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NPWS hazard reduction burn tomorrow in Tomaree National Park

Media release: 11 May 2015

The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is planning a hazard reduction burn tomorrow (12/05) in Tomaree National Park, Port Stephens

NPWS Hunter Coast Acting Area Manager Tony DeMamiel said the hazard reduction burn is scheduled as part of a strategic fuel reduction program for Tomaree National Park.

“Tomorrow’s burn will take place on Morna Point headland, west of Boat Harbour township and south of popular One Mile Beach”, Mr DeMamiel said. 

“The burn area and part of the One Mile Beach carpark will be closed to the public and a helicopter will be flying at low levels to observe and carry out aerial incendiary”, he said.

“The burn aims to reduce fire risk to neighbouring residences by lowering fuel loads on the headland, as well as manage biodiversity in Tomaree National Park.

“A number of NPWS & RFS crews will be on hand to manage the burn during the day.

“Residents and motorists in the vicinity of the burn area are advised that, whilst every effort in planning and conducting the burn has been made to minimise the impact of smoke, they should be prepared for smoke in the area.

“Residents should take measures to minimise the impact of smoke on their homes, by closing doors and windows and removing washing, and motorists should drive to conditions.

“The burn in Tomaree National Park is one of a number of hazard reduction burns planned for parks and reserves in the Port Stephens area over the coming months as weather permits, and is just one of the many hazard reduction operations undertaken by NPWS across NSW each year.

“The hazard reduction burn is part of the NSW Government’s $62.5 million package to boost bushfire preparedness and double hazard reduction in the State’s national parks where conditions allow.

“With the assistance of the Enhanced Bushfire Management Program, NPWS plans to burn an average of over 135,000 hectares per year, through more than 800 individual hazard reduction activities.

For more information on planned hazard reduction burns, visit the Rural Fire Service website: www.rfs.nsw.gov.au .   For information about these burns contact the NPWS Hunter Coast Area office. Telephone 02 4984 8200.

 

Map of proposed burn here: https://www.flickr.com/photos/48646673@N07/17513446825/

Contact: Lawrence Orel

Page last updated: 12 May 2015