The Department of Parks and Wildlife (DPaW) is asking the community to help protect Mt Lindesay near Denmark by not riding motorbikes on designated walk trails. DPaW Frankland District flora officer Janine Liddelow said people were encouraged to visit Mt Lindesay and enjoy the scenery, flora and fauna, but it was important that visitors adhered to signage prohibiting the use of motorbikes on walk trails. “There are five declared rare species and 26 priority listed species at Mt Lindesay and Little Mt Lindesay, and many of these species are susceptible to dieback (Phytophthora cinnamomi),” she said. “Parts of the area are believed to be dieback-free, so it is important that the disease is not spread, which would threaten the survival of susceptible plant species.” Ms…
The Department of Parks and Wildlife has urged people visiting Ningaloo Marine Park to be aware of the presence of irukandji jellyfish following the sighting of three of the animals in the offshore waters of Ningaloo Reef and Exmouth Gulf. Commercial operators in particular should be aware of the dangers of irukandji and understand first aid procedures. People are also reminded that wearing full body stinger suits made of nylon or lycra or other body coverings can reduce the likelihood of being stung. However, the faces, hands and feet may stil be at risk if they are not covered. If people are stung by an irukandji, they should be aware that: the animals are small, transparent and not often seen. The initial sting may be minor…
The Department of Parks and Wildlife is seeking help from the public to find out who vandalised the Mount Seaview fire lookout tower in Claymore Road in the Jarrahwood State forest block south-east of Busselton. The vandalism was reported to DPaW by a local farmer who had a past connection with the structure. DPaW’s acting Blackwood District Manager Brad Commins said the vandals had used chainsaws to hack down the hand-hewn legs of the 25 metre tower last Thursday. It is believed the vandals took away some of the legs. The rest had been left as a pile on the forest floor. “DPaW crews have reclaimed all usable timber from the site,” Mr Commins said. “The usable timber is being stored until we decide what…
Western Australia’s 27 million hectares in parks and reserves will be managed by the newly formed Department of Parks and Wildlife - from Monday. Environment Minister Albert Jacob said the new department would begin operations tomorrow. Mr Jacob said the department would give new focus to the management of WA’s most important natural areas and conservation of our unique plants and animals.
The Environmental Protection Authority’s report and recommendations on the Proposed Forest Management Plan 2014-2023 have been released and can be viewed on the EPA’s website. The department has released a number of documents which support the release of the EPA report. Read more...