THE State government has announced a decision to replant up to 150 hectares of the historic Bundaleer Forest in the Mid North.
Forests Minister Leon Bignell said ForestrySA would start planting radiata pine trees in the coming months, during autumn and winter after 450ha were destroyed in a bushfire in January 2013.
“The region suffered again with the Bangor fire last year which burnt many hectares of agricultural land, forests, conservation and national parks, and commercial plantations in the Wirrabarra forest,” he said.
This also follows on from 60ha replanted in 2014.
Mr Bignell said this decision would maintain the State’s forests until decisions are made about the long term future of the Mid North forest plantations.
“At the current rate of supply, we have about five years of logs remaining,” he said.
“Replanting the forests will start to produce commercial-size logs in 22 years’ time at the earliest. “Planting larger areas will not change that timeframe.”
Mr Bignell said there were still discussions to be had on the future of forestry in the Mid North but a decision to not replant now would make future discussions redundant.
“I don’t want to give people false hope but we do want to give the forest every chance of success,” he said.
This follows a report released by ForestrySA last year recommending not replanting the forest.
Mr Bignell said there would be a need for a range of options for future management of the forest.
“This may involve private ownership of the forest which has been with the state since 1870,” he said.
“The Mid North Forests - Future Strategy has been released to the public and we will consult extensively with the community to determine the best way forward.
“This region’s economic, business, social, environmental, fire management and recreational perspectives must all be taken into consideration.
“It is clear as a result of the bushfires the region needs a diversified and sustainable economy.
“We are committed to working with the community to make sure all ideas are discussed.”
Earlier this month more than 350 people attended public workshops in Jamestown and
Wirrabara held by the Northern Forests Community Initiative Group.
“It’s important anyone who is interested in the future of the Mid North has the chance to have their say, particularly the people who live in the area and know the land intimately” Mr Bignell said.
Details: View maps of the Bundaleer and Wirrabara forests and the Mid North Forests - Future Strategy at www.pir.sa.gov.au/forestry/mid_north_forests_future_strategy.
Have a say on the future options for the region at http://yourforests.com.au/