REDLAND City Council has moved to track down people clearing mangroves on bay islands, putting up surveillance cameras in hot spots.
A council spokeswoman said that in the wake of mangrove destruction on Russell Island, council also had asked the state government if it would do the same.
“Where mangrove damage occurs adjacent to council land, we will also look at options for signage to educate the community,’’ she said. “Council has no authority to install signage on other land tenures.’’
The move comes after more than 900 square metres of mangrove trees were poisoned, cut down and lopped off Wiles Street on Russell Island, prompting the state government to threaten major fines.
Southern Moreton Bay Island Coastcare group secretary Jettie Berkhout called on council and the Fisheries Department to crack down on the illegal practice.
The council spokeswoman said the investigation of illegal clearing of mangroves and any resulting prosecution was the jurisdiction of Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol.
This included the Russell Island clearing. Council worked in partnership with the department.
“Council condemns any vandalism or damage to mangroves,’’ she said. “As recently as 5 September, council and QBFP put out a media call for community assistance in investigating damage to wetlands at Wellington Point.
“In addition to the large fines in place, we have also previously trialled cameras, signage and screens to deter vandals.
“...Unfortunately waterfront clearing is an ongoing enforcement issue.’’
Ms Berkhout, who has called on council to erect signage where the Russell Island mangroves were cleared, said owners of land that adjoined mangroves had some obligation to prevent damage to that area according to the fisheries website.
She said council had put up a sign on Coochiemudlo Island which not only informed the population but mentioned a council fine of $5000.
The council spokeswoman said if residents observed any disturbance to mangroves and other marine plants, they should report it to Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol on 13 25 23.
People should report tree vandalism above the tidal zone to council on 3829 8999.
