a wetlands
strategy
for Tasmania
Tasmanian Wetland Strategy
Resource Management
& Conservation Division
Tasmanian Wetland Strategy
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Wetlands are some of Tasmania’s most diverse and productive environments, ranging from coastal and
marine wetlands, such as lagoons and mudflats, to riverine wetlands, marshes, lakes and alpine peatlands and
tarns.
Wetlands are essential in supporting human populations, yet globally, and also here in Tasmania, they face
many threats. Some of the services and benefits provided by wetlands, and which make them important
ecological as well as social and economic assets, include that wetland ecosystems:
x
x
x
x
x
help purify water and store it during times of drought;
help mitigate the impacts of floods, and replenish groundwaters;
offer opportunities for nature-based tourism, sporting and recreational activities;
provide vital refuge, nursery areas and habitat for many species, including economically important fish;
and
are places rich in plant and animal species.
Many wetlands also have significant Aboriginal and historical cultural values.
There are many threats to wetlands in Tasmania, including drainage and other alterations to natural water
patterns, pollution from upstream and local activities damage from recreational activities, and the
introduction and spread of pest species. While a range of legal, policy and other mechanisms are already in
place to deal with these threats, there is a need for a special focus on the management needs of wetlands.
This Wetlands Strategy aims to increase public awareness of the values of wetlands and the threats they face.
It also aims to put in place a decision-making framework that ensures the conservation and good management
of wetlands. Vital components of the Wetlands Strategy are:
x
x
x
integrated land use and catchment management;
community involvement and stewardship in wetland conservation and management; and
greater co-operation and integration of decision making between State agencies, local government, and
individual landholders.
Writing of this strategy was made possible by a grant under the Natural Heritage Trust and this assistance is
gratefully acknowledged.
Tasmanian Wetland Strategy
CONTENTS
1.
INTRODUCTION......................................................................................................................... 2
1.1
1.2.
1.3
1.4
1.5
WHAT IS THE WETLANDS STRATEGY INTENDED TO DO ? ..................................................................................... 4
WHAT ARE “WETLANDS”? ......................................................................................................................................... 5
TASMANIA’S WETLANDS ............................................................................................................................................. 7
THE VALUES OF TASMANIA’S WETLANDS................................................................................................................. 9
MAJOR THREATS TO TASMANIA’S WETLANDS ........................................................................................................ 11
2.
GOAL AND GUIDING PRINCIPLES....................................................................................... 14
3.
STRATEGIES TO ACHIEVE THE GOAL ............................................................................... 20
3.1
HIGHEST PRIORITY FOR WETLANDS OF HIGH CONSERVATION VALUE ................................................................. 21
3.2 STRATEGY THEME 1: PROTECTING SITES OF CONSERVATION AND CULTURAL HERITAGE SIGNIFICANCE ......... 22
3.2.1 Protecting wetlands of high conservation value ............................................................................................................22
3.2.2 Protecting threatened species............................................................................................................................................24
3.2.3 Conserving cultural heritage...............................................................................................................................................25
3.3
STRATEGY THEME 2 : REDUCING THE THREATS TO WETLANDS THROUGH INTEGRATED NATURAL
RESOURCE MANAGEMENT .................................................................................................. 26
3.3.1
Integrated approaches..................................................................................................................................................26
3.3.2
Integrated water resource management .................................................................................................................28
Protecting water quality............................................................................................................................. 28
Maintaining environmental water requirements................................................................................... 30
Managing water levels in impoundments................................................................................................ 31
Creating and managing artificial wetlands .............................................................................................. 32
3.3.3
Managing the impacts of land uses and threats...................................................................................................33
Managing the impacts of agriculture and grazing .................................................................................. 33
Managing the impacts of wood production ........................................................................................... 34
Managing the impacts of mining ............................................................................................................... 34
Managing the impacts of aquaculture ...................................................................................................... 35
