Smoke warning

By Kath Gannaway
MOTORISTS are being warned of possible smoke hazards resulting from Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE) burn-offs over autumn.
Project manager David Nugent said autumn burning of fuel break slash heaps was expected to raise smoke on remote ridge lines as construction continues on the fuel break network around Melbourne’s water catchments.
Mr Nugent said good progress was being made on work around the Upper Yarra and Thomson catchments with contractors taking care to retain high value habitat areas.
“Motorists are reminded that heavy machinery will operate generally between 7am and 5pm weekdays and burning of slash heaps is also under way in most break areas,” Mr Nugent said.
“Smoke will be generated in local areas and possibly over nearby roads. Drivers are urged to slow down, turn on their headlights and heed all traffic controls and signs in these areas.”
The Reefton Spur Road Burning of slash heaps will take place on the Reefton Spur Road in the coming weeks.
Conditions are suitable for contractors to undertake mulching of residue along the Boundary Road fuel break near Reefton.
“Our recent mulching trial of 2.8km of fuel breaks at Mt Disappointment achieved good results in the Wallaby Creek catchment in Kinglake National Park, and Boundary Road is another suitable site,” Mr Nugent said.
The fuel break project work also includes some debris being retained as firewood.
A major stockpile for safe public access had been set up at the Starvation Creek Road near Warburton.
About 500 tonnes of firewood from Yarra State Forest is available for community use under DSE permits.
Firewood permits, maps and access details to applicants and permit holders can be sourced at DSE’s Powelltown, Broadford and Marysville offices.
For further information on the Strategic Catchment Fuel Break Project visit www.dse.vic.gov.au/fire or call the DSE on 13 61 86.