Plan finalised following community consultations at Canaways Creek

Following extensive consultations with the Canaways Creek Community Group, the Forest Practices Plan for coupe TNO26C was certified on the 7th of March 2008 and will proceed.


“Forestry Tasmania has engaged in a two year consultation process involving the Canaways Creek Community Group,” said Steve Whiteley, Forestry Tasmania’s Forest Manager for the Derwent District. “This has been a valuable step in our planning process.”

“Before any operations begin, it is a normal part of the process to engage neighbours and members of the local community, as well as various specialists and scientific experts to review and modify our plan as necessary.

“An example of important new information gathered is that a wedge-tailed eagle’s nest was discovered while conducting a helicopter survey with the Canaways Creek Community Group. In addition to being an exciting discovery, the plan was adjusted to ensure suitable habitat is maintained around the nest.

“This area was previously harvested and regenerated. There is evidence of activity from the late 1800s, and remnants of an old timber tramway running through it. Given the topography of the area and the values that are being managed, a range of harvesting methods will be used.

“The Canaways Creek Community Group was particularly concerned about protecting water and soil values. Given that residents draw their water, steps were taken to ensure these values are maintained. Current water quality monitoring will continue as various forest operations occur. We will share this information with the Community Group.

“FT now intends to commence operations for this area as weather conditions and contractor availability allows.

“We will continue to work with the Canaways Creek Community Group as we move forward with this and future operations.


David Tuck, Corporate Relations 6233 8249
ENDS
13 March 2008