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Penalties For Illegal Harvesting Of Firewood In Mullungdung

Two men from Robertsons Beach, south of Yarram were convicted in Sale Magistrates Court recently for the illegal cutting and felling of forest produce for firewood in the Mullungdung State Forest.

By Department of Sustainability - 16th May 2011 - Back to News

Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE) Forest Officers found the men in possession of a large amount of forest produce - neither of the men had an authority to possess the produce.

The men pleaded guilty to felling trees and removing firewood from the forest without permits or authority. They each received a $2000 fine and were ordered to pay the department's costs of $146.85.

DSE Forest Manager, Jessica Cleaver said there have been a number of instances recently where trees have been illegally felled for firewood collection.

"With the onset of cold weather and the need to collect firewood, DSE staff remind the public that a permit is required to cut firewood in State Forest areas. The felling of standing trees is not permitted under any circumstances," Ms Cleaver said.

DSE controls the amount of firewood collected and the areas that are available for collection to help to ensure the sustainable management of Victoria's forests.

The collection and removal of firewood from State forests for domestic use requires a licence or permit issued by DSE or an agent acting on behalf of DSE.

"Only fallen timber can be collected – standing trees must never be cut down as, both living and dead, they provide habitat for a variety of birds, mammals and reptiles," Ms Cleaver said.

"This recent court case is a timely reminder that DSE staff patrol our forests and enforce forest regulations and that substantial penalties can be applied."

Firewood permits and maps of where to collect your firewood lawfully can be obtained from the Heyfield DSE Office on 5139 7777 or the Yarram DSE Office on 5183 9100 and from some local retail outlets.

For further information on where to obtain permits to collect firewood, please contact the DSE Customer Service Centre on 136186 or visit the DSE website: www.dse.vic.gov.au

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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