Foreshore trees to be replanted

Trees will be replanted in the Lance Web Reserve at Ettalong following a spate of tree vandalism recently.

The damage to the trees was rated by Council as of medium significance.

Council had undertaken a letter box drop to surrounding residents informing them that the vandalism had occurred and they should contact Council if they had any information regarding the vandalism.

Mr Moore said a tree vandalism sign had also been arranged to be installed at the location.

"Due to the entire length of Lance Webb Reserve being a Potential Archaeological Deposit, excavation is not permitted without an Aboriginal Heritage Impact Permit," said Mr Moore.

"Therefore large concrete blocks were placed on the reserve and a sign was to be erected on them so that excavation would not need to be undertaken.

"The stumps will remain, as the trees had been cut low at the trunk.

"Replanting on the reserve in the area will also occur.

"Foreshore vegetation plays an important role in helping to stabilise foreshores through trapping of wind-blown sand and root binding of soil.

"These processes in turn help to protect public and private infrastructure and therefore it is in the best interests of everyone to ensure that this vegetation is retained and enhanced.

"All native vegetation on Council reserves is protected.

"Unauthorised clearing of native vegetation is an offence under Part 3 of the Native Vegetation Act, 2003 and carries a penalty of up to 1000 penalty units (currently $110,000) pursuant to section 126 of the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act, 1979," said Mr Moore.

Kaitlin Watts, 6 Dec 2012

Interviewee: Phil Moore