Forests NSW concerned about motorcyclists safety

The State Government is appealing to motorcyclists to ride sensibly in State forests, and to take notice of signs, indicating they should not enter areas where timber harvesting is taking place.

Primary Industries Minister Ian Macdonald said riders should be aware that timber harvesting as well as recreation took place in State forests and logging trucks used the roads to transport timber.

“Inexperienced riders are at risk if they come across these vehicles unexpectantly,” he said.

“Harvesting signs indicate where harvesting is taking place, and riders should not enter there areas, as they will be putting themselves at risk of being hit by trees being felled or large machinery.

“Many people are unaware that if they drive a vehicle in a State forest, including motor bikes and trail bikes, they must be licensed and the vehicle must be registered.”

Forests NSW Monaro Region Manager Gavin Jeffries said the same laws applied to State forest roads and tracks as applied to the highways.

‘Irresponsible use of motor bikes within the forest not only puts forest visitors at risk but also causes significant soil erosion and environmental damage.

“The main problems come from bikes being ridden at unsafe speed or taken onto steep fire trails where wheel spin causes ruts that later wash out and muddy streams during heavy rainfall,” he said.

Forestry staff conduct regular patrols to make the forests safer for all forest users.

“Motorcyclists are encouraged to ride in a safe and responsible manner on formed roads,” Minister Macdonald said

“Through a commonsense and lawful approach a safe and enjoyable forest experience can be achieved for the general public and other forest users.”

Information on recreation in State forests can be downloaded from the internet, at the following web site: http://www.forest.nsw.gov.au/publication/forest_facts/recreation_vehicles/default.asp