Forestry Corporation of NSW will commence hazard reduction burns tomorrow (Wednesday) on the NSW mid north coast.

State Forest areas near Johns River and Eungai Creek will be burnt to reduce fire hazards.  This follows a program of burns undertaken since Easter, including hazard reduction burning in Lorne, Johns River and Lansdowne State forests.

“The cool dry weather has presented an opportunity to restart our burning program aimed at protecting the community and our forests,” said Protection Forester Mick Wilson.

Forestry Corporation staff have prepared burn plans this year for around 25,000 hectares within the State forests of the mid north coast.  Sophisticated laser imagery (LIDAR) is used to detect high fuel loads, while monitoring of weather and fuel moistures indicate the right times to burn.

“This week, Forestry Corporation will commence 4,500 hectares of planned hazard reduction burns in Lansdowne and Tamban State forests.  The burns will be mild and patchy and will continue for some weeks.  Burning in the cooler months ensures that environmental impacts are low, forest health is enhanced and the community is protected ahead of the next fire season,” said Mr Wilson.

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.

The hazard reduction burns will all be visible on the “Fires Near Me” app as planned events.

Media contact: Joanna Bodley 0427 939 543