On Thursday 7 September, the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service is conducting a planned burn near Kyogle in the Border Ranges area to enhance and maintain key habitat for the critically endangered eastern bristlebird.
The eastern bristlebird (Dasyornis brachypterus) is an endangered species. Within the northern population, there are fewer than 40 individuals left in the wild.
Eastern bristlebirds require low tussocky grasses for breeding. Frequent fires are essential to maintaining these grassy forests by reducing encroachment by shrubs and other woody plants.
The low-intensity ecological burn will treat approximately 17 hectares of bushland and will take two days, including mop up operations.
In addition to supporting habitat for eastern bristlebirds, the burn will also reduce fuel levels in the area which will help to reduce the spread and intensity of any future bushfires.
Smoke may be visible in the area and depending on the wind conditions, smoke may drift to surrounding areas. People vulnerable to smoke are encouraged to remain indoors if necessary and keep their doors and windows closed to reduce exposure.
Traffic control will be in place on local roads. Motorists are reminded to drive to conditions, and to abide by signage and directions from staff.
Hazard reduction burns are essential to reduce bushfire fuel loads to help protect parks, neighbours and communities from future bushfires.
All burns around the state will continue being coordinated with the NSW Rural Fire Service to ensure the impact on the community is assessed at a regional level.
