NATURAL Resources South East has warned local residents to keep any trees, either dead or alive, intact to avoid facing fines after seeing an increase in illegal firewood harvesting.
Senior investigations and compliance officer Drew Laslett said even dead trees provide essential breeding habitat for many species of native birds and animals.
“We’ve recently issued three fines to residents of up to $500 each for cutting wood in local reserves,” he said.
“Dead standing trees with a circumference of two metres or more are protected across most of the region and trees of this size are potential habitat for the endangered red tailed black cockatoo.
“Anyone cutting down a tree of this size also risks a fine of up to $800.”
Local councils currently manage the collection of firewood from roadsides with only fallen, dead timber to be taken by those who have a permit.
“Many councils also have protected areas where firewood collection is not permitted,” Mr Laslett said.
“We want to encourage people to do the right thing, keep habitat unharmed and avoid fines.”
To report illegal wood cutting on roadsides contact the relevant council or the Natural Resources Centre on 8735 1177 to report woodcutting on national parks and reserves.
