East Kimberley nature reserves protected

• Final management plan for Ord River and Parry Lagoons nature reserves
• New plan covers more than 129,500ha
• Important habitat for migratory bird species

Environment Minister Bill Marmion today released a final management plan for the Ord River and Parry Lagoons nature reserves in the East Kimberley, which outlines strategies to protect the area's natural values and provide opportunities for visitors to experience these values.

Mr Marmion said the 129,500ha covered by the plan included the Ord River Floodplain Ramsar site, which supported more than 20,000 migratory birds and other species.

"Some of these species are found nowhere else in Western Australia," he said.

"Parry Lagoons Nature Reserve has a range of environments, including freshwater springs, grasslands, woodlands, rugged sandstone and floodplains that are also habitat for many waterbird species.

"The planning area includes an important breeding and feeding ground for at least 50 species of fish and provides essential habitat for the saltwater crocodile."

One of the plan's aims is to reduce the detrimental effects of weeds, introduced animals and inappropriate fire regimes.

The Minister said Adolphus Island, which is a significant mangrove community; and Cape Domett, an internationally important flatback turtle rookery, will be added to the reserves.

      Fact File

• Final management plan:  https://www.dec.wa.gov.au/content/view/104/1931/
• Plan prepared by Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC) on behalf of Conservation Commission of WA
• Input from the Miriuwung Gajerrong and Balangarra people
• Plan proposes joint management by DEC and Yawoorroong Miriuwung Gajerrong Yirrgeb Noong Dawang Aboriginal Corporation and the determination of interest in pursuing joint management with the Balangarra people

Minister's office - 6552 6800