Baird urges cool heads over land clearing

AAP NSW Premier Mike Baird has called for calm following the shooting death of an environment officer.

NSW Premier Mike Baird has called for cool heads to prevail after the shooting death of an environment officer sparked fresh debate over land clearing laws.

Farmer Ian Robert Turnbull, 79, is accused of killing environment officer Glen Turner in northern NSW on Tuesday.

Mr Turner, 51, was carrying out duties related to land clearing north of Moree at Croppa Creek when he was allegedly murdered.

NSW Deputy Premier Andrew Stoner has criticised land clearing rules since the death.

But Mr Baird says that's the wrong attitude.

"The events we saw are tragic and when you see something like this emotions bubble to the top and commentary will follow," he told reporters in Ashcroft in Sydney's southwest on Friday.

"Supporting this family and completing the criminal case, that's the priority.

"The onus is on everyone to have a cool head."

Turnbull was charged with murder and refused bail on Wednesday. The case was adjourned to August 5.

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Baird urges cool heads over land clearing