Bushfire Mitigation
As part of The Shire of Gnowangerup’s Bushfire Risk Management Plan (BRMP), qualified staff have completed a bushfire risk assessment of all built assets within the Shire. Results of this assessment show that fuel loads and the proximity of Shire reserves to residential properties/critical infrastructure, are impactful on the bushfire risk rating of properties located in the area. These risk ratings require action by the Shire.
To achieve this, we undertake prescribed burning and mechanical treatments on Shire managed reserves. This work is funded though the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) Bushfire Risk Management Branch, and Local Governments with an approved Bushfire Risk Management Plan can apply for a Mitigation Activity Fund (MAF) Grant of up to $500,000 annually.
Mechanical treatments are carried out by contractors, following our thorough planning process which includes obtaining relevant environmental permits and a consultation process with key stakeholders.
Related Documents
Prescribed Burns
Prescribed burns may also be referred to as a hazard reduction burn, planned burn, controlled burn, or burn off.
Prescribed burning is undertaken on Shire owned and managed land by the Shire’s Fire and Emergency Services unit along with assistance from DFES staff, local Volunteer Bushfire and Fire and Rescue Brigades.
Prescribed burns require a significant level of planning and preparation prior to the day of the burn. Predetermined weather conditions and other contributing factors strongly dictate if a burn will or will not go ahead. While we do make all efforts to provide residents with prior notification of a prescribed burn, this also means we may commence or cancel a burn with minimal notice.
Prior to ignition our burn will always be registered with DFES and displayed on the Emergency WA website.
If you see smoke or an unattended fire, are uncertain of the cause and cannot find any information on Emergency WA DIAL 000 and report the fire so that appropriate action can be taken.
2023-2024 Prescribed Machine and Burn Mitigation Program
Shire reserves with high fuel loads near to critical infrastructure and residential properties will be prioritised. Planned mitigation works are detailed in the maps on this page. Methods this year will include.
- Parkland Clearing- This method involves removing understory vegetation and debris to minimise overall fuel loads and reduce flame length and radiant heat in the event of bushfire.
- Planned burns- Burning predetermined areas under appropriate environmental conditions to reduce fuel loads.
Please Note: Prescribed burns are indicative plans only and are subject to change.
More information and contact
You can find out more about planned burning on private and government land on the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) website.
Daniel Biddulph
daniel.biddulph@jerramungup.wa.gov.au
0499 351 232