Prescribed burn at West Jerrabomerra Grasslands - Friday 9 December

Released 08/12/2016

*Please be advised this prescribed burn has  been postponed due to unsuitable weather conditions.*

ACT Parks and Conservation Service wishes to advise that on Friday 9 December 2016 a 29 hectare ecological burn will be undertaken at the West Jerrabomerra Grasslands, Monaro Hwy, Symonston.

Neil Cooper, Manager, Fire, Forests and Roads in ACT Parks and Conservation said that low intensity patchy burns contribute to the restoration of habitat for endangered species such as the Grassland Earless Dragon.

"These ecological burns are undertaken as part of the government's grassland restoration program, which enhances remnant natural grassland communities across Canberra by reducing biomass and opening up the spaces between the tussocks.

“Areas close to the burn site that may receive some smoke are Monaro Hwy, Alexander Maconachie Centre, Southcare Helicopter Base and the Monaro Model Aero Club,” Mr Cooper said.

All prescribed burns are listed on the Upcoming Prescribed Burns page on the Environment, Planning and Sustainable Development website along with maps and advice.

Members of the public can also find out more information about upcoming burns by following @ACT_Parks on Twitter or by completing a simple smartform to get all ACT Parks prescribed burn updates by email.

For tips on how to stay safe if there is smoke in the area, visit the asthma foundation website.

Like in all prescribed burns, safety is of paramount importance. Highly experienced Parks fire managers, supported by trained Parks fire-fighters, will conduct the burning operations. Staff will continue to monitor the burn site until smoke has not been visible for 24 hours.

Before any burns are undertaken major stakeholders, including the Emergency Services Agency, the Australian Federal Police, Air Traffic Control, Roads ACT and the Bureau of Meteorology are advised. For more information, please call Access Canberra on 13 22 81.

The prescribed burn areas at West Jerrabomerra Grasslands are highlighted in pink below:

- Statement ends -

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