Central West Local Land Services Travelling Stock Route (TSR) ranger, Gary Sutton, advises that drovers with cattle may be seen in areas that have not been utilised for some time.
A magnificent season in the southern Lachlan River valley is producing vast amounts of feed and abundant drinking water, according to Mr Sutton, and consequently, cattle owners and drovers are being directed into areas where they are not commonly seen.
“I’d like to use the feed while it is there,” Mr Sutton said.
“This will allow preservation of both feed and water on regular reserves.
“With approval, mobs may graze along council roads, however will continue to operate from, and camp on the reserves.”
Mr Sutton said regional bushfire authorities are also encouraging grazing of these areas to help reduce fuel loads.
“While there are many benefits of returning mobs to these uncommonly used areas, this may cause a few issues,” the ranger said.
“It is hoped early awareness and cooperation from the community will overcome most of these issues.”
Mr Sutton pointed out there are areas where boundary fences and gates have deteriorated over time; therefore, these may need to be managed by landholders.
He also advised motorists to be aware road traffic issues will not be dissimilar; and the community should watch for signage and drive accordingly.
“Landholders expecting visitors or trucks are encouraged to warn that grazing stock are on the road,” Mr Sutton said.
“Landholders surrounding commonly used TSRs should not be alarmed by the excessive annual grass growth.
“It is likely they will see mobs of cattle on the TSR before the real fire danger period is upon us, with three large mobs currently circulating in our area.”
Mr Sutton further advised householders take appropriate action to protect their homes prior to the summer.
“Slashing near homes and infrastructure is appropriate; however poisoning or ploughing large tracts on a reserve is neither legal nor neighbourly,” he said.
The Rural Fire Service will point out where fire risks are greatest and a mob can be sent in that direction to take the steam out of the grass.
“I encourage local fire captains to call us if they would like a mob directed to a certain area to reduce fuel loads,” Mr Sutton said.
