Those responsible for logging a large swathe of the Arve Forest Reserve in southern Tasmania must be prosecuted, Greens Senator Bob Brown said today.
 
"This is an environmental crime and a breach of Tasmanian law, which requires that Forest Practices plans must be adhered to. The penalty for not abiding by a Forest Practices Plan is $100,000," Senator Brown said.
 
'The wood-chipping profits from destroying more than four hectares of this high conservation value reserve, which is also an important tourist asset on the way to the Tahune Airwalk, should be confiscated," Senator Brown said.
 
"The excuses of 'we didn't know' or 'it was an accident' don't wash. Just as such excuses don't wash for people caught speeding, drunk, or otherwise breaking the law."
 
"The police must be called in to nail those responsible," Senator Brown added.
 
Further information: Ebony Bennett 0409 164 603