HALF a caravan, household appliances and general household waste were among more than nine truck-loads of rubbish Forestry Corporation of NSW cleared out of Blenheim State Forest near Oberon this week.
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Forestry Corporation’s Regional Manager Jason Molkentin said the rubbish had been illegally dumped in the forest and called on the community to report suspicious activity.
“Illegal dumping is not only ruining the forest experience for many of our visitors, but it can also put other community members and wildlife at genuine risk if it obstructs trails or poses a fire hazard,” Mr Molkentin said.
“Only six months ago we removed six truck-loads of rubbish from this same forest and sent specialised asbestos removal crews out to clean-up some suspected dumped asbestos, so it’s frustrating and disappointing to see people continuing to use this state forest as their dumping ground.
“Blenheim State Forest is free to visit for four wheel driving, camping, bushwalking, orienteering, mountain biking and much more, and we want all visitors to experience a clean and safe forest.
“While we work closely with the Environment Protection Authority, local councils and the Department of Primary Industries to monitor forests and share information about suspicious activity, and we also regularly clean up dumped rubbish, illegal dumping is an issue the whole community can help us tackle.
“We encourage all forest users to help us keep an eye on the forest by reporting anything suspicious they notice while exploring the forest.
“If you do find any illegally dumped materials, you can report it to the Environment Line on 131 555, Forestry Corporation’s Bathurst office on 6331 2044, or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
“We have worked with some wonderful community groups across the Central West who have volunteered their time to clean up illegally dumped rubbish in state forests, so we know illegal dumping is an issue the community is keen to work with us on.”
For more information about visiting State forests, visit www.forestrycorporation.com.au.