UPDATE: An arrest has been made in relation to these fires. Unity RCMP have charged Logan Sieben of Macklin. The suspect will return to Unity Provincial Court on November 18, 2024, at 10:00 a.m.
Concern continues to mount as hay bale fires have consumed the efforts of the volunteer fire crews in Macklin since July 28.
The month-long assault on livestock feed as ag producers prepare for winter has seen about 29 fires including an attack on standing crop. Twenty-two of the fires required the fire department to send out crews; in one instance, support was needed from a neighbouring fire department.
Fire chief Justin Bast who has been serving the area for nearly three decades says, “I don’t know if there is a reason why, I don’t know if there is an answer.”
Corporate community supporters have combined to post a reward of $26,500 for tips leading to an arrest.
“It takes resources away if there is a real emergency. It’s taxing on the department. We are volunteers. People have to leave work. Employers are losing their employees for several hours every day.”
Bast says community members need to keep their eyes open.
“We have asked our farmers to have their discers hooked up (to make fire breaks), water available, and be ready.”
Anyone with information is asked to call the Unity RCMP at 310-RCMP.
