Jarrah trees felled illegally

Jarrah trees have been felled illegally in Great Southern forests, prompting a warning from the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions regarding firewood collection.

Parks and Wildlife Service district manager Cameron Shaw said it was suspected that the illegally collected firewood, from 30 felled jarrah trees, had then been sold commercially in Denmark and Albany.

“The trees that were cut down provided valuable habitat for the Baudin’s cockatoo, a threatened species,” he said.

“The cockatoo relies on standing trees for food and shelter, and they need old tree hollows to breed.

“Apart from specially designated areas, there are a number of other ways in which to collect firewood legally, such as applying for a Commercial Producer’s Licence if the wood is being sourced from private property.”

He said it could also be bought from contracted suppliers.