Windrow burning in recently-harvested timber plantations in Riamukka State forest was conducted last month by Forestry Corporation of NSW.

“This is not only important for removing fire hazards, but also allows access for land preparation for the new seedlings we will plant to re-establish the plantation so it can continue supplying timber to local producers for generations to come,” A spokesperson for Forestry Corporation of NSW said.

“Strong winds in the area re-ignited the fire and crews are working to keep the fire contained to the State forest and take advantage of the fire by using it to reduce the fuel load in an area we were already planning to undertake hazard reduction burning.”

The company said reducing the fuel load in forested areas is important for protecting communities like Walcha and the surrounding forests that the local timber industry relies on from the risk of bushfires.

“Hazard reduction burning is a key part of bushfire prevention but we also invest in training firefighting staff, maintaining and upgrading equipment, improving key forest roads for rapid access and maintaining fire towers to aid rapid fire detection and quick response during the fire season,” the spokesperson said.

“This week 18 seasonal staff have come back on board to help prepare for the fire season ahead. These staff are based in Walcha, Tamworth, Armidale and Nundle.