Strategy for Kosciuszko

“A main objective of all NPWS fire management strategies is the protection of life and property and this strategy for Kosciuszko is no different,” said NPWS Director Southern Alistair Henchman.
“The strategy includes a number of new initiatives including the determination of Asset Protection Zones around many built assets within the park.

“The strategy also sets out key areas, classed as Strategic Fire Advantage Zones where overall fuel hazard will be regularly monitored and appropriate fuel management programs will be implemented.

“Prescribed burning proposals are also included in the strategy. These proposals have been developed to minimise fires leaving the park and to protect built and environmental assets within and adjacent to the park.

“Protection of natural heritage is being advanced through the identification of priority habitats for the most threatened fauna species, such as the Southern Corroboree Frog and for rare vegetation remnants such as rainforest and old growth Alpine Ash forests.

“All plant communities have a tolerance limit or threshold for how often they can be affected by fire. Most need fire but regular, repeated fire can be detrimental to their long term sustainability. This factor must be carefully considered when looking at prescribed burn proposals.

“As well as liaising closely with the adjoining neighbours and bush fire brigades, government agencies and other stakeholders, the NPWS is committed to maintaining its strong working relationship with the local Bush Fire Management Committees. Assessment of fire trails and selection of trails for major works, as well as consideration of future areas for prescribed burning treatments will continue through these committees,” he said.

Kosciuszko National Park is one of Australia’s largest and most well-known parks. It covers an area of approximately 688,846 hectares. It adjoins the ACT to the north, Victoria to the south, and straddles the Great Dividing Range, known in this region as the Snowy Mountains.
In the January 2003 bushfires, 1.87 million hectares across south eastern Australia was burnt including about 69 per cent of Kosciuszko National Park.

The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service will exhibit the Kosciuszko National Park Draft Fire Management Strategy until April 25. It will be available, and on display at the NPWS Queanbeyan, Jindabyne, Khancoban, Bombala and Tumut offices, and the Cooma and Tumut Rural Fire Service offices. It will also be available on http://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/.

All people with an interest in the management of fire in the park are encouraged to make written comments and send them to: The Regional Operations Coordinator, Kosciuszko National Park Draft Fire Management Strategy Submissions, National Parks and Wildlife Service, Snowy Mountains Region. PO Box 2228, Jindabyne, NSW 2627, or via email at knp.fms@environment.nsw.gov.au.