Farmers warned about burning waste
As cooler weather returns, EPA Victoria is reminding farmers not to burn waste along with their pruning and timber materials.
Advertisement
EPA Regional Operations Director Martha-Rose Loughnane says the agency received multiple reports last year of farms, orchards, and vineyards illegally mixing treated timbers, plastics, and other waste into their burn offs.
“We issued several reminders last year after receiving reports of farms, orchards and vineyards mixing their legitimate burn off materials with waste like treated timbers, plastics and other common farm waste that should have gone to a licensed landfill or recycling facility,” said Ms Loughnane.
She warns that burning waste is illegal and can result in fines of more than $9,000.
“Disposal of waste by burning is illegal. Common farm waste, like treated pine posts, agricultural plastics, hessian, concrete, metal, waste tyres and mattresses, must be disposed of lawfully and at a place that is licensed to accept it,” she said.
EPA says smoke from burning farm waste poses serious health risks, especially to vulnerable groups like the elderly, children, pregnant women and people with lung conditions.
“No smoke is good for you, but smoke from burning farm waste like old tyres and treated timber can lead to harmful effects on human health,” Ms Loughnane said.
The agency is encouraging landowners to use its online guide to ensure they only burn vegetation-sourced matter, such as crop stubble and timber. Mixing in other items may trigger penalties.
The EPA’s farm waste management guide is available at epa.vic.gov.au, and pollution can be reported 24/7 by calling 1300 372 842 or online.
