The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is supporting a cultural burn in Triplarina Nature Reserve, West Nowra on Monday 15 July, weather permitting.
NPWS area manager Michael Phelan said the small 3.5 hectare burn is due to begin at about 10am and will deliver benefits for threatened species and protect the reserve from the potential spread of wildfire to surrounding private properties.
"This burn utilises Aboriginal cultural burning practices and involves Indigenous fire practitioners from the Nowra Aboriginal community.
"Cultural burns often spark plant germination, including threatened plant species and help reduce surrounding weeds and reinvigorate the landscape.
"NPWS Aboriginal cultural burn programs support Indigenous land practises, integrate indigenous fire into the management of NSW National Parks and help build the capacity of Aboriginal people in fire management.
"This is the first NPWS cultural burn in the Shoalhaven area and we look forward to the environmental, social and cultural benefits this type of low-intensity burn produces.
"Smoke from the burn may be visible in the Nowra area for a number of days.
"Smoke may also impact motorists driving along the Yalwal Road. Motorists are reminded to drive to conditions and observe warning signs or directions from fire crews.
"We thank our neighbours for their understanding.
"People with asthma or who are susceptible to respiratory problems are advised to keep clear of the area or stay indoors," said Mr Phelan
For health information relating to smoke from bush fires and hazard reduction burning, visit NSW Health or the Asthma Foundation.
More information on hazard reduction activities visit the Rural Fire Service and the Rural Fire Service "Fires near me" App.
