The plan identifies potential operational areas for the coming years and is updated regularly as part of VicForests’ ordinary planning process.
The proposed changes will add new operational areas (called coupes) for harvesting and access, amend areas already on the plan and remove coupes that have been successfully regenerated or are no longer required.
Community feedback is sought on matters that should be considered by VicForests in deciding whether to include specific areas in the plan or as part of more detailed planning undertaken before the start of activities in the proposed new areas.
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VicForests chief executive officer Monique Dawson said areas on the approved plan underwent further detailed assessments and planning before harvesting occurred.
“We are particularly interested in feedback about ways we can plan our future activities to minimise impacts on local communities,” Mr Dawson said.
It is important that interested members of the public use this opportunity to make themselves known to VicForests to enable further engagement on specific issues as part of this detailed planning.
Public and stakeholder feedback on the proposed plan is open until July 30.
In launching the consultation process, Ms Dawson said the plan was essential to meeting ongoing obligations to supply responsibly sourced timber to local customers and contractors in accordance with the Victorian Forestry Plan.
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All VicForests’ timber harvesting and regeneration operations are conducted in line with Victoria’s strict environmental regulations and the State’s Forest Management Zoning scheme and are subject to oversight by an independent regulator.
● A schedule of proposed timber harvesting areas, maps indicating approximate locations and a feedback form for public comment are available at www.vicforests.com.au/proposed-timber-release-plan-july-2021
● Submissions can also be provided via email to vfs.trp@vicforests.com.au or made in writing and sent to: VicForests, GPO Box 191, Melbourne, 3001 from July 2 until 5 pm on July 30.
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