Rehabilitation work continues on endangered Blue Gum High Forest

Rehabilitation work on 2.8 hectares of the critically endangered Blue Gum High Forest continues at Castle Hill’s Heritage Park.

Less than 5% of this rare forest – consisting of tall trees (almost 30 metres in height), as well as shrubs, ferns and vines – still exists across Sydney.

Patches of the forest that do remain are often impacted by introduced weeds and pest animals, and rubbish dumping.

To ensure the forest can be enjoyed by local residents and visitors to the area, 0.6 hectares of woody weeds is currently being removed from along the creek line by bushland regeneration contractors as part of the rehabilitation project. This important work will then be followed by two years of bush regeneration.

The Hills Shire Mayor, Dr Michelle Byrne said visitors to the historic park will notice the work being carried out adding “you will see some areas around the creek where it’s looking a bit bare.

“We are removing weeds, such as Privet and Lantana, to help our Blue Gum High Forest to regenerate and flourish.

“This will in turn encourage local wildlife to return to the area and ensure the survival of this critically endangered forest.”

Council was awarded a grant of $81,030 by the NSW Environmental Trust to carry out this vital work over a three-year period.

Image: Mayor Byrne in Castle Hill Heritage Park