If you know who is starting all the fires in Macklin, you could collect a reward of $21,500 for turning them in.
According to Macklin & District Fire/Rescue Chief Justin Bast, there have been 27 incidents, of which 21 required a department response.
"It's been taxing for sure. Between these and our regular calls for assistance, we've run more calls since July 29th than we typically do in a year or so; it's been very busy," said Bast. "Bales, ditches, and they have tried to light some standing crop on fire."
In response, some concerned local citizens and the fire board have raised the reward money to help catch the culprit.
"It's not only the call volume, but the after-hours stuff too," said Bast.
He was referring to cleaning the equipment and getting the department back up and ready. It also affects the equipment, which can break and need service.
There is concern the situation could get worse.
"As it gets drier and we move towards harvest season, we are concerned this could become a bigger problem."
So far, the incidents have not required mutual aid from surrounding departments. When it comes to hay bales, they rip them apart to put them out. Bast said it can take upwards of an hour to complete that task.
If you have any information that may lead to the arrest of the suspects, you are encouraged to provide it. You can call Crime Stoppers or the local RCMP detachment.
Read More: Sask Crop Report: Last week in the field - Meridian Source
