Local Land Services has reported theft of firewood from travelling stock reserves around Boorowa and Yass. Photo: Local Land Services.
Local Land Services says it will be monitoring its travelling stock reserves after receiving reports of people illegally taking firewood from sites around Boorowa and Yass.
Anyone caught removing timber or disturbing vegetation – alive or dead – from a reserve can be fined up to $5500 under the Local Land Services Act 2013.
“We all enjoy a nice fire when it gets cold, but it is important you source your wood legally,” said Chris Harris, South East Local Land Services Yass and Boorowa area local manager.
The rules help protect the integrity of the network of travelling stock reserves, which is recognised as an asset of state significance with agricultural, social, cultural and ecological values, according to Local Land Services.
“We need to make sure there is a clear understanding in the community about the importance of travelling stock reserves and their long-term viability,” said Mr Harris.
Travelling stock reserves are dedicated areas of crown land for travelling stock. They are also an extremely important refuge for many rare and endangered native plants. Fallen logs and standing dead wood can be part of their habitat.
Decaying timber and leaf litter is also important in the process of nutrient recycling back into the soil.
Members of the public are asked to report any illegal activity to Local Land Services on 1300 795 299, or to contact NSW Police on 131 444.
Members of the public can apply for a permit to collect firewood from selected state forests. Contact 1300 655 687 for details, or visit Forestry Corporation of NSW for further details.
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