NSW Government on track in the River Red Gums

October 1, 2009

Premier Nathan Rees today welcomed the release of the first independent assessment report by the Natural Resources Commission on the River Red Gum and Woodland Forests.

“Our timetable for the River Red Gums is on track and now is the time for everyone to participate,” Mr Rees said.

“The NSW Government asked the Commission to report back with an interim assessment on the River Red Gum and Woodland Forests by September 30 and that is exactly what they’ve done.

“The release of this report is an important step forward in understanding the complex environmental, social and economic issues associated with the River Red Gum forests.

“The Natural Resources Commission’s role in producing this independent assessment is to bring a broader perspective to the debate, analysing what are complex environmental and ecological issues.

“I would encourage everyone interested to have their say - we want to ensure we have a transparent and thorough community consultation process.

“The more engaged the community is in these issues, the better the outcome will be for the future of the River Red Gums.

“The Government will make a decision on the long term future of the region that balances the interests of local communities, industries and the environment.”

Minister for Climate Change and the Environment John Robertson said the wetland ecosystems in the River Red Gum forests are currently under threat from continuing drought and reduced water flows which are being compounded by climate change.

“The NRC process will contribute to the protection of the some of the most environmentally significant areas of the state for years to come,” Mr Robertson said.

Minister for Primary Industries Ian Macdonald said the assessment being undertaken by the NRC will also make recommendations on a sustainable future for the forest industry and local communities.

“Forests NSW and other Industry & Investment agencies have been working closely on the provision of information, providing expert contextual information and facilitating tours of the red gum forests with the NRC members, with FNSW staff, industry and Aboriginal organisations,” Mr Macdonald said.

The Natural Resources Commission has called for public responses to the report to be submitted by October 23 and is required to deliver its final report on the River Red Gum Forests to the Government on 30 November.