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Rubbish Dumped In State Forests Damages Environment

Rubbish dumping in state forests is becoming a serious and damaging threat to our local environment.

By Department of Primary Industries - 11th November 2004 - Back to News

Forest Rangers with the Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE) are reporting a huge increase in the dumping of old car bodies, general household rubbish, chemicals and other waste that is polluting both the beauty of the bush and the waterways.

Forest Ranger at Heyfield DSE, Fred Nicholson is appalled by the lazy and uncaring attitude shown by the people that leave dangerous rubbish in the bush.

"We cannot understand why anyone would do this, instead of taking their rubbish to the nearest tip and disposing of it responsibly and carefully," Mr Nicholson said.

"The sort of rubbish that we are having to clean up is toxic to our waterways, is filthy to look at, attracts vermin like wild dogs and cats and has the potential to seriously harm our native flora and fauna."

The dumping of non-native vegetation in the forest can have devastating effects on our plant and animal populations, with its potential to sprout or seed and introduce exotic plants into native forest.

"Cleaning up after these people is taking resources away from more constructive work in the forest such as track maintenance, weed control and fire prevention," Mr Nicholson said.

There is no need to dump rubbish in the bush and spoil it for everyone else. The local tip is the place to take your household and garden rubbish. Car bodies should be taken to recyclers where they can be disposed of appropriately and safely.

"We have had tremendous support with our clean up from the local Heyfield Recycling company, which will take old cars for free any day of the week except Sunday."

DSE Forest Rangers have the power to issue on the spot fines and to refer cases to the courts if they catch anyone illegally dumping rubbish in state forests. They can often identify the perpetrators by a thorough search of the rubbish for personal items and paperwork.

Members of the public are urged to contact their local DSE office or the police if they see anyone dumping rubbish illegally.

DSE officers will be conducting extra patrols in areas known for rubbish dumping.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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