Managing the impacts of road construction and use ........................................................................... 36
Controlling exotic species .......................................................................................................................... 36
Fire management ......................................................................................................................................... 38
3.3.4
Using wetland resources sustainably..........................................................................................................................38
Managing tourism and recreation in wetland areas............................................................................... 38
Sustainable harvesting of Sphagnum moss ............................................................................................... 40
3.4
STRATEGY THEME 3 : PROMOTING AND SUPPORTING THE PARTICIPATION OF
STAKEHOLDERS IN WETLAND MANAGEMENT ...................................................................... 41
3.4.1
Involving private landholders and community groups ..........................................................................................41
3.4.2
Rehabilitating degraded wetlands..............................................................................................................................42
3.4.3
Raising community awareness of the values of wetlands ...................................................................................43
3.5
STRATEGY THEME 4 : IMPROVING THE KNOWLEDGE UNDERPINNING WETLAND MANAGEMENT AND
MAKING THIS AVAILABLE TO STAKEHOLDERS AND THE BROADER COMMUNITY ............... 44
3.5.1
Research and monitoring .............................................................................................................................................44
3.5.2
Making information available to the community...................................................................................................45
Tasmanian Wetland Strategy
4.
LEGISLATIVE AND POLICY CONTEXT............................................................................... 48
4.1
4.2
4.3
INTERNATIONAL CONVENTIONS AND AGREEMENTS ............................................................................................. 48
NATIONAL POLICIES, LEGISLATION, STRATEGIES AND PROGRAMMES ................................................................... 51
TASMANIA’S LEGISLATIVE AND POLICY CONTEXT .................................................................................................. 56
MAPS..........................................................................................................................................................
MAP 1 : RAMSAR SITES IN TASMANIA................................................................................................................................. 48
MAP 2 : IMPORTANT WETLANDS IN TASMANIA................................................................................................................. 55
5.
CONCLUSION ........................................................................................................................... 60
APPENDIX 1 ......................................................................................................................................... 62
1.
WETLANDS OF NATIONAL IMPORTANCE, AS LISTED IN A DIRECTORY OF IMPORTANT WETLANDS IN
AUSTRALIA (AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT)......................................................................................................................... 62
APPENDIX 2 ......................................................................................................................................... 69
2.
CRITERIA FOR LISTING WETLANDS OF INTERNATIONAL AND NATIONAL IMPORTANCE .................................... 69
APPENDIX 3 ......................................................................................................................................... 71
3.
WETLANDS POLICY OF THE COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT OF AUSTRALIA (1997) …………………...71
REFERENCES/FURTHER READING ................................................................................................. 73
Tasmanian Wetland Strategy
1. INTRODUCTION
Wetlands are recognised as being among our most important natural assets. This
recognition of their many functions now sees a worldwide move to protect wetlands for
community well being.
Wetlands are key parts of our natural water ‘infrastructure’ – the rivers, streams,
permanent and occasional lakes, groundwater, estuaries and near-shore coastal and
marine environments. Artificial wetlands, which mimic the natural functions of wetlands,
are an increasingly important water management tool.
Wetland ecosystems help purify water and store it during times of drought. They help
mitigate the impacts of floods, and replenish groundwaters, while also offering
opportunities for sporting and recreational activities and providing vital refuge, nursery
areas and habitat for many species. Long recognised as places rich in species, we are
only now beginning to fully appreciate the importance of retaining wetlands as part of
efforts to conserve biological diversity.
Many wetlands have significant Aboriginal and historical cultural values. The knowledge
which local people have of how to manage wetlands sustainably will be an important part
of the turn-around in attitudes and management approach which is needed, and is being
sought through this Strategy.
For its size Tasmania has proportionately more wetlands than any other Australian State.
The variety of landforms in Tasmania has resulted in many different types of wetland
ranging from marine waters, estuaries, brackish lagoons and mudflats on the coast, to the
lakes and extensive peatlands of the highlands. The geographic isolation of Tasmania’s
wetlands has resulted in many of them containing unique species and ecological
communities.
