Two men reported for cutting down native trees

Two men have been reported in relation to Operation Red Gum after being found allegedly cutting down native trees.

On May 29 police were called to Picanninny Lane near Thornlea after receiving reports of two men cutting down a large redgum tree.

Upon police attendance, they located an abandoned vehicle, trailer and chainsaws next to a very large red gum tree (approximately 4m in girth) which recently had been cut down and in the process of being chopped up into firewood.

Police enquiries led to two men, a 53-year-old man and a 38-year-old man, both from Millicent, who were reported for theft and interfering with native habitat.

They will be summonsed to appear in the Millicent Magistrates Court.

Police continue to work with National Parks and Local Government in addressing the increased theft of trees under the LCLSA Operation Red Gum.

Anyone who finds people cutting down trees, or whom can hear chainsaws being operated in forest areas are asked to contact police on 131 444.