Wild Wielangta

On 3rd October 2008, three members of Wild Wielangta, South East Forest Protection Group had a 30 minute meeting with David Llewellyn – Minister responsible for Forestry and Threatened Species.

David Llewellyn agreed to send scientists into Coupe 19D and surrounding areas to verify the sightings of swift parrots by community members. He said he would make a decision about logging Coupe 19D once he had obtained information from the scientists.

A reprieve for the parrots for a little bit longer!!!!

Forestry Tasmania have since agreed to stop the logging and woodchipping of Coupe 19D until after the 2008/09 swift parrot breeding season!

This decision is a direct result of survey information provided to Forestry Tasmania by members of the community.

Congratulations! and Thank you!!

Forestry Tasmania are collaborating with the Threatened Species Unit in DPIW and the Forest Practices Authority (who authorise logging plans) to “…carry out a strategic assessment of the Wielangta forests”. (Dr Hans Drielsma, Forestry Tas)

The Forest Practices Authority wants to “…assure us that all parties are working towards ensuring a sound scientific basis for the long term management of habitat for Swift Parrot across its range”.

So, a further reprieve for the forest and residents in Coupe 19D until maybe late January 2009!!!!

The next few months are critical – now is the time to work towards the long term protection of swift parrot breeding habitat in Tasmania.

Be active.

The National Swift Parrot Recovery team are meeting in Hobart in November – so it’s good timing.

Make sure that every one of the 3,000 parrot postcards lands on Premier David Bartlett’s desk.

Write letters to Minister David Llewellyn and Premier David Bartlett asking for the protection of swift parrot habitat.