Forest management zones set priorities and permitted uses in different parts of State forest. Many of the management strategies developed in the
Forest Management Plans are expressed through zoning decisions which either set aside areas from timber harvesting or which permit harvesting or other activities to continue under specified conditions.
The zoning system consolidates and integrates information and management requirements from many sources. In developing the zoning system, DEPI aim to establish a
Comprehensive, Adequate and Representative (CAR) forest reserve system in accordance with nationally agreed criteria.
Management guidelines for a number of flora and fauna species considered rare or threatened have been incorporated into the zoning system, as have any Action Statements from the schedules within the
Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988.
DEPI seeks to integrate zoning decisions with the aim of ensuring the zoning system maximises conservation values in the special protection zone while at the same time minimising impacts on forest industries.
General Management Zone
The General Management Zone (GMZ) is managed for a range of uses and values, with the sustainable production of timber and other forest products being a major use. Associated aims include protection of landscape, provision of recreation and educational opportunities, fire protection and conservation of natural values to complement adjacent zones. Within the GMZ there are areas that are excluded from harvesting operations due to the requirements of the
Code of Practice for Timber Production. These areas include stream buffers and slopes generally greater than 30°.
Special Management Zone
The Special Management Zone (SMZ) areas cover a range of natural or cultural values and are managed to conserve specific features. The protection or enhancement of these values requires modification to timber harvesting or other land use practices rather than their exclusion. The zone contributes substantially to the conservation of important species, particularly fauna, as well as encompassing landscape values and water management issues. Timber and other forest produce may be harvested from this zone under certain conditions.
Special Protection Zone
The Special Protection Zone (SPZ) is managed for conservation. Larger components of the zone are based on representative examples of vegetation communities and old growth, as well as localities of key threatened and sensitive flora and fauna species. Each component of this zone is managed to minimise disturbances or processes that threaten their respective values, and timber harvesting is excluded.
