Dogs have been prohibited from the eastern side of Lake Ainsworth by Ballina Shire Council (BSC) in a bid to maintain and preserve the sensitive ecological location.
‘With the Lake Ainsworth Foreshore Improvement Works almost complete the Lake is looking better than ever, and we want to keep it that way. We want everyone visiting the Lake to enjoy its natural beauty for years to come, which means we must protect it,’ said Ms Kristy Bell, Acting Manager Public and Environmental Health.
Deadly impact of flea and tick treatments
‘The BSC have started looking into the impact of neonicotinoids in relation to bees and bee hive collapse and as part of that investigation it has been found that some of the dog flea and tick repellents that are applied externally can kill aquatic life,’ BSC Councillor Keith Williams told Echonetdaily.
Mr Williams highlighted the importance of ensuring the health of the lake and its wildlife.
‘In particular fipronil that is applied as drops externally and possibly some products used on the collars can kill aquatic wildlife. They only need to be present ini parts per billion to have an impact on the aquatic wildlife in Lake Ainsworth as it can build up in the lake over time. This issue also comes up in terms of coastal management planning.’
To ensure dogs and their owners don’t miss out BSC have extended the off-leash area north of the Lennox Head – Alstonville Surf Life Saving Club.
‘Our rangers have been in the local area speaking to local dog owners over the past few weeks to help explain and educate the community about these changes. We will also install signage within the area to inform dog owners,’ added Ms Bell.
Off-leash dog areas across Ballina Shire, include:
- Bicentennial Gardens, the northern area of the reserve, Ballina
- Compton Drive, East Ballina
- Gap Road, Alstonville
- Seven Mile Beach, north of Lennox Head – Alstonville Surf Life Saving Club
- Ballina Heights Estate, eastern reserve area, Ballina Heights
- Headlands Drive Drainage Reserve, Skennars Head
- The Spit, Ballina
For more information and to view the full map visit ballina.nsw.gov.au
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