Post by imadogman on Mar 21, 2014 20:40:03 GMT 10
Some positive news coming out of forestry corporation about NSW State Forest Permits.
The guts of it is that following lots of feedback from the public, members of internet forums and NAPFA, the Forestry Corporation of NSW (FCNSW) has improved its permit system for fossicking in NSW State forests.
From late March 2014, people will be able to apply at www.forestrycorporation.com.au for a single 12-minth permit that allows them to fossick in approved areas of State forests throughout NSW, replacing the old system that required people to obtain permits on a regional basis.
Regional permits that are currently valid may be used State-wide until they expire, providing the holder visits the FCNSW website to review any updated conditions and download the most up-to-date maps showing where fossicking is permitted.
The new annual State-wide permits will cost $25 plus GST in 2014, with the cost to increase incrementally to $35 plus GST in 2016. The permit fees allow FCNSW to cover administration costs. The small increase recognises that the new permits are valid across NSW and will represent a saving for people fossicking in more than one region.
In addition, FCNSW has expanded the permit to allow a family group with a maximum of five people (2 adults and 3 children under 18 years of age) to fossick under a single permit. If you are fossicking in a group or club, each member or family group must hold a permit. Alternatively, clubs may contact their local regional office to apply through the Forest Permit system for a permit to cover single events.
When in State forests, fossickers must adhere to all relevant legislation, guidelines, permit conditions and maps showing where they can and can't fossick. This information is available online.
This is a good outcome for fossickers in NSW and shows the benefit of being involved directly, via forums, or via NAPFA. (Now is always a good time to join-up!) NAPFA has been plugging away on this issue for about 12 months.
If enough people make enough noise then THINGS CAN CHANGE. Apathy, however, won't change a thing!
Cheers
Stephen
President
NAPFA