The ACT Conservator of Flora and Fauna has closed and reopened a number of Parks and Conservation Service estates across the ACT.
The Conservator, Ian Walker said the decision to close some areas was due to a high fire danger rating and excessive smoke, while conditions had improved in other areas.
“This change allows for some of our recreation sites to be reopened while managing the public’s safety in our more remote areas,” Mr Walker said.
“I have made the decision to maintain the closure of our managed estate west of the Murrumbidgee River,” he said.
“Kowen Forest and the Mulligans Flat Sanctuary will be open.”
He said the following reserves would be closed until 27 January: Namadgi National Park (including the Visitor Centre); Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve (including the Visitor Centre); Lower Cotter Catchment; Bullen Range Nature Reserve (west of the river); Stony Creek Nature Reserve (west of the river); Blue Range Forest; Pierces Creek Forest; Hyles and Sherwood Forest; Ingledene Forest; Uriarra Forest (not including picnic areas at Uriarra Crossing); Googong Foreshores; Lower Molonglo River Corridor; and Molonglo Gorge Nature Reserve.
Mr Walker said a ban on naked flames across all ACT Parks and Conservation Service-managed estates remained in place, excluding Cotter Campground, until the end of March.
Five campgrounds are to remain closed for the entire fire season: Woods, Honeysuckle; Orroral; Mt Clear; and Blue Range campgrounds.
Additionally, the following roads in northern Namadgi Park are closed for the season: Old Mill Road; Warks Road; Blundells Creek Road; and Mile High Road.
“Swimming areas at the Cotter and along the Murrumbidgee River such as Kambah Pool, Pine Island, Point Hut and Uriarra Crossing will remain open,” Mr Walker said.
“Electric barbeques provided at the Cotter, Casuarina Sands, Pine Island and in Canberra’s urban parks will be available, while gas barbeques will be turned off.
He said the Canberra Nature Park – including the Mulligans Flat and Goorooyarroo Nature Reserves – and all pine forest areas would be open to the public.
