State Budget 2010-11: Fisheries sound approach to marine protection with funds for new sanctuary
The State Budget has flagged an annual $1.5million from 2011-12 to ensure the protection of the marine environment of Camden Sound, about 300km north east of Broome, reports www.megafishnet.com with reference to Government of Western Australia.
The strong economic foundations of the State Budget guarantees targeted and effective environmental protection initiatives.
Fisheries Minister Norman Moore said the plan for Camden Sound Marine Park was focused on significant research, monitoring and compliance work.
"With the establishment of this new marine park, the State Government has shown how to strike a balance between the environment and development," Mr Moore said.
"The funding announced in today's Budget locks in the establishment, development, management and protection of the park and Western Australia's unique marine environment.
"Department of Fisheries' scientists will carry out baseline research and lead ongoing monitoring, which will help with early warning of bio-security issues and potential marine pest incursions.
"Additional patrols of Camden Sound will provide compliance purposes, an activity expected by the community.
"Fisheries and other State Government agencies will use boats, like the patrol vessel (PV) Walcott (and its replacement, which was the subject of another funding announcement in today's Budget) to manage the park and surrounding areas."
The Minister said research, compliance and monitoring programs were crucial to maintain the environmental and biodiversity of the marine park.
"Camden Sound is a significant calving and nursery area for the humpback whales that migrate there from Antarctica every year," he said.
"The sound also hosts a wealth of other marine life such as coral reefs, mangrove forests, turtles, dugongs and fish.
"The diverse finfish and invertebrate populations are influenced by the big tidal variations in the area which is home to species including pelagic mackerel, barramundi and a number of protected fish species.
"Marine parks protect and conserve natural features and biodiversity, while enabling recreational and commercial activities to occur appropriately.
"These funds will help secure and study this unique part of the Kimberley."
Mr Moore said the increased State Government presence in the area to carry out compliance activities would also help the Federal Government efforts to protect Australia from illegal foreign fishers and illegal immigration.