Stephen Dawson
Extra state funding to boost the prescribed burning program has been welcomed by the WA timber industry. WA Environment Minister, Stephen Dawson has announced that the forthcoming State Budget will include $22 million over four years for the Enhanced Prescribed Burning Program implemented by the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA). Source: Timberbiz
The announcement has been welcomed by the Forest Industries Federation of WA (FIFWA).
Prescribed burning is essential for protecting communities and important forestry assets, according to FIFWA Acting CEO, Matt Granger.
“Prescribed burning helps reduce fuel loads in forests and the associated risk of catastrophic wildfire,” Mr Granger said. “This vital program helps keep communities safe, and protects both native forests and plantations, key assets for industry.
“Prescribed burning helps maintain healthy forests and this funding will enable DBCA to continue meeting the key performance indicators outlined in the current Forest Management Plan,” he said.
“Jobs and investment in forest industries are threatened when forests and forestry equipment are destroyed by wildfire.
“Prescribed burning complements other bushfire mitigation strategies like mechanical fuel reduction, to make communities safer and protect important assets.”
