The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) and the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) are planning a hazard reduction burn in Hat Head National Park later this week, weather permitting.
NPWS Hastings Macleay Area Manager Shane Robinson said the purpose of the burn is to protect homes in the local Arakoon community and tackle a lantana infestation in Hat Head National Park.
"NPWS has planned the 378-hectare burn to reduce fuel loads in the park east of Arakoon," said Mr Robinson.
"We're aiming to conduct the burn under specific wind conditions that will direct smoke away from the Arakoon community, however smoke may still be visible residents.
"If you're sensitive to smoke, try to stay indoors and keep your doors and windows closed to reduce exposure.
"We also recommend that you remove any washing from outdoor clotheslines and ensure your pets have a protected area.
"Gap Beach Road and access to Gap Beach South Arakoon will be closed for duration of burn, as will walking track from Gap Beach to Smoky Cape Lighthouse.
"We anticipate that the burn will take approximately two days, followed by up to a week of mop up activities and patrol to ensure the safety of the local community," said Mr Robinson.
The hazard reduction burn will also help to reduce the presence of weeds, such as lantana, and protect the dry sclerophyll (Eucalypt) woodland, Littoral Rainforest and Themeda grassland communities that are found in Hat Head National Park.
All burns across New South Wales will continue to be coordinated with the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) to ensure the impact on the community, including from smoke, are assessed at a regional level.
Details on specific burns will be made available in advance on the Rural Fire Service website, 'Fires Near Me' app, and on NPWS Alerts website.
For health information relating to smoke from bush fires and hazard reduction burning, visit NSW Health or the Asthma Foundation.
For up to date information on these, and other, planned hazard reduction activities, visit the Rural Fire Service website.
