THE NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) will soon begin its autumn program of fuel reduction and ecological burning in the Shoalhaven.
NPWS area manager Graham Bush said four burns were proposed in the Southern Highlands area over the coming months, if forecasted conditions remained favourable.
“All the planning and preparation has been completed for the four burns which should commence in the next couple of weeks and continue as long as weather conditions allow over autumn,” Mr Bush said.
“Two planned burns are to the west of Kangaroo Valley in the Tallowa Dam and Budgong sections of Morton National Park.
“The primary purpose of these burns is to reduce fuel loads to protect the nearby Kangaroo Valley township and surrounding properties. They will add to the mosaic of areas burnt in previous seasons in adjoining areas.
“The third prescribed burn is planned for a section of Morton National Park south of Bungonia National Park. The remaining burn is planned for the Fitzroy Falls area of Morton National Park.
“All up, these burns will treat around 2000 hectares and will not only assist in reducing fuels but will also have ecological benefits.
“The NPWS will seek to use every available opportunity when the weather allows safe and effective fuel reduction burning,” Mr Bush said.
Between July 1, 2012, and February 28, 2013, NPWS completed 136 prescribed burns, treating an area of 36,576 hectares.
The NPWS said every effort would be made to minimise the impact of smoke, however it urged motorists to take basic precautions and drive to the conditions.
It said the risk to properties during these burns would be low, but urged nearby residents to ensure their properties were well prepared.