Forestry Corporation of NSW has commenced hazard reduction burns today (Tuesday, April 17) in forests south of Wauchope and west of Elands.
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The burn near Wauchope is at Burrawan State Forest off the Bago Road near the famous Old Bottlebutt tree.
These areas are being targeted with the intention of reducing potential fuel hazards. This follows a program of burns undertaken since Easter, including hazard reduction burning in Lorne, Johns River and Lansdowne State Forests.
Protection forester Mick Wilson said the onset of autumn has presented an opportunity to kick off their burning program, aimed at protecting the community as well as some young plantations.
Forestry staff have prepared burn plans for around 25,000 hectares this year within the state forests of the Mid North Coast.
Sophisticated laser imagery (LIDAR) is used to detect areas carrying high fuel loads, while monitoring of weather and fuel moistures allow for identification of trends which indicate the right times to burn.
“By the end of this week, Forestry will have completed nearly 1500 hectares of hazard reduction burns,” said Mr Wilson.
“Burning in the cooler months ensures that environmental impacts are low, forest health is enhanced and the community is protected ahead of the next fire season.”
Hazard reduction burns will be carefully monitored to ensure they stay within cleared containment lines, and people should stay away from any burning or recently burnt areas for their own safety.
Motorists should also take particular care when driving in smoky conditions.
Forestry Corp hazard reduction burns will all be visible on the “Fires Near Me” app as planned events.
You can also go to https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/fire-information/fires-near-me
For more information about hazard reduction burns, contact the Forestry Corporation Wauchope office on 6585 3744.