Forests stimulate local growth
From the Spring/Summer 2009 edition of Bush Telegraph Magazine.
The picturesque picnic area at The Pines, Watagan State Forest. Photo by Andrew Ford
The State forests of the central and mid north coasts are in high demand. Acting manager community partnerships, Pauline Stewart, writes of changes to ensure organised, recreational use of the forests is run in the best possible way.
Last year, an audit of Forests NSW Central Regions recreation-related permits uncovered opportunities for improved partnerships and permit management. Permits are issued for use of a section of State forest for a period of time (known as an occupation permit) and for activities on-site (a special purpose permit).
The audit found fee schedules, site inspections and feedback mechanisms for permit holders could be improved.
As a result, a new equitable and cost-recovery focused system, including an annual site inspection program for all 25 recreation-related occupation permits, was devised.
The principal aim is to strengthen the relationship between us and permit holders, at the same time as delivering improved outcomes from the use of the forest, community partnerships forester, Andrew Ford, said.
The close proximity of urban centres, increased populations and increasing domestic travel has seen the coastal forests become increasingly popular.
Archery, mountain biking and car rallies are just some of the uses.
We have four commercial operators in the area that collectively have 20 000 customers each year - providing significant economic stimulation for the local community, Andrew said.
Three commercial operators are paintball businesses with Paintball Petes Pty Ltd the first inspected under the renewed program.
Occupation permits are issued for a fixed land area within a State forest, generally with associated infrastructure like buildings, water tanks or toilets. Associated special purpose permits are then issued for the actual activities which take place on-site.
Given this, our site inspections focus on reviewing existing infrastructure, site management, including safety, hazard identification and the specific conditions of the permits, Andrew said.
The inspections offer the permit holder the opportunity to discuss future development and management of the site.
According to Andrew, the permit holders that have participated in the new program have welcomed the new framework and the opportunity to talk to Forests NSW staff.
The program has improved our knowledge of site infrastructure and enhanced information-sharing about these businesses, now and in the future, Andrew said.
For more information, contact acting manager community partnerships on T: (02) 6585 3744.
Pauline Stewart Community Partnerships, Maitland
