Protecting paddock trees from damage during stubble burning

Published on 09 March 2018

Horsham Rural City Council is reminding landowners to protect paddock trees and small patches of native vegetation during the stubble burning season.

Paddock trees are generally mature with little or no natural understory and regeneration is extremely limited. There are a number of threats to the viability of isolated paddock trees and remnant native vegetation, including stubble burning.

Planning and Economic Director Angela Murphy said that every effort should be made to protect paddock trees from damage.

“These large old trees that are scattered across paddocks throughout the Grampians are widely appreciated for their aesthetic appeal.  They are also recognised for their economic benefits such as providing shade and shelter to livestock, reducing the risk of dryland salinity and erosion,” she said.

Ms Murphy said that the trees are important for local biodiversity.

“Birds, bats and other animals use paddock trees for resting, feeding, protection from predators and as a stepping stone to larger stands of vegetation. Even in dead trees, the hollows are used for nesting, whilst fallen timber provides habitat for small ground-dwelling animals such as reptiles,” she said.

Failure to ensure the protection of paddock trees may result in action being taken by Council Officers and/or government departments.

If landholders wish to commence stubble burning between 13 March and 3 May 2018, they must obtain a permit from Council.  To apply for a permit, people should visit the Horsham Rural City Council website at www.hrcc.vic.gov.au or contact Danielle Fowler on 5382 9724 or danielle.fowler@hrcc.vic.gov.au.