Forestry Corporation of NSW is reminding snowy and Riverina area residents that a selection of high conservation value State forests remain closed for public firewood collection.

Tumut, Murraguldrie and Bungongo State Forest include forest types that support endangered ecological communities within them, said Fire and Stewardship Supervisor, Anthony Post .

“A number of areas within these forests are protected for their ecological values, and can be damaged through unchecked removal of fallen timber for firewood,” Mr Post said.

“If you are collecting firewood in the Tumut, Batlow, Tumbarumba, Wagga Wagga, Gundagai and Holbrook areas, please avoid these forests.

“The forests are patrolled and under surveillance with cameras in place; penalties apply for people caught collecting firewood from these areas.”

“Permits are available for firewood collection in other local forests. These can be obtained online.”

To find out more about the rules and guidelines on collecting firewood from State forests, please visit www.forestrycorporation.com.au/firewood

Media contact: Rod Campbell