It's no secret the unauthorised clearing of vegetation has a major impact on our native flora and fauna.
Our staff are frequently asked to clarify vegetation clearing rules and allowances under conservation agreements, especially in relation to the installation of wildlife-friendly fencing and track maintenance.
While clearing vegetation on conservation areas can be necessary to better protect and improve native vegetation and overall biodiversity values, Northern Inland Acting Team Leader, Ben Vincent, cautioned clearing was only considered within the goals of each specific agreement.
"This is a subject that can be confusing to landholders, and there are several key points to consider before undertaking any vegetation clearing,” Ben said.
“In NSW, most conservation agreements are classed as Category 2 sensitive land under the Local Land Services Act 2013 (LLS Act) and are therefore subject to limited vegetation clearing rules and distances, he said.
"This means boundary clearing allowances under the Rural Fire Service (RFS) Rural Boundary Clearing Code for NSW and Schedule 5A of the LLS Act may not apply to a conservation agreement.”
“Clause 6.9a of the RFS Rural Boundary Clearing Code for NSW and Section 60O(o) of the LLS Act effectively states any clearing undertaken in a conservation agreement area must be consistent with the requirements of that agreement.”
Ben emphasised that while every BCT agreement type was different, information about allowable vegetation clearing envelopes could be found in signed agreements. He also pointed out that conservation area clearing envelopes indicate maximum clearing distances and any approved clearing undertaken should always be to the minimum extent needed to achieve the conservation goals.
“We recommend you familiarise yourself with this information as it relates to your specific agreement,” he said.
“If after looking through your agreement paperwork you are still unsure of your clearing allowance, we are always happy to work with you to get a result that achieves a biodiversity outcome.
“I recommend you contact your local BCT regional conservation officer so they can come out and do a site visit if necessary to help you find the correct clearing envelope information specific to your conservation agreement.”
For more information review the conservation management resources online at www.bct.nsw.gov.au/resources. If you still have questions, please phone 1300 992 688.