Hazard reduction burns in Illawarra Escarpment State Conservation Area

The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is planning a hazard reduction burn in the Illawarra Escarpment State Conservation Area (IESCA) Tuesday 20 April, weather permitting.

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NPWS Branch Director Kane Weeks said that the planned 8-hectare burn will go ahead in an area adjacent to the M1 Motorway just north of Mt Ousley.

“The burn is in a strategic location. It aims to protect both park visitors and residential assets in nearby areas by limiting the potential spread of wildfire into the north Wollongong area,” Mr Weeks said.

“To ensure visitor safety while the burn is underway, the central section of IESCA from Old Mountain Road and Upper Escarpment Fire Trail, between Bulli Pass and Bellambie Creek will be closed. It is anticipated that the planned burn may produce visible smoke that could affect the Illawarra area,” said Mr Weeks.

“Motorists on the M1, Bulli Pass and surrounding roads are reminded to drive to conditions and observe any warning signs or directions from fire crews or road traffic controllers. Changed traffic conditions will be in place on the M1.

“Depending on conditions, other burns may also be carried out in the region next week so smoke may be visible in the area for several days. We thank our neighbours and visitors to the region for their understanding.

“People with asthma or who are susceptible to respiratory problems are advised to keep clear of the area or stay indoors.”

“The hazard reduction burn will be a joint operation between NPWS and the NSW Rural Fire Service.

“All park and trail closures will be listed on the NPWS Alerts website,” Mr Weeks said.

The IESCA burn is one of twelve hazard reductions the NPWS has planned in the Illawarra Highlands Area this autumn. They are just some of the many hazard reduction operations undertaken by NPWS across NSW each year.

For health information relating to smoke from bush fires and hazard reduction burning, visit NSW Health or the Asthma Foundation.

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