A Forest Management Plan (prepared in accordance with the Conservation and Land Management Act 1984) is the overarching framework to protect and manage forests on public lands in our state’s south-west. The Forest Management Plan 2024-2033 (FMP), prepared by the Conservation and Parks Commission (through the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions - DBCA) commenced on 1 January 2024, following consultation with the community.

The FMP applies to 2.5 million hectares of lands vested in the Conservation and Parks Commission (Commission) from Lancelin to Denmark of which, over 60% is existing or proposed conservation reserves, or otherwise protected areas. The FMP provides foundations for management partnerships with Noongar Traditional Owners, biodiversity conservation, forest health and climate resilience, and social and economic opportunities. The plan gives effect to the State Government commitment to cease commercial timber harvesting of native south-west forests.

The FMP will be implemented using an adaptive management approach based on continual evidence and learning from a Forest Health Monitoring Program (FHMP). Assessment of the plan’s key performance indicators will be published at years 5 and 10 of plan implementation. The effectiveness the plan’s management activities will be evaluated every two years. Research into fire behaviour and fire ecology will also be undertaken over the term of the plan to inform fire management strategies.

The Commission will seek public comment during the periodic assessment processes to inform the FMP’s implementation and proposed responses to any shortfall in performance measures.