Concerns over death of iconic eucalypts in WA's 'last great wilderness'
Residents are raising concerns about the death of salmon gums in Western Australia's Great Western Woodlands, urging for an investigation into the environmental impact of local activities.
Residents in Kalgoorlie-Boulder, a city in Western Australia, are voicing their concerns over the declining health of salmon gums in the Great Western Woodlands, the largest temperate woodland globally. A local resident, Phil Stanley, has been calling for an investigation for over five years, observing that many of these iconic trees are dying and instead of naturally falling, they are being cut down for firewood.
Stanley emphasizes the ecological significance of the Great Western Woodlands, which encompass nearly 16 million hectares of bushland and serve as a vital habitat. He has pointed out that this area is increasingly threatened by human activities, notably burning and mining practices that jeopardize its integrity. The loss of these trees not only diminishes the scenic landscape but also disrupts the local ecosystem.
Experts in environmental science underscore the urgency of the situation, urging that investigations be conducted into the factors contributing to the decline of these vital trees. The implications of the dying salmon gums extend beyond aesthetic concerns; they pose potential risks to biodiversity in the area and the overall health of the Woodland. Addressing these issues is crucial to preserving one of Australia’s natural treasures and ensuring its future resilience.