Territory and Municipal Services are displeased with some of you:
The ACT Government today urged members of the public to be vigilant in reporting any acts of vandalism in our reserves and open spaces. This follows several incidences of trees being cut down in nature reserves as well as people painting trees and rocks.
“Our nature reserves are for people to enjoy so it is very disappointing when rangers find trees cut down, facilities damaged and paint on trees and rocks,” said Shelley Swain, Acting Manager, North District, Parks and Conservation Service.
“Unfortunately several times this year our rangers have found trees cut down in our nature reserves, most recently in Gungahlin Hill Nature Reserve. It seems people are deciding to go and get their own firewood by cutting down trees which is very disappointing, not to mention potentially dangerous.
“I’d also remind Canberrans they cannot go into nature reserves and collect wood. This forms vital functions in the ecosystem, including animal habitat, returning nutrients to the soil and encouraging revegetation.
“Fines of up to $5500 apply under the Nature Conservation Act 1980 for cutting down trees or removing wood from reserves.
“We’ve also found a recent trend of people undertaking events in nature reserves and painting arrows and other marks on trees and rocks. Clearly this can spoil the amenity of the surrounding area. Canberrans are reminded that all events, no matter how small, held in our nature reserves must first be approved through the Parks and Conservation Service.
We’re sure you’ll all be filing works approval forms for your next picnic.