Breach #208 Landing operations and hauling in wet weather (Toolangi, Victoria)

06/17/2010 10:45 am

On The Ground:

Log trucks are loading and hauling in wet weather

Breach Type: Alleged

Breach Rating: Major

Notification date: 16 June 2010

Notified to: VicForests

Breach Status: Notified

Breach Location: Toolangi Australia

Perpetrator: VicForests

Description:

On the 13th of June 2010 it was raining heavily, yet empty log trucks were driving into the forest at Silvia Creek Rd and full log trucks were coming out. We have 4 adult witnesses.

On the 16th of June 2010 it was raining steadily, yet loggers were active in coupes on the Kalatha Link Rd and trucks were being loaded in coupes. We have 6 adult witnesses

208.01 The forest manager has failed to enforce 2.4.5 of the Code of Forest Practice - Mandatory action - Suspension of Cartage - Mandatory Action - Roads must be temporarily closed to heavy timber harvesting traffic when persistent wet weather or road stability compromise road drainage and water quality

208.02 The forest manager has failed to enforce 2.5.3 of the Code of Forest Practice - Mandatory action - Operational Restrictions - Landing operations must be suspended when continuation would result in significant deterioration of the landing surface such as soil mixing and compaction.

Undertaking Sought:

On these dates DSE should inspect the log books of all active coupes in the Central Highlands and identify all operators that were carting and loading in the rain and wet conditions.

Accountability: