The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) has scheduled a hazard reduction burn in Dharug National Park on Friday 12 and Saturday 13 April weather permitting.
NPWS Area Manager Peta Norris said the burn near Oyster Shell Road, Lower Mangrove, is part of an ongoing fire management strategy to help protect the Park and to limit the potential spread of wildfire to surrounding properties.
“The 560 hectare burn will take place over 2 days, starting at about 10am on Friday 12 April with crews working into the evening, before finishing up on Saturday 13 April depending on the weather,” Ms Norris said.
“During the burn the Eastern Commission Trail will be closed.
“Smoke may affect Oyster Shell Road, Lower Mangrove and fire vehicles will be using this road so drivers are warned to take care and drive to conditions.
“People with asthma or who are susceptible to respiratory problems are advised to keep clear of the area or stay indoors close windows and doors and follow their health plan,” Ms Norris said.
This hazard reduction burn was been approved by the Gosford Bushfire Management Committee, which is made up of local bushfire experts to identify and address local bushfire risks. NPWS will be assisted by the Rural Fire Service during the burn.
People with known health conditions should sign up to get air quality reports, forecasts and alerts via email or SMS and check the RFS website for advice and for regular updates on planned burns.
The NPWS conducts controlled burns for a range of purposes, including asset protection, strategic fire control, maintenance of biodiversity and research.
This burn is one of many hazard reduction operations undertaken by NPWS across NSW each year, many with assistance from the RFS and Fire and Rescue NSW.
They are part of the NSW Government’s 6-year $76 million package to boost bushfire preparedness and double hazard reduction in the State’s national parks.
For health information relating to smoke from bush fires and hazard reduction burning, visit the NSW Health website or the Asthma Foundation.
More information on hazard reduction activities go to the NSW Rural Fire Service website and the RFS ‘Fires Near Me’ app.
