ACT Parks and Conservation Service is urging residents to report the illegal collection of firewood from the territory's reserves as cold Canberrans begin lighting their fireplaces.
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Ranger in charge of the Murrumbidgee river corridor, Shelley Swain, said each year rangers discover the removal of trees from across nature reserves and on other public land.
"Sadly, some people are unaware of the dangers and environmental impacts of cutting down trees or collecting fallen timber for firewood," she said.
"Fallen trees and branches form a vital part of the ecosystem by providing animal habitats, returning nutrients to the soil and encouraging revegetation and it is therefore important that people do not remove native timber from reserves."
The maximum penalty for cutting down native trees or removing native timber from public land is $7,500 per individual and $37,500 per corporation.
Ms Swain encouraged cold Canberrans to purchase firewood from a licensed vendor and report anyone removing wood illegally.
"While we have a number of remote surveillance cameras in operation at parks and reserves across the ACT and our rangers keep an eye out for illegal activity, we really appreciate the public's vigilance in helping us prevent future incidents," she said.
To report the illegal collection of firewood, contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or Canberra Connect on 13 22 81.
