Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service begin hazard reduction burns in Bringalily State Forest and Esk National Park

Rangers will be taking advantage of cool weather to conduct hazard reduction burns in the Bringalily State Forest and Esk National Park, which are likely to produce a large amount of smoke.

Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service staff have started hazard reduction burns in the Bringalily State Forest and Esk National Park from today.

The burns are likely to produce a large amount of smoke and residents near the sites are advised to keep their doors and windows closed if they have respiratory concerns.

A QPWS spokesperson said the burns were part of the annual hazard reduction/conservation management program for parks and forests.

“The aim of this burn is to reduce the volume of forest fuels and to create a mosaic pattern of burnt and unburnt areas,” they said.

“This will help reduce the intensity of any subsequent wildfires and provide favourable conditions for natural forest regeneration.

“Smoke can decrease visibility on the roads, so it is important that motorists drive safely to the conditions.”

Residents with concerns about the burns should phone the Inglewood QPWS office on 0437 000 192 or the Gatton QPWS office on 5346 9521.