The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is conducting a hazard reduction south east of Lake Nepean in the Upper Nepean State Conservation Area from midday, Wednesday 21 April.
Smoke may impact visibility on the Hume Highway during the operation, and drivers are urged to take care.
Around 3700 hectares will be treated. This part of the reserve was not directly impacted by fire last summer and it is important this burn goes ahead to help protect the Metropolitan Water Catchment and residents and businesses from future large fire events.
Reducing fuel loads in the area will also help to maintain biodiversity by reducing fire intensity associated with summer bushfire events.
Depending on conditions, other burns may also be carried out in the region next week so smoke may be visible in the area for several days.
We thank our neighbours and visitors to the region for their understanding.
People with asthma or who are susceptible to respiratory problems are advised to keep clear of the area or stay indoors.
The hazard reduction burn will be a joint operation between NPWS and the NSW Rural Fire Service.
All park and trail closures will be listed on the NPWS Alerts website.
The Upper Nepean State Conservation Area burn is one of five hazard reductions the NPWS has planned in the Southern Highlands this autumn. They are just some of the many hazard reduction operations undertaken by NPWS across NSW each year.
For health information relating to smoke from bush fires and hazard reduction burning, visit NSW Health or the Asthma Foundation.
