WA's first artificial reef
Trial project welcomed by recreational fishersWestern Australia’s peak recreational fishing body Recfishwest has welcomed the State Government’s unveiling today of the first artificial reef project in the south-west region.
Recfishwest Chief Executive Officer Dr Andrew Rowland said the $2.38 million initiative to establish the State’s first artificial reef trial on the south-west coast would increase habitat for key fish species.
"The Royalties for Regions program funding and $520,000 from recreational licencing revenue has enabled the artificial reefs initiative to come to fruition," Dr Rowland said.
"This is a fantastic tangible benefit for recreational fishers who purchase a fishing licence. With the first artificial reefs being located near Bunbury and Quindalup boat ramps, they will be a great resource for small boats to access.
"Recfishwest undertook a significant consultation process with local fishers to select the best locations."
Dr Rowland said the locations selected for artificial reefs are based on a strict set of environmental parameters such as water currents, depth and bottom type.
"Local fishers will be engaged in monitoring programs to determine the effectiveness of the structures and assess the benefits to the community.
"If these structures meet their potential, they will benefit the environment and local communities; complement Western Australia’s robust and adaptive fisheries’ management approach; and help ensure fish stocks remain sustainable."
Map with artificial reef location here
http://www.fish.wa.gov.au/PublishingImages/Media%20Releases/Photos/Artificial_Reef_Site_Assessment_%20Proposed_Sites%20-.pdf
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