Zonings for the new Port Stephens - Great Lakes and Batemans Marine Parks are currently being decided. These parks on the NSW mid-north coast and south coast are, like all NSW marine parks, multiple use. This mean commercial and recreational fishing are permitted. Protection is offered in sanctuary zones which allow all non-extractive activities, such as diving, boating and swimming to continue.
The NSW Government is currently asking for public comment on their draft zoning plans for the parks. However, the Government draft zoning plans leave key conservation areas open for fishing. These include key habitats for the critically endangered Grey Nurse Shark.
NPA~Marine, with local conservation groups, have produced its own zoning plans for the parks. These improved plans provide sanctuary zone protection for all key Grey Nurse Shark sites and other important marine habtitats.
Fill out NPA's online submission forms for these new parks today to ensure that real conservation outcomes are acheived. This is a rare and critical opportunity for you to help take a huge step forward in safeguarding NSW marine life. Check out http://www.marine.org.au for more information and to fill out your form
Contributed by Nicky added 2006-08-29