Due to budget cuts, the state of New Hampshire has laid off eight full-time fire tower wardens and has offered them part-time work, and only on days when the risk of fire is greatest.
Brad Simpkins, interim director of the state Division of Forests and Lands tells The Eagle-Tribune he hopes that’s enough to protect forests, structures and people.
The layoffs took effect March 31. This means the 15 state-run fire towers — a 16th tower is run by Moultonborough — won’t be staffed during low and moderate fire danger days.
Simpkins said the state also has an air patrol on the lookout for fires.
Wally Eaton, who used to work full time at the Derry tower, now works part time without benefits. He says this is the most dangerous time of the year for fires.
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Information from: The Eagle-Tribune
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