Two incidents of illegal land clearing near Stawell and Ararat could devastate endangered orchid species, Parks Victoria’s area chief ranger David Roberts said.
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Parks Victoria is investigating the matter.
Mr Roberts said the land clearing including “significant” scalping of the soil at Deep Lead Nature Conservation Reserve.
“We’ll be exploring options for fines and prosecution for this illegal activity,” he said.
“Victoria’s parks and reserves are protected because of their conservation importance. In particular, Deep Lead Conservation Reserve protects a fragile and threatened species of orchid that grows in just a couple of locations in Australia.
“We’re pleased that members of the public are reporting prohibited activity, and helping protect our outdoor places.”
Mr Roberts said prospecting was popular in the Box Ironbark forests of Central Victoria. “Advice on where you can and can’t prospect is available on the Parks Victoria website or by calling 13 1963,” he said.
