CASTLEMAINE and Chewton residents could be spared the lingering smell of smoke that often accompanies the controlled burn period, after coming up with alternatives to reduce bushfire risk.
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The community has been working with the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning to identify areas where mulching and grooming could replace burning.
Using a mechanical mulcher, a significant portion of vegetation across 25 hectares near the two towns has been reduced.
Murray Goldfields district manager Paul Bates said while planned burns will still take place near the towns, the mulching works has greatly reduced the reliance on fire.
“The community feedback, combined with our scientific analysis and experience with vegetation in the area, meant that we could respond to the community’s request by embarking on a large scale mulching program,” he said.
“Mulching and grooming works can be an effective fuel management option where the terrain and vegetation are suitable.”
