The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is conducting a hazard reduction burn in Bournda Nature Reserve today, Friday 16 April.
NPWS South Coast Branch Director Kane Weeks said the planned 131 hectares burn was lit earlier this morning.
“This strategic burn is taking advantage of favorable weather conditions forecast over the coming days to reduce fuel loads in the area and to limit the potential spread of wildfire to surrounding private properties,” Mr Weeks said.
“During the burn, which is expected to run into the weekend, smoke may be visible to motorists on Sapphire Coast Drive and Moncks Road.
“Motorists are advised to drive to conditions and observe all signage and directions from NPWS fire crews.
“All hazard reduction burns across NSW will continue to be coordinated with the Rural Fire Service to ensure the impact on the community, including from smoke, are assessed at a regional level,” Mr Weeks said.
People with asthma or who are susceptible to respiratory conditions are advised to keep clear of the nature reserve or stay indoors.
This burn is one of many NPWS is planning to carry out across the NSW south coast region this autumn, and an example of the many hazard reduction operations undertaken by NPWS across NSW each year.
Details on specific burns will be made available in advance on the Rural Fire Service website, ‘Fires Near Me’ app, and on the 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.
