The Tasmanian Government notes draft federal conservation advice regarding the Maugean Skate released yesterday.
Minister for Parks and Environment, Nick Duigan, said the government has been very clear about its commitment to protecting the Maugean skate, while also supporting regional Tasmanian jobs.
“This Government firmly believes the Maugean Skate and the salmon industry can co-exist, and that’s why we are investing $2.1 million into the Skate Recovery Fund to ensure the species’ long-term survival,” Minister Duigan said.
“A comprehensive Conservation Action Plan is being implemented and overseen by the ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾ Recovery Team and a comprehensive environmental management framework is in place.”
The Recovery Team comprises a range of stakeholders and expertise, representing Government, research institutions, industry and community.
The conservation actions include a captive breeding program being undertaken at the Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies (IMAS) to help create an insurance population for the species.
“Just this week we have seen the exciting results of this captive breeding program where baby Maugean skates have hatched from eggs laid in captivity right here in Tasmania.
“Through this program IMAS scientists are learning more and more about the species.
“We know the Macquarie Harbour Oxygenation Project is also showing promising early results, and evidence-based science demonstrates the harbour environment is improving.”
Data released in June by the Independent Environmental Regulator shows a clear trend of improving oxygen levels and sediment health, with dissolved oxygen levels continuing to improve in the middle and deeper waters of the harbour.
“The Conservation Advice acknowledges these dissolved oxygen improvements.
“It also shows that threats to the skate are complex and cannot be attributed to a single issue alone with weather events, temperature and climate change as well as water inflows, recreational and commercial fishing all having a bearing on the harbour.”
There is ongoing population monitoring of the Maugean skate in Macquarie Harbour to inform conservation management actions.
Restrictions for gillnetting in Macquarie Harbour were formalised in November 2023 to minimise the risk of interactions between skate and fishers.
Minister Duigan said Tasmania will participate in the consultation on the Federal Government’s conservation advice.
“The well-being of the West Coast community and the skate will remain at the forefront of this Government’s decisions and actions.”
