Council's Director of City Development, Phil Costello, said council has recently become aware of the ongoing vandalism and treats tree and vegetation vandalism seriously.

"Deliberate tree or vegetation vandalism, no matter how minor, has a significant impact on the local environment and is contrary to the values of the greater community," Mr Costello said.

"Vegetation growing on dune systems protects nearby infrastructure from erosion and provides crucial habitat for many endemic animal species.

Read more:

"Coastal dunes provide very important protection against coastal hazards such as wind erosion, excessive wave action and tidal overruns during storm events."

Mr Costello said that "any assistance from members of the public would be greatly appreciated and rewards are on offer where the information provided may lead to the identification of the individuals responsible".

Council is encouraging residents to take an active approach in understanding the need for coastal areas to remain in a natural vegetated condition and assist us to protect not only the natural environment, but in the longer-term people's homes and properties.

In accordance with Council's Shoalhaven Tree and Vegetation Vandalism Prevention Policy, reports of vandalism can be made online, by phone or in person.

Do you have something to say about an issue? Send a letter to the editor. Click here for the South Coast Register, and here for the Ulladulla Times.