Dampier Archipelago/Cape Preston marine zone map released

10/12/04
The State Government today released a map showing the proposed Dampier Archipelago-Cape Preston marine conservation reserves.
Fisheries Minister Kim Chance and Burrup MLA Fred Riebeling said the proposed zoning had been subject to broad community consultation and comment.
The process to create the proposed reserves started in 1999 with the creation of a community-based advisory committee.
The committee provided input into the planning process, including the appropriate category of marine conservation reserve, proposed boundaries and zoning and the preparation of the indicative management plan.
Mr Chance said the committee had recommended two marine conservation reserves - a marine park covering the Dampier Archipelago and a marine management area in the waters to the west, near Cape Preston.
"The committee was also involved in the development of a draft zoning scheme for the reserves and sought the community's views throughout the planning process to refine this zoning scheme," he said.
"Further consultation with recreational fishing groups held throughout this year has resulted in changes to the zones originally proposed by the advisory committee.
"These changes include creating a recreation zone in the waters near Rosemary Island and special purposes zones in the waters around West Enderby Island and Goodwyn Island.
"The latest proposals also include a recommendation to exclude most forms of commercial fishing from the western part of the Dampier Archipelago. The overall effect of the latest zoning proposals means sanctuary zones would now cover seven per cent of the proposed marine park."
Mr Riebeling, who has been closely involved in the community consultation process, welcomed the proposed changes.
"I am confident that we have been able to achieve a sound balance between conserving this wonderful asset for future generations while ensuring the lifestyle of fishers and other users of the area is not unfairly impacted," he said.
Mr Riebeling urged members of the public to comment on the indicative management plan when it was released for a three-month consultation period.
Minister's office: 9213 6700