A one-day hazard reduction burn is planned for Cumberland State Forest in West Pennant Hills on Wednesday 11 September, weather permitting, to reduce the fire risk to local homes and businesses ahead the upcoming fire season.

Forestry Corporation of NSW’s Cumberland State Forest Ranger Tim Liston said the burn had been carefully planned in collaboration with the Rural Fire Service, with information and updates available on the Hazards Near Me App.

“There’s a narrow window of opportunity to safely complete hazard reduction burns, when it’s not too hot or damp and the wind conditions limit the risk and smoke, and conditions are currently ideal for a small burn in Cumberland State Forest,” Mr Liston said.

“The forest, including Plants Plus Nursery, Café Saligna and Tree Tops Adventure The Hills, will be closed on Wednesday so we can safely carry out the burn.

“Forestry Corporation is a statutory fire authority and our staff are trained and experienced firefighters, and we will also have support from the local Rural Fire Service brigade during the burn.

“We will closely monitor the conditions ahead of reopening on Thursday, but when we reopen visitors will notice blackened trees and undergrowth and may see some areas smouldering or smoking for several weeks.

“We will be keeping a close eye on all the burnt areas until they are fully extinguished, but while the forest will not reopen until it is safe, visitors are advised to stick to the formed roads and trails and stay out of recently burnt areas for the next few weeks.

“The main objective of a hazard reduction burn is to reduce the intensity and severity of wildfires and protect communities and the environment, so if a fire does break out in the forest over summer, it will be easier to contain and much less likely to take hold and threaten homes or businesses.

“We appreciate the support and assistance of Rural Fire Service (RFS) volunteers from brigades in the Hills Shire who are helping out with this hazard reduction burn.”

Forestry Corporation of NSW is an official firefighting authority, responsible for preventing and managing fires in two million hectares of State forests statewide. Forestry Corporation’s headquarters are in Cumberland State Forest.