Province asks for public information as investigation into Upper Tantallon wildfire continue

CITYnews halifax / By Mark Hodgins

More than one year after a wildfire ravaged parts of Upper Tantallon and Hammonds Plains, the province is turning to the public for help in its ongoing investigation.

“The Department of Natural Resources and Renewables has gathered a considerable amount of information, including from the public, but has exhausted other avenues in investigating potential violations of the Forests Act,” read a news release from the province.

The department says its investigation “can only continue if more information comes to light.”

Charges can be laid under the Forests Act up to two years from the date of an offence. The wildfire started on May 28, 2023, and destroyed 151 homes.

“Charges are only laid if there is sufficient evidence to secure a conviction,” the release said. “There is a high bar for what can be used as evidence in court.”

Anyone with new information is asked to call the department at 1-800-565-2224.