Council’s vision is to develop "vibrant communities and landscapes for the future" in partnership with state agencies and the community, including conserving and rehabilitating natural areas for recreation and enjoyment by residents and visitors. Council is committed to sustainable management of our natural resources, including environmental protection programs, community education and pollution prevention.

Council and the Environment Tamworth Regional Council is addressing the challenges of sustainability in a number of ways.

Environment, Sustainability and Climate Change The challenge for Tamworth Regional Council and the community is to manage the development of the region in a socially, economically and environmentally sustainable manner for the benefit of the community and future generations. Tamworth Regional Council has helped to develop a vision of sustainability for the Namoi Catchment of "vibrant communities and landscapes for the future" and has a number of plans and strategies in place to actively support this vision. Council has worked with the Namoi Local Government Group to produce the Namoi Urban Sustainability Plan and has an Energy Savings Plan in place. Council's annual State of the Environment Report assesses progress and the effectiveness of these plans against a range of environmental criteria.

Environmental Protection There is a general acknowledgement that human activity, including the pressures of population, technology and business is placing increasing strain on the environment. There is a range of legislation and government (local, state and federal) bodies designed to manage the cumulative impact of existing and future human activities on the environment. However, the community can play an important part in maintaining and enhancing the local environment.

Do's and Don'ts of Backyard Burning Backyard burning is restricted to areas outside the region's residential and village zones. Check the regulations as on the spot fines apply for a range of offences.

What Plants Suit the Tamworth Region The Tamworth region has a wide diversity of native flora. You can help preserve some of this heritage by growing these plants, as well as other Australian natives, in your garden. Council has gathered an array of resources to provide some easy and practical tips on sustainable gardening and the care that needs to be taken with trees and powerlines.

Noxious Weeds Weeds are spreading throughout Australia faster than they can be controlled.  Weeds are estimated to cost our agricultural industry $4 billion annually and can also cause poisoning and other health issues for humans, pets and farm animals. The real cost of weeds to the environment is difficult to calculate. Some weeds are of particular concern and, as a result, have been listed for priority management or in legislation. We can all take action to solve the weed problem and Council has provided information to help you get to know the local weeds in your area.

Report a Pollution Incident To report a pollution incident, please contact Council’s Customer Service Centre on (02) 6767 5555 (there is an after hours reporting service to enable officers to respond), or the NSW Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water Environment Hotline on 131 555.