Native Trees Deliberately Destroyed Along Collingwood Beach
Published on 15 November 2021
Shoalhaven City Council has recently become aware of ongoing tree and vegetation vandalism at Collingwood Beach. Council treats tree and vegetation vandalism seriously and is currently investigating this issue.
Council’s Director of City Development, Phil Costello, said that deliberate tree or vegetation vandalism, no matter how minor, has a significant impact on the local environment and is contrary to the values of the greater community.
“Vegetation growing on dune systems protects nearby infrastructure from erosion and provides crucial habitat for many endemic animal species. Coastal dunes provide very important protection against coastal hazards such as wind erosion, excessive wave action and tidal overruns during storm events,” Mr Costello said.
Mr Costello said that “any assistance from members of the public would be greatly appreciated and rewards are on offer where the information provided may lead to the identification of the individuals responsible”.
Council is encouraging residents to take an active approach in understanding the need for coastal areas to remain in a natural vegetated condition and assist us to protect not only the natural environment, but in the longer-term people’s homes and properties.
In accordance with Council’s Shoalhaven Tree and Vegetation Vandalism Prevention Policy, reports of vandalism can be made online, by phone or in person.