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Dangerous Lack Of Concern By Rubbish Dumpers

Rubbish dumping in state forests continues to be a serious and damaging threat to our local environment and an eyesore for those who enjoy, value and care for our forests.

By Department of Sustainability and Environment - 10th June 2005 - Back to News

Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE) Forest Rangers are disgusted with the disrespect for both the environment and other people shown by those who dump their rubbish wherever they please.

Recently a car was found abandoned in a creek and a bag of asbestos sheeting was discovered in the Mount Alfred State forest north of Bairnsdale.

DSE Forest Ranger, Andrew Sharpe said that this type of behaviour is a waste of tax payers' money and a pathetic act of disrespect.

"This rubbishing of our forests not only detracts from the beauty of our bush, but may also result in unhygienic or dangerous conditions for animals and other users of the forest," Mr Sharpe said.

"Cleaning up litter in State forest is an expensive task, one that would be unnecessary if rubbish were properly disposed of in the first place. The cost of cleaning up the mess takes public money away from areas where it could be better used."

This is a timely reminder that any littering in State forest is illegal and carries heavy penalties.

All household rubbish should be taken to council refuse stations and garden clippings can be composted. Car bodies can be disposed of at the larger tips free of charge.

Dumping of rubbish and other matter is punishable by penalties of up to $6000 and/or one month’s imprisonment, depending on the offence.

Other forest offences can be punishable with fines of up to $5000 or 12 months imprisonment.

The Department has increased its presence in forest areas, conducting regular patrols and will prosecute anyone found committing these types of offences.

"I would hope that the majority of the public feels the same way as we do about appreciating the great natural environment we live in and will agree that such behaviour is unacceptable," Mr Sharpe said.

DSE staff always appreciate information on suspicious or undesirable behaviour in state forest areas.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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