Vinehealth Australia recently met with representatives from the Department of Environment and Water (DEW) at a meeting hosted by Adelaide Hills Wine Region.
Representatives from the Barossa and McLaren Vale wine associations were also invited, as the Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges prescribed burns areas include these regions.
During the meeting, DEW representatives provided valuable insights into the prescribed burn process, emphasising its importance for maintaining ecological balance and reducing the risk of uncontrolled wildfires. They highlighted how these controlled burns are carefully planned and executed to minimise impact on the environment and surrounding communities.
One of the outcomes of this meeting was DEW’s commitment to share a detailed map with Vinehealth Australia outlining the specific areas in the Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges where prescribed burns are scheduled to take place. With this information, Vinehealth Australia will be able to identify which registered vineyard owners have vineyards located within the potential fire scar or smoke-affected areas.
To ensure that all affected vineyard owners are well-informed, Vinehealth Australia has emailed and mailed those with vineyards that fall within these areas. The communications include important information and a reminder to register on the DEW website for updates on prescribed burns. This registration will enable vineyard owners to receive timely notifications from DEW and stay informed about any developments that may impact their vineyards.
Prescribed burns are likely to take place in autumn and spring. Given that harvest is earlier this year, grapes near a prescribed burn will hopefully have been harvested. If not, registered vineyard owners can contact Vinehealth Australia or the Fire Management team for Adelaide and Mount Lofty Ranges for assistance.
Vinehealth Australia is committed to supporting the wine community by ensuring that registered vineyard owners have access to the latest information and resources. By working closely with DEW and other stakeholders, Vinehealth aims to mitigate the impact of prescribed burns on vineyards and help vineyard owners navigate this essential ecological practice.
For more information or to register for prescribed burns updates, please visit the Department for Environment and Water – Fire management website or contact Vinehealth Australia directly.