QUARTERLY UPDATE - January 2010
The Aquaculture Development Council (ADC) is focused on furthering the aquaculture industry in Western Australia through funding various projects.
Open Ocean Aquaculture
In the fourth quarter of 2009 the ADC continued to progress the Open Ocean Aquaculture (OOA) Project, which is comprised of a number of sub-projects. During the fourth quarter, the ADC:
- Progressed the video transect work within the proposed Two Rocks Aquaculture Zone to ground truth previously collected swathe mapping data. The consultants completed the field survey and began analysis of the survey information; and
- continued development of an Economic Case Study Project to assist the ADC in demonstrating the economic potential for a large scale offshore aquaculture industry in Western Australia.
Marine Sites Identification
A GIS study was undertaken and a model developed to identify suitable zones for further assessment off the coast of Western Australia. Additional data collection is required for the model and a project report is being prepared.
The Environmental Carrying Capacity Project
The Environmental Carrying Capacity (ECC) Project, which will determine a clear path for licence application requirements and assist in the deregulation of aquaculture by the Environmental Protection Authority, is ongoing. The Department has approached Murdoch University to put together a program to test and compare various benthic habitat mapping techniques. Liaison with the Department of the Environment and Conservation on monitoring criteria for sensitive habitats is continuing. The scope of the ECC Project is under review due to changes in industry status.
For further information on these projects, please contact Michelle Hanlon, Senior Management Officer ADC on 9482 7377 or michelle.hanlon@fish.wa.gov.au