Council's annual prescribed burn program starting soon

Council s annual prescribed burn program helps mitigate bushfire risk web

Scenic Rim Regional Council is expecting to start its annual prescribed burn program on Council bushland reserves next week.

Mayor Greg Christensen said the burns reduce fuel loads within Council reserves with the overall aim of mitigating bushfire risks for nearby residents.

"After heavy seasonal rains, grass and weeds are growing, which means we will have a bigger fuel load next fire season," he said.

"Using fire helps to reduce that fuel load, maintain the health of our ecosystem and importantly reduce the impact from fires on our communities.

"With more than 200 bushland reserves, parks and lands in the region, it's important our program focuses on key areas that pose the highest risk.

"We work closely with Queensland Fire and Emergency Services and local Rural Fire Brigades to reduce fuel loads within targeted reserves.

"With so many different landholders across the community, it's an important reminder to private landholders to slash long grass, clean gutters and remove flammable items and rubbish from around the property."

Cr Christensen said the fuel reduction burns were just one part of Council's annual works schedule to mitigate bushfire risk.

"We undertake weed control, slashing, mulching and allow livestock grazing to reduce the grass levels," he said.

"We also upgrade and build fire trails, which allow access for emergency fire fighting vehicles to access reserves in both a response situation, as well as for mitigation activities."

The first burn for the season is scheduled at the Waste Transfer Station on Tamborine Mountain, however Cr Christensen said pinpointing a time has it challenges.

"While we are anticipating the burn taking place next week, this depends on weather conditions and the availability of the Rural Fire Service volunteers to manage the burns," he said.

"All neighbouring properties will be notified at least 24 hours prior to the burn."

The proposed reserves scheduled for prescribed burns this season are as follows:

Note: Specific dates cannot be provided at this time due to variable factors such as weather and volunteer availability. Council will provide notice to neighbouring properties prior to burn ignition, and encourages the community to follow Council's Facebook page where planned burns will be announced.