Trees planted by community on Wilsons River banks vandalised
MORE than 20 trees that were recently planted by the community have been hacked at and cut down.
The trees were planted on the western bank of the Wilsons River, below the Ballina Road bridge in Lismore on May 16 under the supervision of WetlandCare Australia and through funding from North Coast Local Land Services.
Most of the trees had grown to three metres and were helping to stabilise the eroding riverbank.
As well as stabilising eroding riverbanks, native vegetation provides terrestrial and aquatic habitat, and improves visual amenity, water quality, fish stocks and recreational fishing.
The area is managed by Richmond River County Council and Lismore City Council.
Garry Owers, Floodplain Project Officer with Richmond River County Council said riparian restoration works were currently occurring on the Wilsons River at the southern side of the Ballina Road bridge.
"We ask that the community keep an eye on the area and report anyone damaging vegetation to Lismore City Council," he said.
Security measures are being implemented to deter future vandalism.
