Narrandera Council says residents should not collect fallen trees in its reserve for firewood. Photo: Narrandera Shire Council.
Narrandera Shire Council has issued a strong warning to residents following an increase in the illegal removal of timber and firewood from the Narrandera Flora and Fauna Reserve and other public land across the shire.
The local government body says the activity is causing significant environmental damage and threatening local wildlife, with fallen timber being removed from areas specifically protected to conserve biodiversity and maintain healthy ecosystems.
“Removing this material disrupts fragile ecosystems and undermines conservation efforts,” the council said in a statement.
The NSW Local Land Services has previously warned that collecting wood from Travelling Stock Reserves (TSRs) can incur fines of up to $5500.
While collecting dead wood and fallen branches may appear harmless, Narrandera Council has emphasised that they play a crucial role in the local environment. Fallen timber provides shelter for reptiles, birds, insects and small mammals, creates nesting and breeding sites, improves soil health and nutrient cycling, and helps retain moisture while preventing erosion. Removing this material disrupts fragile ecosystems and undermines conservation efforts designed to protect native species.
Council has confirmed that authorised officers regularly patrol protected areas and that surveillance is in place. Anyone found illegally removing timber or firewood may face significant fines and further legal action.
While acknowledging that firewood is an important resource for many households, particularly during colder months, council has stressed that it must only be collected from designated and approved areas in accordance with local regulations. Residents are being urged to respect signage and reserve boundaries, refrain from collecting timber in protected areas and report any suspicious activity to local authorities.
