About 4,000 hectares of national parks in the north west are scheduled for hazard reduction burns next week.
The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) will take advantage of the forecast favourable weather conditions to try to complete the burns before the Easter break.
NPWS Barwon Area Manager, Marty Linehan, said the burning program while large, should not impact local communities.
“Burns are planned across six reserves including:
- Mount Kaputar National Park
- Bingara State Conservation Area
- Terry Hie Hie Aboriginal Area
- Bullala National Park
- Terry Hie Hie Aboriginal Area
- Moema National Park
“We have planned these burns to occur simultaneously to take the best advantage of our available resources including the helicopter,” Mr Linehan said.
“No visitor areas within Mount Kaputar NP will be closed. However the Plagyan portion of the reserve will be closed to all visitors, including horse-riders.
“The burn at Bingara State Conservation Area, is likely to be the most visible and residents in town will notice smoke, although forecast wind predictions should minimise any impact.
“Staff will continue to control the burn areas as long as necessary.
“The operation will only be conducted if the weather conditions are right on the day.
“People with asthma or who are susceptible to respiratory problems are advised to keep clear of the area or stay indoors,” Mr Linehan said.
For health information relating to smoke from bush fires and hazard reduction burning, visit or the .
More information on hazard reduction activities, visit the and the Rural Fire Service “Fires near me” App.
