More farm maintenance codes updated for landholders

Rural producers are being asked for their views on updated guidelines for low-risk essential clearing to maintain their properties.

Natural Resources Minister Dr Anthony Lynham said three codes --- for weeds, encroachment and necessary environmental clearing --- had been updated with the latest science and were now available online for input.

“This is delivering on an election commitment Labor gave to Queensland farmers in 2015,” Dr Lynham said.

“We said we would keep these codes as long as they stood up to scientific review, because they allow farmers to get on with the job,” he said.

“Scientists at the Queensland Herbarium had reviewed the codes, and the CSIRO has reviewed their work.

“The updates include sensible changes such as simplified definitions and clearer time frames.

“We’ve always acted on good science.”

The three codes are part of a suite of 10 accepted development codes. The codes allow landholders to self-assess their activities and don’t require approvals.

Landholders are simply required to notify the Department of Natural Resources, Mines and Energy online.

Landholders have made more than 225 free notifications since March under the fodder harvesting code, which allows landholders to harvest mulga to feed stock.

Dr Lynham said his department would provide information about the proposed code changes to all landholders who had notified about clearing under the latest three codes.

The remaining six codes will be reviewed and released for feedback over the next six months.

Visit www.getinvolved.qld.gov.au to have your say until 19 October.

Dr Lynham said landholders with questions about vegetation management should contact the Charleville-based veg hub on 135 VEG.

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Media inquiries: Jan Martin 0439 341 314

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