The policy was launched this week and calls for:

* An end to all logging and mining in State Native Forests by 2016

* High conservation State Native Forest to be immediately transferred to the National Park estate

* The balance of State Native Forest to be managed by Department of Environment so that:

(a) Environmental values are highest priority

(b) Wildlife corridors are reforested and protected

(c) Recreational activities consistent with environmental values are promoted; and

(d) Eco-tourism and Aboriginal cultural activities are promoted.

* An $80 million four-year transition package for timber workers and communities impacted by the end of native forestry operations

* Plantation forestry profits invested in increased planting for both soft wood and hard wood timber.

* A $40 million four-year forestry-related tourism and recreation grant scheme to promote access to, and investment in, the remaining State Forest estate.

“This new policy will only affect the logging of State Native Forests. Privately owned native forest plantations and State Plantations are not affected by this plan,” Ms Vernon said.

“Our state plantations are a viable money earner for NSW but the management and logging of our State Native Forests is a burden on taxpayers.

“Local ratepayers also bear a huge burden in maintaining roads and bridges for heavy logging vehicles, with no rates paid by the State Government to offset that expenditure.

“Here is an exciting opportunity for the forests of the Mid North Coast.”