Riviera Maya, Q.R. — Forest fire season for the state of Quintana Roo has begun with brigades and equipment being tested.
The Comité Estatal de Prevención, Control y Combate de Incendios Forestales 2019 en Quintana Roo has started operations in Quintana Roo with the administration of equipment tools for the 26 rural forestry brigades.
“Without conservation, we are destined to fail and that is why we promote public policies for its preservation,” said Governor Carlos Joaquín.
Alfredo Arellano Guillermo, the secretary of Ecology and Environment, says that the federal government values the riches of the Quintana Roo rainforests and its proper management and recognizes the environmental services provided by our forests worldwide.
The forest fire committee, which is responsible for the entire state, is composed of the National Forestry Commission, the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, the Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection, the National Commission of Natural Protected Areas and the National Water Commission.
They say that they want to reduce the number of incidents this season, encouraging citizens to report fires to 911.
Javier May, head of protection for the National Forestry Commission, explained that in Quintana Roo there are 137 official fire fighters and 260 rural brigadistas from the Secretariat of Ecology and Environment.
He reports that last year, the state combated 35 forest fires that left an affected area of just over 6,800 hectares. They also reported 13 flyovers to help support firefighters on the ground.
