Roadside Firewood Collection Prohibited

-FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE-
25 June 2019
Roadside firewood collection prohibited
Winter has arrived, and Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council (CGRC) residents are being reminded that the collection of firewood from all roadsides across the Council Region is prohibited.
CGRC Manager of Regulatory Services Mr Glen McAtear said “these measures are in place to protect our unique environment, and prevent the further degradation of roadside vegetation and to preserve rare plant and animal species within our Shire.”
“Dead timber, including standing dead trees, fallen logs, branches and stumps, play an important role by providing habitat for a diverse range of native fauna species at various times throughout the year,” Mr McAtear added.
Council would like to make residents aware that the following activities are prohibited without prior authorisation in any roadside reserve area:
Collection of firewood.
Collection of rock, sand, gravel, dirt or any vegetative material.
Burning, clearing, grading, ploughing or any disturbance to soil or vegetation.
Trimming or lopping of trees or other vegetation.
If residents are unsure if their planned roadside activities are prohibited, they are advised to check with Council by calling 1300 459 689.
The same restrictions also apply to Crown Reserve, Travelling Stock Routes and State Forests. “Council’s roadsides and reserves are often the last refuge of intact remnant woodlands and are of high conservation status. By conserving these small areas of existing vegetation, Council hopes to maintain viable habitat corridors for native fauna and maintain and enhance the richness of flora and fauna in our environment. Firewood on public land can only be collected and removed under a permit from the relevant agency. This may be the RMS, NSW State Forestry, Local Land Services or Council.”
Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council, however, does not issue permits.
Acting General Manager, Phil McMurray said “Council does not permit the felling of trees or the collection of firewood, including fallen timber, from Council’s roadsides or reserves. Logs, leaf litter, fallen timber and rocks left on the ground provide important habitat for our native fauna.”
“Council is committed to providing habitat for native fauna, and also protecting road users. The collection of firewood from road sides can prove to be a dangerous practice for both the wood collector and motorists,” Mr McMurray added.
Council can issue significant fines to anyone caught collecting wood from the side of the road and cutting down a tree may result in prosecution.
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