Bold strategy to conserve WA's unique biodiversity for the next 100 years

7/12/06
The Western Australian community is being urged to provide feedback on a 100-year draft strategy to conserve the State's biodiversity.
Releasing 'A 100-year Biodiversity Conservation Strategy for Western Australia: Blueprint to the Bicentenary in 2029', Environment Minister Mark McGowan said today that the draft strategy was bold and challenging.
Mr McGowan said the document set 10 ambitious targets to be achieved by 2029, including the full recovery of 20 plants and animals currently listed on the State's threatened species list.
"Our biodiversity is unique and sets us apart from the rest of the world," he said.
"Since colonisation in 1829, our biodiversity has suffered immensely and it is estimated that 32 species are now extinct as a result.
"This is one of the tragedies of our time and more needs to be done to prevent further decline.
"Over the past six months, I have announced a number of initiatives to tackle feral animals, weeds, phytophthora dieback and survey and research as part of the Carpenter Government's two-year, $15million biodiversity blitz.
"The launch of this strategy today builds on our recent efforts and sets the course for the future."
The Minister said the draft strategy aimed to tackle some of the State's major threats to biodiversity, including those targeted in the biodiversity blitz, as well as salinity, altered fire regimes and climate change.
"Importantly, the strategy will also focus on preventing intact ecosystems and seascapes and landscapes from becoming degraded," he said.
"A central theme is to raise public awareness of, and involvement in, biodiversity issues.
"We need to embark on further research to improve our scientific knowledge so we can make better decisions about biodiversity management.
"Each and every one of us has a part to play in ensuring that future generations also enjoy the same benefits from biodiversity that this generation enjoys.
"I strongly urge all people with an interest in the future well-being of our State and its unique lifestyle to comment on the draft plan before March 2, 2007.
"Once finalised, the strategy will put WA at the forefront of Australian and international biodiversity conservation."
Copies of the draft strategy are available from Department of Environment and Conservation offices or can be downloaded from DEC's website - http://www.naturebase.net
Submissions on the draft strategy should be sent to:
Email: biodiversity@dec.wa.gov.au
or posted to:
Draft biodiversity conservation strategy for WA
Department of Environment and Conservation
Locked Bag 104
Bentley Delivery Centre
BENTLEY WA.
Minister's office - 9222 9111