Wetlands are among the most threatened ecosystems in the world. It is estimated that
half the world’s wetland area has been destroyed, and it seems the same applies for
Australia too. In Tasmania, accurate figures are not available on the original extent of
wetlands before Europeans arrived. However, surveys covering about half of the State
show that 51% of the remaining wetlands have been disturbed in some way with 12%
severely affected.
The degradation and destruction of wetland areas has directly impacted upon plant and
animal species. In Tasmania, there are currently 14 species of freshwater plant, over 30
riverbank plant species and 76 freshwater animal species listed under the Threatened
Species Protection Act 1995. Urgent action is required to avert the threats that their
wetland habitats are facing. It is equally important to ensure that other species and
ecological communities do not become threatened through inappropriate land and water
management.
The processes threatening wetlands in Tasmania have changed over time. In recent
years, the draining and clearing of wetlands for agricultural use has slowed; but
alterations to flow patterns and water quality have become major concerns, particularly
as urban development encroaches onto wetlands.
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The threats to Tasmania’s wetlands are such that a co-ordinated State-wide approach is
required to ensure that activities that threaten the ecological values of wetlands are
managed appropriately. Significant aspects of this statewide strategic approach are being
provided by the Conservation of Freshwater Ecosystem Values (CFEV) Project’s
development of a Freshwater Conservation System for Tasmania. The scope of the
Project includes the classification and assessment of the State’s rivers, lakes and
wetlands, saltmarshes, estuaries, groundwater dependent ecosystems and karst systems.
The objective of this Strategy is to initiate a concerted effort to raise public awareness of
the many values of wetlands and the threats they confront and to provide strategic
direction and a concerted response to improve their protection and management. The
Strategy is a whole-of-government approach, and as such represents a co-operative
initiative between all relevant agencies.
How this Strategy was developed
The development of this Strategy was undertaken by a Project Officer employed with
funding obtained from the Australian Government’s Natural Heritage Trust. An
extensive process of consultation, both across government and with interested
community members and stakeholder organisations was carried out and a detailed
Discussion Paper was prepared and released in 2000 for public comment. These
comments, which came from a broad cross-section of interests, were then used to
develop this Strategy.
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1.1 What is the Wetlands Strategy intended to do?
This Wetlands Strategy seeks to provide a framework and direction for those who
take decisions that have an impact on wetlands.
The Strategy does this by establishing a goal, principles, objectives and strategies that
can guide the actions and decisions of Tasmania’s decision-makers, both at a policy
level and in terms of on-ground activities. These include people and bodies in State
Government, local government and regional organisations, as well as landowners and
managers, and community groups with an interest in natural resource management.
The Strategy should also encourage practical co-operation between decision-makers at
all levels of the government and the community in wetland conservation and
management.
The intention is not to introduce new controls. Rather, the Strategy aims to ensure a
much greater focus on wetlands through existing mechanisms and through regional
natural resource management strategies. The first regional strategies are expected to
be accredited in 2004, and the Strategy is intended to be an important input to their
development.
At the moment the need for such an initiative is strong, but the response is not fully
co-ordinated. Many of Tasmania’s wetlands have been degraded by past human
activities, some are threatened by present activities, and, unless steps are taken, they
will continue to be threatened and degraded in the future.
Wetlands are no longer viewed as impediments to development and useless
wastelands. Instead, the improved understanding of how they function and the benefits
they provide, now sees them viewed as important natural assets. It is recognised that
it would be irresponsible to allow the continued destruction and degradation of these
important community resources.
Currently there is no single policy or piece of legislation in Tasmania that can take a
leadership role in seeing wetlands conserved, managed for sustainability, and where
appropriate, reinstated. While the State has a complex framework of legislation and
policies which apply, either directly or indirectly, to wetlands management (see section
9), there is no single whole-of-government strategy which integrates the management
of wetlands in the broader community interest.
