Community input wanted on seagrass protection in North Harbour

The community is encouraged to have its say on improved protection options for seagrasses and Little Penguins in North Sydney Harbour following the release of a joint issues paper today.

NSW Department of Primary Industries (NSW DPI) Manager Fisheries Ecosystems, Sarah Fairfull said the issues paper was developed by NSW DPI, Roads and Maritime Services (RMS) and the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) to investigate options for the greater protection of seagrasses populations in the area.

"The issues paper has been developed following requests from the community in the Manly area that more be done to protect important seagrass habitat in North Harbour," Ms Fairfull said.

"There was particular community concern about high boat usage at Manly Cove West and Quarantine Beach that resulted in anchoring damage and propeller scarring to seagrasses, including the endangered population of strapweed, Posidonia australis.

"The issues paper also addresses concerns for the endangered Little Penguin population of North Harbour, the only breeding colony for the species on the NSW mainland."

Under the Fisheries Management Act 1994 it is an offence to "harm" marine vegetation, including seagrasses, without the authority of the Minister or another relevant public authority.

It is also an offence to "harm" listed threatened species of marine vegetation or to damage their habitat. Significant penalties apply including possible jail terms for severe offences.

Ms Fairfull said as part of the development of the joint issues paper NSW DPI, RMS and NPWS have completed a site assessment and identified anchoring restriction and boating access options, including a preferred option, at both locations.

"These options were taken to separate meetings of the Middle Harbour and Sydney Harbour Boating User Groups late last year for targeted consultation," Ms Fairfull said.

"The Issues Paper on the preferred options is now available for the wider community to provide comments for 30 days.

"Once the consultation is complete, submissions will be reviewed and used to inform final recommendations for improved seagrass protection at Manly Cove West and Quarantine Beach."

The Issues Paper can be downloaded from www.fisheries.nsw.gov.au or you can request a copy by phoning
(02) 6626 1269. Submissions can be lodged with NSW DPI electronically at the same website or via mail or facsimile by
1 June 2012.

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