The Tasmanian Government welcomes data released by the Independent Environmental Regulator which shows a clear trend of improving oxygen levels in Macquarie Harbour.
Minister for Parks and Environment, Nick Duigan, said EPA scientists have found the dissolved oxygen levels are now close to the range observed prior to 2010 when the levels began to decline.
“These results show the work underway by the National Recovery Team – which includes the Tasmanian Government, the Australian Government, West Coast Council, the salmon industry, IMAS and Hydro Tasmania- is working,” Minister Duigan said.
This latest review follows data released last month that showed the best consecutive results for Macquarie Harbour since reporting commenced in 2016.
“it’s clear that industry and research investment in remediation of dissolved oxygen levels in the harbour, along with EPA regulation of the industry is effective and working,” Minister Duigan said.
“The Tasmanian Government firmly believes that the Maugean Skate and the salmon industry can continue to co-exist.
“There is now a comprehensive Conservation Action Plan being implemented to ensure the survival of the Maugean skate, and a comprehensive environmental management framework which is ensuring sustainable salmon farming operations in the harbour.”
The Tasmanian Government, through our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future, has already committed more than $2 million to establish a captive breeding program for the Maugean Skate.
