POLICE and Gawler Council are investigating a series of incidents where trees around Gawler have been chopped down illegally, raising safety fears for nearby residents.

The council posted on its Facebook page on Thursday notifying residents about a number of dead trees in Gawler’s river corridors that had been felled without authorisation.

Some trees, particularly River Red Gums, were completely chopped down, while others were left partially sawn, creating concerns they could fall and cause extensive damage to the surrounding area.

The wood from the felled trees was left behind by the offenders.

Council believe up to 18 damaged trees have been found at Clonlea Reserve, behind the Gawler Aquatic Centre, near Weaver Drive, Reid Reserve and Hallam Drive in recent months.

Gawler mayor Karen Redman said the council was aware of similar isolated incidents from two years ago, but that in recent months they had reoccurred and escalated.

“The risks being posed by this activity are extreme to the broader community and also the perpetrators themselves,” she said.

“This is due to the irregular way these trees are being felled, as well as leaving large trees partially cut through, which is just madness.

“The large trees, whilst dead, provided valuable habitat for our local fauna, as well as natural amenity.

“The council is committed to ongoing biodiversity improvements in its river corridors, which includes ongoing revegetation and wood weed removal programs along its extent in a prioritised manner.

“These reckless acts are leaving the broader community exposed and it’s time to bring a stop to this nonsense once and for all.”

Last week, police announced they were searching for information relating to the theft of Permapine posts and Red Gum sleepers, as well as the illegal felling of two Red Gum trees, in Dead Man’s Pass.

The incident and the discoveries made across the rest of the town are believed to be linked.

Anyone who has noticed any suspicious activity in areas where trees have been felled, or has any information regarding the incidents, is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

The council has also called for anyone who has noticed a damaged tree to contact it on 8522 9211.