The CFEV Project marks an important practical advance in the management of
freshwater wetlands. It is a Government initiative to develop a Freshwater
Conservation System for Tasmania, which will provide the necessary statewide
environmental information needed for the strategic planning, management and
conservation of the State’s freshwater dependent ecosystems, which include wetlands.
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The Freshwater Conservation System will identify where freshwater ecosystem values
exist and, from this, areas of conservation priority will be selected and appropriate
management tools recommended. Once developed, the Freshwater Conservation
System can be used by the State’s resource managers, and will allow future
developments to proceed with confidence that significant freshwater values are not
being degraded.
In introducing the Wetlands Strategy Tasmania joins the Australian Government and all
other Australian State and Territory jurisdictions, which have similar strategies or
policies either in place or close to completion. Together, these will form a national
framework of complementary strategies and policies for the conservation and wise use
of wetlands.
1.2. What are “wetlands”?
There is no universally accepted definition of the term “wetland” largely because they
are found in so many different guises. At the international level, the definition used by
the Convention on Wetlands (Ramsar, Iran, 1971), to which Australia is a signatory
(see Section 4), is as given below.
“Wetlands are areas of marsh, fen, peatland or water, whether natural or artificial,
permanent or temporary, with water that is static or flowing, fresh, brackish or salt,
including areas of marine water the depth of which at low tide does not exceed six metres.
[Further, that they] “.. may incorporate riparian and coastal zones adjacent to the
wetlands, and islands or bodies of marine water deeper than six metres at low tide lying
within the wetlands.”
This definition is of necessity very broad, as it has to be relevant and applicable to all
countries with their special and unique environments. The common practice is for this
definition to be accepted, but then interpreted for the circumstances under which it is
being applied.
In Tasmania’s case, and for the purposes of this Strategy, the areas to which it applies
are as described in Section 1.3. In addition the following require special comment:
1.
The Ramsar definition includes all permanent rivers, streams and even
waterfalls. In Australia, these are not normally classified as “wetlands”.
However, many wetlands, floodplain and estuarine wetlands in particular, cannot
be separated, in an ecological sense, from the waterways of which they are part.
For this reason, the management of these wetlands requires attention at both
the local and catchment scales. For the purposes of Tasmania’s Wetland
Strategy this linkage is acknowledged, and, where it is appropriate, the actions
set down will seek to integrate wetlands into catchment management, not see
them isolated and managed as “islands” in the landscape.
Tasmanian Wetland Strategy
5
2. The Ramsar definition also specifies that “wetlands” can include marine areas
down to depths of six metres at low tide, which in many parts of the World is
the limit of sea grass communities. In Tasmania, seagrass beds are found at
depths down to 23 metres around the Furneaux group. Therefore, for the
purposes of this Strategy, Ramsar’s six metre depth limit has been extended to
take in these deeper seagrass communities.
3. The Ramsar definition, and the accompanying list of wetland types recognised by
the Convention, also considers areas such as rocky coastlines as wetlands.
Again, this is not normal practice in Australia, and so for this Strategy these are
not considered “wetlands”.
4. Also included within the Ramsar definition are so-called “artificial” wetlands. This
is taken to include (among others) areas such as aquaculture ponds, farm dams,
irrigated rice fields, salt evaporation pans, water storages, mining pools and
sewage farms. The recognition of such areas as “wetlands” by the Ramsar
Convention acknowledges that in many situations these areas have significant
value for the conservation of species. In the context of this Strategy, artificial
wetlands (sometimes referred to as purpose built wetlands) are included,
however, priority attention will be directed to natural, or semi-natural wetlands,
and such artificial systems will be considered only where the site has recognised
importance for biodiversity conservation.
Very localised areas of poor drainage, including swampy ground, should generally be
managed in sympathy with this Strategy, but are not considered to meet the definition
of wetland.
