Shire of Augsta-Margaret River warns on illegal firewood collection

Residents are on notice not to take firewood from Shire reserves and crown land as winter beckons. The Shire of Augusta-Margaret River put out a formal notice this week directing residents to approved firewood-collection sites, and not to raid local national parks under the control of WA’s Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions. Shire chief executive Stephanie Addison-Brown said the region was a biodiversity hotspot and people risked causing environmental damage by removing wood from the wrong areas. “As the weather becomes cooler, there is an increased demand for firewood, but we ask that you follow the rules this winter so important native habitats and ecosystems can be preserved,” she said. “There are plenty of approved suppliers and opportunities to legally collect your own.” Visit the DBCA website for more information.