New plans for native and planted forests
From the Autumn 2008 edition of Bush Telegraph Magazine.
The Macquarie Plan is one of the six new plans demonstrating how Forests NSW will manage State forests from 2008-2013
Forests NSW has released Ecologically Sustainable Forest Management (ESFM) plans for its native forests in the Western and Riverina regions and for planted forests in the South West slopes, Monaro, Central West and Northern Tablelands regions.
Forests NSW forester, Heath Frewin, said the plans cover the next five years and are intended to provide clear information to the people of NSW on how their forests are being managed.
“The plans demonstrate Forests NSW commitment to sustainability, as both a profitable enterprise and a land management agency, and are integral to maintaining certification under the internationally recognised Australian Forestry Standard,” Heath said.
“The plans recognise that native forests provide a wide range of environmental benefits to the community and that their management should be based on sustainable management principles.”
Heath said the plans covered management of forest values such as biodiversity, soil and water, recreation, carbon storage and Aboriginal cultural heritage.
“These plans promote nature conservation and forest health, while sustaining timber production and economic and social development,” Heath said.
The plans set out the broad strategies, performance indicators and measurable outcomes for planted forest management in each region during the next five years.
Heath said public submissions were incorporated into the final plans.
Copies of the plans can be found online or in hard copy by contacting Forests NSW regional offices.
Howard Spencer, Public Affairs & Media, Coffs Harbour
