The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is planning a hazard reduction burn in Billinudgel Nature Reserve, Tuesday 31 August.
NPWS Tweed Byron Area Manager Jenny Atkins said the purpose of the burn is to reduce bushfire risk to properties in North Ocean Shores.
"Subject to favourable weather conditions, the 20-hectare burn will reduce fuel loads in the reserve adjacent to Banool Circuit and Flinders Way," said Ms Atkins.
"Smoke will likely visible to residents in Ocean Shores. If you're sensitive to smoke, try to stay indoors and keep your doors and windows closed to reduce exposure.
"We also recommend that residents in the area remove washing from outdoor clotheslines and ensure pets have a protected area," said Ms Atkins.
Billinudgel Nature Reserve will be closed for the day between Shara Boulevard and Yelgun Trail. There will be no access to Yelgun Trail or South Trail for the duration of the hazard reduction operation.
This hazard reduction burn will also help to maintain the dry sclerophyll forest on the ridges and slopes of Billinudgel Nature Reserve.
All burns across NSW will continue to be coordinated with the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) to ensure the impact on the community, including from smoke, are assessed at a regional level.
Hazard reduction burns are essential to reduce bushfire fuel loads to help protect the parks, neighbours and communities from future bushfires.
Hazard reductions are an essential activity under the current Public Health Orders and will be conducted in a COVID-19 safe manner to ensure the safety of fire crews and the community.
COVID-19 safety briefings are provided to all staff who are required to wear masks along with their normal fire personal protective equipment.
Contact tracing is also enabled via the QR code sign-in all fire crews must complete when starting.
For health information relating to smoke from bush fires and hazard reduction burning, visit the NSW Health website or the Asthma Foundation.
