Forestry Organization Claims Environmental Regulations are Endangering Industry
The forestry industry in NSW claims that due to insufficient time provided by the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) to comply with new rules protecting the habitat of the endangered greater gliders, forestry operations across the state have been shut down.
The greater glider was categorized as endangered in July 2022, previously listed as vulnerable, with populations decreasing by 80 percent over the past two decades.
One of the new rules mandates the protection of any tree where a glider is spotted and the establishment of a 25-meter logging exclusion zone around it for the duration of the forestry operation.
Following the suspension of 15 harvesting operations in state forests by the government-owned Forestry Corporation almost two weeks ago, the industry is facing significant financial losses with no resolution in sight.
Maree McCaskill from Timber NSW highlights the impacts on trucking operators and harvesters contracted by the Corporation, referring to it as a dispute between government agencies.
The shutdown poses a serious threat to wood supply according to the Australian Forest Contractors Association, and spokesperson Tim Lester emphasizes the urgent need for a resolution to prevent mill closures and further impacts.
The opposition towards native forest logging in NSW is intensifying, with various groups calling for an end to the practice. The industry faces scrutiny from environmentalists, political leaders, and experts, leading to confrontations and inquiries regarding non-compliance with habitat protection rules.
