LANDHOLDERS are being urged to take the necessary steps to protect paddock trees when burning stubble on their properties.
Fire restrictions are currently in place with a Fire Danger Period declared by the Country Fire Authority (CFA) until the start of May.
This means that a permit is required to burn grass, stubble and other vegetation on a property until the Fire Danger Period ends.
Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) regional manager natural environment programs, Jane Roots, said native paddock trees have significant biodiversity benefits and are protected by law.
"They provide shade to stock, reduce wind impacts to crops, store carbon, and provide habitat to important pollinators and birds that feed on pests,” she said.
Latest Stories
“We encourage landholders to be well prepared before beginning a stubble burn.
"Creating firebreaks around trees and having water and equipment ready to extinguish the fire will ensure you can protect your valued native trees.”
Find out more at www.environment.vic.gov.au/native-vegetation/farming-and-native-vegetation.
Ms Roots urged landholders to follow all CFA guidelines which outline what can and can’t be done during a declared Fire Danger Period.
Find more information at https://www.cfa.vic.gov.au/warnings-restrictions/fire-bans-ratings-and-restrictions/can-i-or-cant-i.
Anyone wanting to report concerns about stubble burning and the destruction of any paddock trees should contact their local council.
