#201 - Logging of Stream (Toolangi, Victoria)
Evidence: Video
Breach Description:
A stream in the headwaters of the Goulburn has been badly damaged by VicForests logging operations. A large tree has been cut and dropped into the gully knocking down many tree ferns. Harvesting debris have been pushed and trees have been felled into the buffers. Adequate buffers have not been left. The stream has been cleared up the side of the Mountain and several coup roads have crossed the water course.
Breach Type: Alleged
Breach Rating: Major
Notification date: 15th June 2010
Notified to: VicForests
Breach Status: Notified
Breach Location: Victorian Central Highlands, Toolangi, Australia
Perpetrator: TBA
Contractor:
Full Name: TBA
Business Name: TBA
Phone Number: TBA
Address: TBA
Geographic Location: (marked with red x)
Download Toolangi District Full Timber Release Plan 2010
Also see Google map at the bottom of the page
Coupe Number: 300-901-0008
Coupe Details:
Breach in relation to Australian Forestry Standard AS4708-2007
201.1 The forest manager has not monitored or evaluated the forest management activities in accordance with 4.1.4 of the AFS standard.
201.2 The forest Manager has not protected water resources in accordance with 4.6 – Criterion 6 of the AFS standard
Breach in Relation to Code of Forest Practice Requirement
201.3 Breach in Relation to Code of Forest Practice Requirement Section 2.2.1 Water Quality, River Health Protection – minimum buffers have not left
Section 2.2.1 Water Quality, River Health Protection
201.4 A tree has been felled in the buffer area
201.5 Machinery has entered the buffer
201.6 Harvesting has taken place in the buffer
201.7 Harvesting debris has been pushed into the drain structures within the buffer
Sustainable Forests (Timber) Act 2004 - SECT 5
<b>PART 2 SUSTAINABLE FOREST MANAGEMENT Principles of ecologically sustainable development</b> 5. Principles of ecologically sustainable development (1) In undertaking sustainable forest management in accordance with this Act, regard is to be had to the principles of ecologically sustainable development set out in this section. (2) Ecologically sustainable development is development that improves the total quality of life, both now and in the future, in a way that maintains the ecological processes on which life depends. (3) The objectives of ecologically sustainable development are- to enhance individual and community well-being and welfare by following a path of economic development that safeguards the welfare of future generations; to provide for equity within and between generations; to protect biological diversity and maintain essential ecological processes and life-support systems. (4) The following are to be considered as guiding principles of ecologically sustainable development- that decision making processes should effectively integrate both long-term and short-term economic, environmental, social and equity considerations; if there are threats of serious or irreversible environmental damage, lack of full scientific certainty should not be used as a reason for postponing measures to prevent environmental degradation; the need to consider the global dimension of environmental impacts of actions and policies; the need to develop a strong, growing and diversified economy which can enhance the capacity for environment protection; the need to maintain and enhance international competitiveness in an environmentally sound manner; the need to adopt cost effective and flexible policy instruments such as improved valuation, pricing and incentive mechanisms; the need to facilitate community involvement in decisions and actions on issues that affect the community.
Undertakings Sought
That DSE investigates this breach and provides a detailed report on their findings
In the event that a breach is confirmed we would appreciate access to the following information:
- information on where the wood and pulp wood from this coupe was sent.
- a copy of the penalty points awarded to the contractor
- details of rehabilitation activities that will take place
- details of the offsets that will be provided.
- a review of the failings of VicForest management in relation to this breach particularly in relation to their accreditation to their AFS certification.
Response:
TBA
Outcome:
Description: TBA
Penalty Points awarded: TBA