National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is planning a hazard reduction burn for the Heathcote National Park at South Waterfall starting tomorrow 7 August, weather permitting.
NPWS Area Manager Shaun Elwood said the 100 hectare burn in the Waterfall South area of the National Park is occurring in August to take advantage of suitable weather.
"This burn will help protect the Camp Coutts Scout Camp, Heathcote National Park and reduce the risk of wildfire to surrounding properties including the village of Waterfall," Mr Elwood said.
"The burn is due to begin at about 10am and motorists along the Princes Highway and M1 at Waterfall are reminded to drive to conditions and observe warning signs or directions from fire crews.
"Public access to Camp Coutts Scout Camp and Heathcote National Park including 108 firetrail and walking tracks to Lake Talooma will be closed during the burning operations.
"Smoke from the burn program may be visible in the National Park, including from Waterfall and Heathcote depending on wind direction for up to a week. We thank our neighbours for their understanding.
"People with asthma or those who are susceptible to respiratory problems are advised to keep clear of the area or stay indoors," said Mr Elwood.
This burn is one of the many hazard reduction operations undertaken by NPWS across NSW each year, many with the assistance of the NSW Rural Fire Service, and Fire & Rescue NSW.
This hazard reduction burn 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.
For health information relating to smoke from bush fires and hazard reduction burning, visit NSW Health or the Asthma Foundation.
More information on hazard reduction activities visit the Rural Fire Service and the Rural Fire Service "Fires near me" App.
