The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is encouraging people to have their say on proposed horse-riding opportunities in south east Wollemi National Park before submissions close on 14 March 2021.
NPWS Director David Crust said that following strong local community interest over many years, the Service has developed a draft management plan that proposes a number of recreational trails in the Wheeny Creek – Mountain Lagoon area.
“This draft plan proposes how we will assess, rationalise and formalise horse-riding trails in this area,” said Mr Crust.
“There is a long history of horse riding in the Wheeny Creek – Mountain Lagoon area and under this draft plan riders continue to have a strong connection to this landscape.
“We’re proposing to formalise a series of low-impact riding trails that essentially follow existing park management trails.
“Doing so will minimise impacts on threatened species and the conservation values of the area, as well as tie into our existing trail maintenance program.
“The draft plan will ensure we have management arrangements in place to support unique and enjoyable horse-riding opportunities for the community.
“The plan refers only to a 28,000-hectare section of Wollemi National Park, an area in the south east that was not heavily impacted by last summer’s bushfires.
“We welcome feedback on the plan and encourage members of the public and interest groups to make a submission via formal channels so all comments can be recorded and considered,” said Mr Crust.
The public exhibition period for the plan has been extended and submissions now close 14 March 2021.
