Firewood collectors across north-east Victoria are being urged to start planning their firewood needs following opening of the spring collection period.
Forest Fire Management Victoria (FFMVic) Deputy Chief Fire Officer Aaron Kennedy said from September 1 designated firewood collection areas on public land opened, allowing communities to gather wood for personal use.
“While firewood is free to collect, supply is not unlimited. This means firewood needs to be managed responsibly to ensure environmental sustainability,” Mr Kennedy said.
“Designated firewood collection areas are selected for a range of reasons including the availability of firewood, community safety, and to protect sites of cultural and environmental significance.
“Collection limits include taking a maximum of two cubic metres per person per day and a maximum of 16 cubic metres per household per financial year.”
Firewood can only be collected during autumn, from March 1 to June 30, and spring, from September 1 to November 30.
Conservation Regulator authorised officers will be patrolling state forests and targeting anyone attempting to take firewood illegally.
Those caught breaking the rules can face on-the-spot fines of up to $740, and serious offences can result in maximum penalties of $9246 or up to a year in prison.
The opening of some collection areas may be delayed because of the seasonally wet conditions.
For more information on firewood collection rules, and to find your closest designated firewood collection area, visit www.ffm.vic.gov.au/firewood/firewood-collection-in-your-region
Information on local collection restrictions will be available on interactive maps, released on September 1.
Financial assistance is available for concession card holders and people on low incomes who rely on purchasing firewood.
More information about this support can be found at www.ffm.vic.gov.au/firewood/energy-concession-and-support