The City of Busselton is investigating allegations of illegal clearing surrounding Toby Inlet.
A Quindalup resident contacted the city after hearing machinery near their property and then witnessing the aftermath. It is alleged at least two mature Peppermint Trees and a line of shrubbery down to the water front were removed.
City of Busselton Environmental Services manager Tanya Gillett said the city immediately launched an investigation when it was alerted to the reports of vegetation clearing from concerned residents last week.
“Residents in the vicinity of the illegal clearing were interviewed and the city is pursuing some useful leads,” she said.
The City of Busselton coordinates the management of Toby Inlet with support from the Department of Water, Water Corporation, Busselton Water, the Toby Inlet Catchment Group and GeoCatch.
Ms Gillett said unfortunately this wasn’t the first report of clearing in the area and, given the sensitive environment of Toby Inlet, this circumstance was disheartening.
“The removal of mature Peppermint Trees, which are a home for native fauna including the endangered Western Ringtail Possum, is particularly disappointing,” she said.
“Unfortunately incidences of killing or tampering with trees and illegal vegetation removal are not rare and several incidences have been reported recently, particularly in the Quindalup area, although we don’t believe they are necessarily related.
“The city is dealing with an increasing number of these incidences which are often carried out by residents seeking to improve their view or access to their property or to nearby natural features or facilities.”
Ms Gillett said the city was still considering all of its options in this case.
“Those found responsible for illegal clearing of vegetation on publicly owned land can be prosecuted and may face fines,” she said.
“As a general course of action the city will also erect a sign noting that vegetation has been removed illegally. In effect this sign blocks the view reducing any benefit that may have otherwise been gained from the destruction of the vegetation.
“Clearing or tampering with any vegetation on any land under the ownership, care or control of the city is illegal without first obtaining the permission to do so from the city.”
