Many moons ago mention was made about how to manage The Asparagus Fern carpet in the reserves off Stansfield Close. One thought that was touted was to burn it all. Many moons on and permissions are being acquired by LMCC to undertake a controlled burn with Fire and Rescue NSW.
The issue was discussed at the last Progress meeting and LMCC’s Craig Holland who is facilitating the process provided the following response to concerns raised about the impacts on the wildlife and smoke.
There are only positive effects on animals as the hazard reduction burn creates regeneration, which creates more food sources and reduces the monoculture that weeds create. With more food sources (particularly with isolated patches of bushland like Coal Point) more animals are attracted to the area and the food chain is then reinforced. This is very positive. As we are intentionally only burning half of the bushland area, the half not being burnt provides a refuge for the animals. The fire authority don't just throw a match in to the area and walk away. The usual prescribed low intensity burn is usually done in segments. The ones I have seen, they burn a 10m x 5 segment usually downhill (‘cause it burns slower and is more controlled) and wait for that to burn until they move on to the next segment. Very controlled and slow. This gives the animals an opportunity to move.
In terms of smoke, Fire and Rescue NSW will conduct a burn plan for Coal Point, which addresses such issues as wind direction and smoke mainly because of vehicular traffic. Fire and Rescue NSW will give residents notice (at least 7 days) of when the burn is likely, warning residents to close windows, don't wash their clothes and put them out on the line, retract pool covers and move out of the area for the day if someone suffers asthma or a lung condition.
If you’d like more information contact Craig Holland
The issue was discussed at the last Progress meeting and LMCC’s Craig Holland who is facilitating the process provided the following response to concerns raised about the impacts on the wildlife and smoke.
There are only positive effects on animals as the hazard reduction burn creates regeneration, which creates more food sources and reduces the monoculture that weeds create. With more food sources (particularly with isolated patches of bushland like Coal Point) more animals are attracted to the area and the food chain is then reinforced. This is very positive. As we are intentionally only burning half of the bushland area, the half not being burnt provides a refuge for the animals. The fire authority don't just throw a match in to the area and walk away. The usual prescribed low intensity burn is usually done in segments. The ones I have seen, they burn a 10m x 5 segment usually downhill (‘cause it burns slower and is more controlled) and wait for that to burn until they move on to the next segment. Very controlled and slow. This gives the animals an opportunity to move.
In terms of smoke, Fire and Rescue NSW will conduct a burn plan for Coal Point, which addresses such issues as wind direction and smoke mainly because of vehicular traffic. Fire and Rescue NSW will give residents notice (at least 7 days) of when the burn is likely, warning residents to close windows, don't wash their clothes and put them out on the line, retract pool covers and move out of the area for the day if someone suffers asthma or a lung condition.
If you’d like more information contact Craig Holland
| Natural Areas Officer (Bush Fire Mitigation)
Lake Macquarie City Council | P: (02) 49 210 288 | M: 0419483349 | F: (02) 49210351
Lake Macquarie City Council | P: (02) 49 210 288 | M: 0419483349 | F: (02) 49210351
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