11 January 2013

Logging to begin in Arapuke Forest Park

Harvest operations in Arapuke Forest Park will start again on Monday 14 January 2013.

This is the third year of the harvest which will see Council owned timber milled for domestic and international markets.

Arapuke Forest Park will be closed to all recreational users every week day during the harvest period and only open on weekends and statutory holidays.

The Sledge Track will not be affected by the logging and will remain open. The Back Track which is a popular track with mountain bikers and trampers will also remain open although it will be restricted to a ‘there and back’ route during week days. Care should be taken while using the Back Track due to walkers and cyclists travelling in both directions.

Palmerston North City Council forester Mark Johnston says the Park is a dangerous place during the harvesting season. “While it’s great to see people out using the tracks during the weekends, they need to take care to avoid any work areas where there is heavy machinery or piles of logs.”

Due to an increase in logging trucks Mark Johnston says the Council is calling on non-Scotts Road residents to avoid using Scotts Road during the week.

Harvesting will continue through to Friday 3 May 2013.

ENDS

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