The raging fires are dramatic for several players in the Quebec tourism industry. While the fishing season is in full swing, 350 outfitters, more than two-thirds of those in the province, are affected by the forest access ban.
According to the president and CEO of the Fédération des pourvoiries du Québec, such a vast prohibition zone is unheard of.
“They’re all empty, even though it’s high season. This is the beginning of walleye and trout fishing, there is bear hunting. A lot of American customers were expected,” laments Dominic Dugré.
Financial losses have already occurred and could be disastrous if the situation continues for several weeks or months.
“There are a bunch of forest fires out of control in the middle of the forest, and that’s where we are located, in the middle of the forest. Outfitters are at risk of seeing their facilities burn or, otherwise, of being without activity for weeks,” worries Mr. Dugré, describing the situation as “very anxiety-provoking”.
Outfitters’ insurance typically covers building destruction, but not revenue loss associated with forced closures, he points out. According to Mr. Dugré, some contractors wonder why their access roads are closed when there is no fire for tens of kilometers around. However, the majority of them understand the prevention imperative behind this measure.
Campsites evacuated
On the side of the Society of Outdoor Establishments of Quebec (SEPAQ), 13 reserves, parks and centers have been evacuated in the last few days. This represents 1850 campsites. No question of welcoming anyone there until further notice. SEPAQ also recommends avoiding all of its other sites.
The organization has relaxed the terms of cancellation or postponement of stays, so that everyone can be reimbursed free of charge. “We go there day by day. Everyone is crossing their fingers for the rain to fall,” comments Simon Boivin, media relations manager for SEPAQ.
In certain tourist regions very oriented towards the outdoors, the hour is with anguish.
“We hope that there is no business that closes permanently as a result of this,” says the assistant general manager of Tourisme Mauricie, Lyne Rivard. She recommends vacationers call ahead to find out if their destination is open and safe. She reminds that other types of activities are offered in Mauricie, such as exhibitions and festivals in Shawinigan and Trois-Rivières.
“We receive a lot of phone calls from people who want to know if they can go fishing or go to such and such a place. The answer is often no,” admits the general manager of Tourisme Baie-James, Isabelle Milord. She summons all visitors to respect the instructions, for their safety.