Fire risk and erosion control trial
The area along Forest Park Drive where dead trees and branches were mulched to reduce fire risk
Walkers on the Wither Hills Farm Park will have noticed large-scale works under and around the trees on the lower slopes near walking tracks adjacent to Forest Park Drive.
A trial to reduce fire risk from excessive dry fuel loading has been underway through this tree block.
Previously the area had significant numbers of dead and dying trees as well as fallen branches which formed a significant risk during dry summer periods. Additionally, huge numbers of self-seeded wattles were stunting and suffocating existing trees, which compromised the sustainability of the block and had resulted in large areas of bare, eroding soil.
Any useful lengths of firewood are being removed and donated to the Blenheim Lions Club for their firewood programme while the remaining brush was mulched into the soil to support existing trees. While the area looks a little bare, grass is starting to emerge under the remaining tree canopy and the area should look mostly recovered by the end of November.
So far there has been an overwhelming positive response from local residents and park users.
A comprehensive report on trial results will be done in spring when the trial finishes.
