Move sheep to low risk paddocks in bushfire season

bush-fireWith the arrival of summer Hunter Local Land Services is urging landholders to plan how they will to protect their livestock from bush fires.

Hunter landholders should ensure they have a plan to manage livestock and animals in the event of a bush fire, says Emergency Management Officer Skye Moore.

“Being prepared for a bush fire can help landholders protect themselves, their livestock and their property,” Ms Moore said.

“If a landholder has to leave quickly, they will need to leave their livestock in the safest paddock on the property. Landholders should ensure they prepare a suitable designated area to use in the event a bush fire occurs.”

In partnership with NSW Department of Primary Industries, Hunter Local Land Services is responsible for the coordination of agriculture and animal services in emergencies.

In periods of very high fire danger rating, it is recommended that landholders keep up to date with Rural Fire Service advice. Ideally:

  • livestock should be moved to an eaten-out paddock, irrigated pasture or bare yards with a cleared or ploughed perimeter
  • sheep should be moved to a low risk paddock or confined area such as sheep yards surrounded by a bare area, and be moved early
  • horses should be transported off the property early or agisted if they can’t be kept safe during a bush fire
  • care should be taken with horses so they are not locked in an area where they may panic and hurt themselves. A large sand yard is suitable if there are no flammable buildings or vegetation nearby
  • livestock should be easily identifiable in the event fences are destroyed and stock escape.

Ms Moore encouraged landholders to:

  • keep an eye on the weather
  • familiarise themselves with the Rural Fire Service’s fire danger ratings and bush fire alert levels
  • be aware of fire bans and restrictions
  • download useful apps, such MyFirePlan, Fires Near Me and Live Traffic NSW