Are you looking for something to do while self isolating?
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Well with some good timing, Newnes State Forest has now been reopened to public visitors, however people are asked to exercise caution when visiting the bushfire affected forest.
The forest was burnt extensively in the 2019-2020 Gospers Mountain bushfire and while Ben Bullen and Wolgan State forests were also affected, they remain closed at this stage.
The Rural Fire Service and Forestry Corporation of NSW, with assistance from National Parks and Wildlife Service, Greater Lithgow Council and the Department of Defence, carried out extensive work under the 'Make Good, Make Safe' program to clear the main roads and tracks of fallen trees and branches.
"The community are again welcomed to visit the forest, however people should be aware that burnt forests will still carry some risks," Forestry Corporation Stewardship Coordinator Melanie Klootwijk said.
"We ask people to exercise caution when visiting, particularly as they move away from main thoroughfares.
"There are still hazards, and people need to be aware and alert as they move through the forest.
"The impact of the bushfire has also created environmental hazards, such as limited groundcover and increased erosion and sedimentation."
Visitors are also asked to respect the regrowing forest, forest rules and other users as they return.
"Forestry Corporation and police will be monitoring Newnes State Forest to make sure people are behaving appropriately," Ms Klootwijk said.
"If visitor behaviour threatens the environment's recovery, we will consider closing the forest again."
Firewood collection is not allowed in any Central Tablelands State forest currently, including Newnes State forest. When the solid fuel fire ban is lifted alternate areas will be made available for firewood collection.
Visitors should check the Forestry Corporation website www.forestrycorporation.com.au for any closures or notices before setting out for a trip to a State forest.
People can report any hazards they come across to info@fcnsw.com.au.
Want to keep up to date with Lithgow news? Sign up to our newsletter and breaking news alerts here:
