Educational banners installed to discourage vandalism of coastal vegetation
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Educational banners will be installed at sites of illegal tree destruction to raise awareness within the broader community around tree vandalism on Council reserves.
The first banners have been erected at Kemp Beach following extensive tree deaths on the foreshore. The shade cloth signage will help to limit access to the sites, as well as highlighting the importance of the trees and coastal vegetation that provide much needed food and shelter to our native wildlife.
Portfolio holder Water, Waste Management and the Environment, Councillor Andrea Friend, said the tree deaths appear consistent with the application of herbicide.
“Council wants to limit access to the site while there is a danger of branches falling from the dead trees,” Cr Friend said.
“It is intended that the fence will remain until new trees we plant on the site reach the height of the fence. That should take about two years. The rehabilitation of the area will be a cost to all ratepayers.”
Cr Friend encouraged residents to report any suspicious activities near the identified sites to deter further damage to these important coastal habitats.
“Not only do these areas of vegetation enhance the beauty of our charming coastline, they have various environmental functions in natural and urban environments including habitat, water quality, air quality, shade, erosion control, aesthetics, weed suppression, climate change mitigation and wind breaks,” Cr Friend said.
“These trees take years to grow and play a vital role in Council’s ongoing coastal protection program.”
The fences are the latest Council response to the destruction of trees at a number of sites across the Capricorn Coast
“Unfortunately, there has been a number of instances of vegetation damage in several localities where trees have been cut down or poisoned,” Cr Friend said.
“Fines of up to $28,600 are applicable for this illegal offence under Councils Local Law No. 1 (Administration) 2011.”
But its not all bad news. Council was also thrilled to partner with a home school group for a tree planting and environmental education session held today at Kemp Beach, to celebrate the United Nation’s World Environment Day (WED).
The event not only provided an excellent opportunity for young minds to understand the importance of biodiversity and the impact of their actions on our environment, it also allows students and parents to plant 100 trees to help combat the tree loss further north of the planting site.
Council encourages anyone with information about vegetation vandalism to contact Council’s Customer Support Team on 1300 790 919.