Wet weather has prompted the Department of Land, Environment, Water and Planning (DELWP) to postpone the opening of several Firewood Collection Areas across the Wimmera, that had been scheduled to open this weekend.

Although none of the collections areas in the immediate Dimboola area are affected by this postponement, those collecting firewood should remain aware of the effects of the recent rain on access these areas, along with the regulations governing collecting firewood.

DELWP District Manager Russell Manning said: "Our DELWP staff have been vigilant in their assessment of conditions, noting that access to many designated Firewood Collection Areas remains restricted by widespread surface water.

"To reduce adverse environmental impacts, DELWP has been unable to open several collection areas until conditions improve, which may be further delayed with more rain forecast," Mr Manning said.

"These are:
  • Balmoral Golf Course (Southern Grampians Shire)
  • Brynterion Plantation (Yarriambiack Shire)
  • Illawarra - Pickering Track (Northern Grampians Shire)
  • Kadnook - Powers Creek Road (West Wimmera Shire)
  • Ledcourt - Forest Road (Northern Grampians Shire)
  • Wartook - Northern Grampians Road (Horsham Rural City Council)
  • Woohlpooer Block 1 (Southern Grampians Shire)

    "All other Firewood Collection Areas will remain open until 30 November 2016, unless otherwise advised.

    "To avoid environmental damage, firewood collectors are cautioned to stay on marked tracks and not to create new tracks, even if only to avoid wet or damaged track surfaces.

    "Any available firewood will be of varying sizes and quality and as a result of the current conditions, people will need to collect firewood by hand and carry it to their vehicle, so a wheelbarrow may be useful."

    It is illegal to sell firewood collected on public land without an appropriate permit or licence or to take more than the allowed amount. Any information the community may have about the illegal removal of firewood for sale can be reported to DELWP on 136 186 and quote Operation Axe.

    To find your nearest firewood collection area or for more information and updates, visit www.delwp.vic.gov.au/firewood, your nearest DELWP office or call the Customer Service Centre on 136 186.