Within the Region there are approximately 180,000 hectares of land suited to softwood production and 6,000 hectares suitable for hardwood production. There are currently almost 60,000 hectares of pine and 5,000 hectares of eucalypt plantation in the region. In addition, there is an estimated 90,000 hectares of private forest that could be managed for timber production. In Bega and Bombala private plantations occupy less than 2% of the land within the shires.
Trees planted on farms improve productivity by providing shade and shelter for livestock, pastures and crops. Well designed timber belts can reduce the spread of weed seeds and enhance the quality of habitat and wildlife corridors. Why not grow trees to supply your own firewood & fence posts rather than relying on other sources?
Trees on farms provide an alternative income source and contribute to economic and sustainable catchment management.
Plantations can have a beneficial impact on soils. Trees are deep feeders and nutrient recyclers, so that nitrogen levels under plantations may be maintained while total phosphorus and carbon levels may be increased.
Plantation forests represent less than 1% of Australia’s forests, yet they supply over half the wood used domestically.
