The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) in conjunction with the NSW Rural Fire Service are undertaking a hazard reduction burn in Jervis Bay National Park today, Friday 30 April.
NPWS Shoalhaven Area Manager Michael Phelan said the burn will reduce fuel loads around residential properties and community assets in Vincentia and Bayswood estate.
“By reducing the fuel load in the park, the 8-hectare burn will reduce the impact of wildfire on houses in the area and will protect nearby power transmission lines and the Vincentia Wastewater Treatment Plant.
“Smoke may be visible throughout the day, particularly for residents in Vincentia. If you are vulnerable to smoke, we encourage you to stay indoors and keep your doors and windows closed to reduce exposure.
“The Moona Creek fire trail will be closed to pedestrians and cyclists for the duration of the operational, including the five-day patrol period which will follow the completion of the burn.
“The burn will also assist researchers from the NSW Government’s Saving our Species program who are looking at the fire response of the Pretty Beard Orchid, an endangered native orchid which is found only in the Shoalhaven,” said Mr Phelan.
All burns across NSW will continue to be coordinated with the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) to ensure the impact on the community, including from smoke, are assessed at a regional level.
Details on specific burns will be made available in advance on the Rural Fire Service website, ‘Fires Near Me’ app, and on NPWS Alerts website.
For health information relating to smoke from bush fires and hazard reduction burning, visit NSW Health or the Asthma Foundation.
For up to date information on these, and other, planned hazard reduction activities, visit the Rural Fire Service website.
