FOREST PROTECTION BRANCH 



'T'HE Forest Protection Branch is comprised of two Sections: Forest Protection, 

 -'- with headquarters in Toronto; and Air Service, with headquarters in Sault Ste. 

 Marie. The responsibilities and functions of the Branch are as follows: 



1. Forest Fire Control Organization, staff distribution, fire district boundaries, 

 fire warden system. 



2. Fire Control Planning, preparation and implementation of fire control plans. 



3. Fire Prevention, through removal of hazards, construction of fire guards, and 

 travel, fire and work permits. Warnings to the public of existing and impend- 

 ing fire danger. Co-operation with Department of Transport, Railways, Indian 

 Affairs Branch, Woods Operators and other forest users in preventing, report- 

 ing and suppressing fires. 



4. Detection of forest fires by a system of towers and aircraft patrols, 



5. Training of staff, woods industry employees and other co-operators in fire 

 suppression techniques. 



6. The use of prescribed burning to eliminate hazards, and for various forest 

 management purposes. 



7. Forest fire suppression by co-ordinating movement of resources between 

 regions as required and emergency arrangements. 



8. Fire statistics and reports. 



9. Radio communications for fire control and all other Department requirements. 



10. Pest Control by prevention of damage to trees caused by insects, disease and 

 small mammals on all lands under Department management. 



11. Maintenance and operation of the aircraft fleet in compliance with Depart- 

 ment of Transport Regulations and to provide for the utmost safety. Selection 

 of all technical staff including pilots and engineers. Leasing and disposition 

 of helicopters. 



12. Plant and equipment program for the Department including all building and 

 improvement projects, major equipment including vehicles. Vehicle and 

 buUding records, maintenance procedures, specifications, licensing and insur- 

 ance. Equipment development. 



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