Parks Victoria is closing sections of various National Parks this week as part of an ongoing conservation program to control feral goats.
Total Grazing Management Coordinator at Parks Victoria, Brendan Rodgers said sections of Wyperfeld National Park, Murray-Kulkyne Park, Annuello, Wathe; Bronzewing and Paradise Flora and Fauna Reserves are being closed while the aerial goat control program was underway.
“Feral goats in Mallee parks and reserves have a negative impact on native vegetation through overgrazing, physical damage to plants, erosion and spreading weeds and diseases,” Mr Rodgers said.
“They compete with native fauna for food, water and shelter,” he said.
“This program will allow native vegetation to re-establish in the areas where goats have cleared it, reducing the threat of erosion problems.”
He said Parks Victoria was using highly skilled professionals to undertake the operations during daylight hours only.
“The operations will be thoroughly planned and carried out under strict conditions designed to ensure safe, effective and humane practices,” Mr Rodgers said.
“This program is crucial to restoring habitat and improving overall landscape health.”
He said closure signs would be in place at all entry points in the areas while the program was underway.
Mr Rodgers said it was the last time the program would be able to run this year, before goats disperse in the cooler months.
