Planned burning has reduced the bushfire risk now that the Forestry Corporation of NSW has completed its annual program of cool burning across central west NSW to reduce the forest fuel load and the risk and impact of summer bushfires. Source: Timberbiz
The hazard reduction burning program is an essential part of Forestry Corporation’s bushfire management program and has seen a total of 1300 hectares burnt across Lidsdale, Sunny Corner, Lowes Mount and Pennsylvania State Forests.
The organisation has a further 2400 hectares of burning planned as part of the pine plantation establishment process.
Silviculture Manager, Mike Freeman, said that the Forestry Corporation has carefully planned the annual burning program and is pleased with the results.
“Our professionally trained firefighting workforce has coordinated the strategic burning program to protect multi-million dollar pine plantations, mountain bike facilities and neighbouring farmland,” Mr Freeman said.
“Planning hazard reduction burning is complex, but with precise fire science and monitoring we have pinpointed the right times and places to get some nice low intensity burns happening ahead of fire season. All hazard reduction burns carried out by Forestry Corporation are visible on the Rural Fire Service’s Fires Near Me app as planned events.”
Fire and Protection Coordinator, Dave Anderson said the hazard reduction burns were an important part of Forestry Corporation’s fire season preparations each year.
“Our main objective is to reduce the intensity and severity of wildfires and protect communities and the environment,” Mr Anderson said. “The 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.”
For more information about hazard reduction burns look up the Rural Fire Service’s Fires Near Me app or visit www.forestrycorporation.com.au
