PROVIDING FOR ASSISTANCE TO
THE MINNESOTA INTERAGENCY FIRE CENTER

I, TIM PAWLENTY, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF MINNESOTA, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and applicable laws, including Minnesota Statutes 2004, Section 221.0269, do hereby issue this emergency executive order:

WHEREAS, a wildfire over 70 acres in size in Beltrami County is threatening property and a major pipeline in the vicinity of Bemidji; and

WHEREAS, the fire danger rating is very high in central Minnesota and is expected to remain very high for the next few days;

WHEREAS, state agencies, the State Emergency Operations Center, the DNR, and the Minnesota Interagency Fire Center (MIFC) do not have adequate aviation resources for widespread wildfire suppression; and

WHEREAS, MIFC has requested fire suppression assets from the Minnesota National Guard.

NOW, THEREFORE, I hereby order that:

1.  The Adjutant General of Minnesota orders to state active duty on or about August 6, 2005, in the service of the State, such personnel and equipment of the military forces of the state as required and for such a period of time as necessary to assist and support wildfire suppression in central Minnesota. 

2. The Adjutant General is authorized to purchase, lease or contract goods or services necessary to accomplish the mission.

3. The cost of subsistence, transportation, fuel, pay and allowances of said individuals shall be defrayed from the general fund of the State, as provided for in Minnesota Statutes 2002, Sections 192.49, subd. 1; 192.52 and 192.54. 

Pursuant to Minnesota Statutes 2004, Section 4.035, subdivision 2, this Order is effective immediately and shall remain in effect until such date as elements of the military forces of the State are no longer required.