Tree clearing is a divisive and contentious issue which pits farmers against green groups. Now it's reared its head again, this time during the federal election campaign. It's usually a state government issue, but the federal Labor Party has vowed to introduce tough new national restrictions if elected as part of its new-look climate change policy. The surprise announcement has many farmers worried. keywords: active citizenship ; agriculture; australian geography ; civics and citizenship ; climate change ; environment management ; farming ; felling ; land care management ; logging ; pest control ; politics and government ; rural communities ; sustainability.