Legality of digging up saplings in Victoria?

[mb1029]

does anyone know the legality of digging up small saplings in victoria?

i'm curious what is and what isn't legal

i planned on going into the country abit and looking around the side of the roads(if that's legal)

thanks

[shibui]

To collect plants in Victoria you need permission from the LAND MANAGER - this means Owner of private land; DSE/ Parks Vic for forest and parks; Vicroads for main roads and Local Council for other roads. A DSE permit is actually required to take ANY NATIVE PLANT, even from private land but the reality is they only get involved if it is a rare or endangered species or a significant specimen. In some Local Council areas a permit is needed to cut, lop or remove any native plant (and even some exotics), even on privately owned land.

Road managers are very reluctant to issue permits for fear of liability if the permit holder is injured or causes damage to something/ someone else.

I suspect the situation is very similar in other states and territories.

There are a number of problems with collecting plants from wild populations:
Weed invasion - seeds are introduced on tools and clothing; weeds thrive in disturbed ground where the tree was removed.
Collateral damage to non target nearby plants, some of which may be rare or endangered - many herbs and orchids are difficult to spot or may be dormant at times. unless you know the area well you will not know what unintentional damage you are causing.
Introduction of pathogens on tyres, boots and tools. - phytopthera and others.

If you intend to collect wild plants please develop the skills and experience needed before you try it, and be very aware of the possible collateral damage you might be inflicting.

It is not worth the trouble of collecting wild seedlings. Nursery grown ones cost very little and adapt better.

[Mitchell]

"I suspect the situation is very similar in other states and territories."
That would be correct Shibui.
It's a no no all over the place.

You may have some luck canvassing neighborhoods, requesting to remove ugly looking trees for free. You'd be surprised what you may be offered. Many here have had some good finds in urban areas.

Good hunting.

[Craig]

It's only illegal if you get caught

[Graeme]

And remember to carry a Clipboard, wear a Hires vest and a hard hat. No one will ever bother you.

Oops, I forgot - and dont dig to fast!!!!

[MattA]

It's only illegal if you get caught

Never been caught