Former blue gum plantations in the Esperance region could be returned to traditional agriculture within two years.
16,000 hectares of trees have been planted in the Esperance region, over the last 15 years.
But in 2013, tree farm manager Elders deemed the venture un viable, and many of the properties have since been sold.
Tim Carmody bought a 400 hectare tree block near Coomalbidgup in September and started clearing the plantation a couple of weeks ago.
"We've pulled all the timber now, its been back chained and approximately a third of it has been stacked and by that I mean its been pushed up into heaps to burn."
He says while its been hard work, and brings back memories of clearing his original block near Cascade in the 70's, he's disappointed the blue gum venture didn't work out as it would have offered more diversification for Esperance farmers.
"For me, personally, hugely, hugely disappointing because it bought a diversity into the area and with diversity you get the sustainability and different point of business opportunities, so yes, to me, its a crying shame."
None the less, he says purchasing the block and clearing it will enable him to expand his family business in a region where arable land is very tightly held.
"Where our home property is, the land is held, so yes, land is keenly sought after in Esperance so this was an opportunity to pick up some land in the 500 mill rainfall."
"Esperance is full of courage, it wouldn't be here without it. You look at the diversity of people, you look at the diversity of operations and its just nice to be part of that."
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