Tree coverage in Queensland has increased by almost twice the size of the Australian Capital Territory in just three years, according to study data released by Queensland broadacre farm group AgForce.

AgForce general president Grant Maudsley said a study by farmers showed State Government Ministers and green groups were ignoring data behind vegetation management.

“The fact is that trees grow, and right now they are re-growing at a much faster rate than they are being managed,” Mr Maudsley said.

“The State Government’s own data, shows that tree coverage in Queensland increased by 437,000 hectares between 2012-to-2014.

“Moves by the State Government to reject simple data and repeal the current vegetation management laws are the biggest threat to Queensland farmers since the Gillard Government smashed the cattle export trade in 2011.

“The results for Queensland consumers will be more expensive fresh produce and loss of jobs. Meat processors have already started putting off staff because of a slow-down in domestic cattle supply as Australia’s cattle herd hits a 20-year low.”

The Statewide Landcover and Trees Study shows clearing rates increased to 296,000 hectares in 2013-14. Despite the clearing, the amount of tree coverage still increased by 437,000 hectares.

The study also shows that retained woody vegetation cover has increased from 74 per cent to 76 per cent across the 52 million hectares that make up the crucial six reef catchment regions.

Mr Maudsley said AgForce members and local residents will meet in Mareeba next week to discuss the impact of changes to vegetation management on Far North Queensland’s economy.

“Attempts to link tree coverage to law changes which occurred after the reporting period is some of the most deceitful and dishonest advocacy I’ve ever seen,” he said. “Farmers are using the current laws to manage the regrowth generated by above-average wet years during 2010 to 2012.

“Queensland landholders should not be subjected to punitive laws, promoted by State politicians who fail to back up their claims with scientific evidence.”

Tree coverage increased in 51 of 77 council areas across Queensland with significant increases in Far North and North West Queensland, including Cook Shire (an additional 237,000 hectares), Carpentaria (229,000 hectares), Burke (85,000 hectares) and Mareeba (40,000 hectares).

This was offset by reductions in vegetation in Desert Channels and South Western Queensland due to drought and mulga being used as cattle feed. The largest reductions occurred in Paroo Shire (256,000 hectares), Barcoo (166,000 hectares) and Boulia (146,000 hectares).

Source: AgForce Qld