As we embrace the transition into autumn, Griffith City Council urges the rice growers to exercise caution and mindfulness when burning stubble to prepare for the new season. With the weekends and impending arrival of Anzac Day, we call upon all rice farmers to consider refraining from stubble burning during these times. This will allow community events and sporting events to be conducted under the best possible conditions.
By refraining from stubble burning over the weekends in Autumn and on Anzac Day, farmers can play a pivotal role in fostering a conducive environment for community gatherings, events, and activities. This proactive measure not only reduces potential hazards associated with poor air quality, but also ensures that our shared spaces remain enjoyable and accessible to all members of the community.
Planning and Environmental Manager, Carel Potgieter, highlighted how Griffith City Council has been collaborating with the Ricegrowers Association of Australia and other stakeholders, to minimize the impact of smoke in our community.
"Growers are to be mindful of the impact, and to only burn when conditions are appropriate. Growers have been asked to monitor weather conditions, to avoid burning late in the day and when there is no wind."
"The Ricegrowers Association of Australia have recently developed a stubble burning app that assists growers, and we strongly encourage farmers to use it to help plan their stubble burns."
