Eurobodalla Shire Council has threatened it will throw the book at people cutting down or poisoning trees along our coastline.
Neighbours are being encouraged to contact them is they see the practice happening in their neighbourhood, usually most common in beachfront areas.
Council’s Compliance Coordinator Noel Fuller said it’s nothing more than vandalism and it won’t be tolerated.
““Poisoning a tree is the same as spraying graffiti on a toilet block or smashing a park bench,” Mr Fuller said.
“By removing seaside vegetation you are losing food, shelter and breeding sites for small birds and mammals, and increasing the risk of weeds and erosion,” he said.
“In fact, frequently targeted vegetation includes listed vulnerable ecosystems like coastal heath, which persists in areas between homes and the ocean. Clearing for views takes from these valuable remnant ecosystems. Once they are gone, they’re gone.”
Penalties for illegally clearing or injuring native vegetation on public land are significant, with minimum on-the-spot fines of $3000 for breaking branches, sawing limbs or trimming for views. If matters proceed to court the penalties are more serious up to around $1-million.
As a deterrent to further damage, Council also installs view screens at sites where trees have been illegally removed.
“View-blocking screens are left in place until vegetation is restored through natural regeneration – this can take several years,” Mr Fuller said.
| Concerned citizens can report vegetation vandalism to Council’s rangers on 4474 1019. For more information on tree and vegetation removal visit the Council’s website. |
