Fuel reduction burns planned for RJ Chambers Reserve
Council in partnership with the CFA will undertake fuel reduction burns in the RJ Chambers Flora and Fauna Reserve in Pakenham Upper, from Monday 8 May, weather conditions permitting.
The planned burn will be carried out by the CFA as part of a prescribed burning program to reduce fuel loads on Council-owned land, including wire grass, bark and leaf litter, and will cover approximately four hectares of land.
Council’s Emergency Management Coordinator Janette Schimleck said prescribed burning during the cooler months reduces the amount of ground vegetation and the subsequent risk of bushfires that could cause greater damage later in the season.
“Prescribed burns are an effective way of reducing fuel loads and mitigating bushfire risk to Council-owned land and neighbouring properties. Each burn we carry out means we are better prepared for the fire season,” Ms Schimleck said.
“Working with CFA is a vital part of the planned burning program to make sure that we are using local knowledge to manage bushfire risk, while also factoring in local environmental and cultural heritage considerations to deliver maximum benefit to the community.”
Visual messaging boards advising residents of the burn will be positioned at both ends of Bourkes Creek Road in Emerald/Dewhurst and Pakenham Upper. The burn will be postponed if weather conditions are unfavourable.
For more information, visit Fire, flood and emergencies.