State Forest areas near Wauchope and Old Bar will be burnt to reduce fire hazards. 

This follows a program of burns undertaken since Easter, including hazard reduction burning in Lorne, Johns River and Lansdowne State forests.

Protection forester Mick Wilson said the current weather forecasts were ideal for the program to recommence.

 “The cool dry weather is an opportunity to restart our burning program aimed at protecting the community and our forests,” Mr Wilson said.

Forestry staff have prepared burn plans this year for around 25,000 hectares within the State Forests of the Mid-North Coast and use sophisticated equipment and old school bush-craft to pick the right times to burn.

“The burns will be mild and patchy and will continue for a few weeks,” he said.

“Burning in the cooler months ensures that environmental impacts are low, forest health is improved and the community is protected ahead of the next fire season.

“Hazard reduction burns will be carefully monitored to ensure they stay within cleared containment lines, and people should stay away from any burning or recently burnt areas for their own safety.”

Motorists should also take particular care when driving in smoky conditions, he said.

The hazard reduction burns will all be visible on the Fires Near Me app as planned events.

For more information, contact the Forestry Corporation Wauchope Office on 6585 3744.