Proactive Tree Management and Clean-up Works

A study of the Yarra Ranges has shown some areas are considered high-risk in terms of bushfire impact. These are more important for the rural areas, where communications can be completely lost if a road is blocked by a fallen tree during a severe weather event or bushfire. 

We have then mapped these areas and arranged for a complete street-by-street review to be done to check the trees and undergrowth on each of these streets to see if they are at risk of falling or dropping limbs. Trees within parks and reserves that pose a risk to human life or property will also be assessed and made safe.

Weed species trees, such as Pittosporum, Acacia Elata and Radiata Pine trees have also been flagged for possible removal if they are threatening nearby power lines, houses or roads. This gives us an opportunity to remove these weed trees from the Shire, thereby lessening the fuel risk they pose during a bushfire. 

Only trees on public land that are near important roads and power lines are being targeted with this program. Trees on private property will not fall under review. 

Some weed species trees, such as Pittosporum, Acacia Elata and Radiata Pine on public land are being removed if they would impact roads, houses or power lines if they were to fall. 

Other public trees that are recognised as a potential hazard to roads, power lines or property are reviewed to see if they can be pruned or would need a complete removal to reduce any future risk they might pose. A prune may remove dead wood or structurally unsound branches or limbs.

A tree that is to be removed will also look at the habitat value they may present to the area. Where possible, trees with a high habitat value will be retained and made safe. 

Ground fuel, such as fallen trees, branches or woody debris, provide additional risks during fire seasons. So we are increasing the fire slash program that runs every year to remove fallen trees, stumps and fallen branches from roadsides and reserves so our mowers can clear areas more effectively.

The timeline for the additional slashing and tree removal is to be completed by April 2025 under the PAC program. All trees will be identified in plenty of time for their removal to be completed by this date. 

The highest priority will be given to those areas that pose the greatest risk to life in the event of a serious bushfire or sever storm event. 

We will be updating this page with regular posts about which area we are looking at next. Keep an eye out for streets in your area.