Land-clearing debate tensions run high

Oct. 2, 2014, 4 a.m.

LOCAL tensions are running high ahead of the parliamentary debate on the divisive native vegetation bill that's expected to take place in the next fortnight.

Walgett farmer Cameron Rowntree

LOCAL tensions are running high ahead of the parliamentary debate on the divisive native vegetation bill that's expected to take place in the next fortnight.

The controversial Shooters and Fishers Party amendment was formed in consultation with NSW Farmers and was introduced in May this year.

The bill has faced repeated delays, divided the National Party and inflamed emotions in the wake of the alleged murder of environment officer Glen Turner over a land-clearing dispute in July.

Walgett farmer Cameron Rowntree said NSW Farmers was eager for changes to the "ridiculous" existing land-clearing laws.

"The definition of broadscale clearing has to change one tree is not broadscale clearing,"he said.

He said there was a disparity where residents of Mosman could take chainsaws to their trees because of a bushfire risk, while farmers were heavily restrained by legislation.

"We can't even take out one tree now that's a joke," he said.

Visit link:
Land-clearing debate tensions run high