While trees are admired and have life giving benefits they can also be killers if not respected and considered as we enjoy their presence in the landscape.

Narrandera Landcare is currently keen to provide warning to people to be very careful near large trees.

Narrandera is blessed to have large stands of native trees with thousands of lovely trees to admire.

“We all marvel at the lovely form of a tree, its bark, flowers and leaves which gives great pleasure and comfort to people,” the Landcare spokesperson said.

“Trees also provide roosting and habitat for many plants, birds, animals and insects that make up the critical ecosystems that we depend on.

“We know that trees draw in carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and emit oxygen which our lives depend on and they are critical to managing climate change consequences.

“Research experts have even concluded that trees positively contribute to human wellbeing, and we are dependant on trees for our survival. However, trees can be deadly if they fall on unsuspecting people.”

There are some basic rules to follow when walking under or camping beneath trees.

Narrandera Landcare President Peter Beal said that due to the prolonged flooding that has occurred over vast tracts of NSW and Victoria, many large trees are at risk of falling with potential tragic consequences.

For example, several large trees have fallen down in riparian areas around Narrandera where there is frequent visitation by people enjoying our walking track network.

Mr Beal said as we approach the Easter break and people like to go camping the risk of trees falling is a real concern.

He said while a large tree may provide lovely shade over a campsite, the soil around the tree root mass can be weakened by recent flooding and now drier conditions, they can easily fall at any time of the day or night.

Additionally, it does not have to be windy for a tree to fall. River Red Gums often fall on still days so campers and bushwalkers should never be complacent.

Camp site selection should be assessed for a variety of potential dangers such as potential water inundation, accumulated combustible grass material, vehicle access and exit should an emergency occur and where trees are in close proximity to people and camping equipment.

To ensure safety, campers should erect tents, vans, and shelters at least the distance of estimated length of tree trunk away to be safe.

“For example, if the tree trunk is 15metres long in height the camp site should be at least a minimum of 15 metre radius away from the tree,” Mr Beal said.

“Being mindful of the habits of trees and what weather conditions prevail could absolutely save yours, your families’ and friends lives. Safe camping and being aware of risks associated to trees will help ensure your Easter break is memorable for all the right reasons.”

This article appeared in the Narrandera Argus, 6 April 2023.