Hazard reduction burns are scheduled in the Kosciuzko National Park near Byadbo from tomorrow subject to weather.
National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) Area Manager, Pam O'Brien, said the three burns will cover approximately 5,600 hectares in the Byadbo area of the park.
Ms O'Brien said: "Motorists travelling in the Bombala and Delegate areas may encounter smoke and should drive to the conditions.
"Visitors should also check the NSW Rural Fire Service website www.rfs.nsw.gov.au for updates on the timing of the burns."
These proposed burns are part of 18 scheduled across several National Parks and Reserves, including larger blocks in Kosciuszko and Brindabella National Parks in the Southern Ranges.
They will cover about 23,000 ha in total as part of the annual hazard reduction burning program.
NPWS Branch Director Mick Pettitt: "This has been a busy year for our staff, having been involved in firefighting operations for more than seven months, with local crews supporting fire events across the state and Victoria since mid-August."
"The annual burning program is scheduled for autumn due to more predictable cooler weather, that help us to keep the burns at the right intensity to reduce bush fire fuels.
"This year, our window of opportunity is likely to be short, and may include burning over the Easter period. We apologise for possible smoke in the region during this popular holiday time, but ask for everyone's understanding for this important protection work for the community.
"The blocks that we are burning this year are identified as part of an ongoing strategic three year planning process and are located to minimise the run of wild fires in summer. The main objective of our burning program is to increase the protection to our park neighbours but also to provide protection for environmental assets with the reserves," said Mr Pettitt.
This work is part of the NSW Government's $76 million package, over six years, to boost bushfire preparedness and double hazard reduction in the state's national parks, where conditions allow. NPWS works closely with the Rural Fire Service (RFS) and other agencies on these burns. For health information relating to smoke from bush fires and hazard reduction burning, visit the NSW Health website or the Asthma Foundation.
More information on hazard reduction activities: NSW Rural Fire Service and the RFS "Fires near me app."
