Two popular fossicking sites in Vulcan State Forest near Oberon are being assessed by Forestry Corporation to ensure the areas are safe for visitors.

Forestry Corporation has recently noticed increased disturbance by fossicking activities near Blue Hill Quarry and Sapphire Bend.

Excessive digging has destabilised plantation trees, while tunnelling into vertical rock faces poses a safety risk.

The safety assessments in these areas may result in some areas of Vulcan State Forest being closed until they are made safe.

Stewardship and Fire Manager Tijmen Klootwijk said fossicking is allowed in state forests in NSW with a permit, but a requirement of the permit is to ensure the environment and safety of forest visitors is protected.

“The Oberon region has many great fossicking sites in state forests that are very popular with families and hobbyists,” Mr Klootwijk said.

“Permit holders must comply with relevant legislation to ensure the protection of the natural environment and the safety of forest visitors. Fossickers must ensure no more than one cubic metre of soil, rock or material is disturbed and that all materials disturbed or removed are replaced before they leave state forests.

“Fossickers must also follow safety instructions signposted within the forests. These may include restrictions due to forestry operations, advice of heavy vehicle movements on forest roads or identification of areas that are closed.

“Another thing to note is that quarries in State forests are always closed for public access and fossicking,” he said.

Forest closure notices are posted on the Forestry Corporation website along with more information on how to safely fossick in state forests.  

Find out more about Forestry Corporation at www.forestrycorporation.com.au