Tasmanian Wetland Strategy
6
1.3 Tasmania’s wetlands
Tasmania has a wide range of wetland types, due in large part to its varied landscape
and rainfall ranging from over 3,000 mm in parts of the west coast to less than 500 mm
in parts of the east coast.
Wetlands can be permanent, seasonal or occasional. As expected, permanent wetlands
hold water all year round, although the level may vary with the seasons. Seasonal
wetlands hold water routinely at certain times of year, and occasional wetlands may
dry out for years at a time, but reappear when enough rain has fallen.
Large areas of Tasmania’s landscape were shaped by past glacial periods, which have left
thousands of lakes and small tarns in alpine areas. Tasmania’s alpine and sub-alpine
areas contain wetland types, such as sphagnum bogs, string bogs and staircase ponds,
that are considered rare in Australia.
Tasmania’s west and south-west contain large areas of buttongrass moorland, much of it
having developed on, or contributed to the formation of peat soils. These peat soils
form some of the most extensive blanket bogs (peatlands covering undulating terrain) in
the southern hemisphere, and form a very distinctive vegetation type. Australia’s most
extensive buttongrass moorland areas occur in Tasmania.
Macquarie Island, which is part of Tasmania, has extensive wetlands. These include vast,
waterlogged and heavily vegetated areas on a raised coastal platform, forming a mire
based on deep peat beds.
Tasmania also has numerous coastal lagoons, either cut off from the sea by dune
systems, or permanently or intermittently open to the sea. There are also many
estuaries: areas influenced both by fresh and marine water. The combination of
sheltered conditions and influences from both marine and terrestrial sources means
that coastal wetlands are especially rich in plant and animal life. They can be brackish
or saline.
Saltmarshes are found along most protected coastlines above the high tide mark, and
provide food and habitat for numerous animals, including the nationally endangered
orange-bellied parrot. This species depends on saltmarshes on King Island during its
annual migrations between South Australia-Victoria and Tasmania. Seagrass beds
occur in clear marine and estuarine waters to a depth of 23 metres, as is the case in
the Furneaux Group (see Section 1.2).
Saline wetlands also occur inland, for example in the driest parts of the Midlands near
Tunbridge and Ross, near Cape Portland in the northeast, and in the Furneaux
Group. Most of these have developed as deflation hollows during drier windy times
and often have a lunette or sand ridge on the downwind side. Mostly, these are
seasonally inundated herblands, but saltpans also occur in the Midlands.
Tasmanian Wetland Strategy
7
Freshwater wetlands include flooded forests. Blackwood (Acacia melanoxylon)
dominates the swamp forests in the northwest of Tasmania, while on King Island and
other parts of the coast, swamp forests are dominated by paperbark (Melaleuca
ericifolia).
Both of these forest types are flooded seasonally. Other freshwater wetlands include
permanent lakes, and deep or shallow freshwater marshes. Deep, permanent
freshwater marshes occur in highland areas, on the West Coast and King Island.
Shallow freshwater marshes, which may dry out either seasonally or in particularly dry
years, are concentrated in the wetter parts of the Midlands, in the northeast and on
Flinders and Cape Barren Islands.
About 10% of Tasmania is underlain by cave-forming rocks. These allow the formation
of subterranean karst wetlands, which support a diverse fauna that is often distinct from
that of surface waters. Australia’s most diverse temperate cave fauna associations are
found in large cave systems in Tasmania.
Poljes are large karsts up to several
kilometres across, and those at Mole Creek and Dismal Swamp are considered the best
examples in Australia. Habitats range from flowing underground streams to still lakes.
Below the watertable large, water filled passages are the present focus of much cave
formation and contain troglodytic fauna. Above the watertable, pools remain in long
abandoned high-level cave passages, fed only by seepage and drip waters. These are
extremely fragile ecosystems.
Tasmanian Wetland Strategy
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1.4
The values of Tasmania’s wetlands
Wetlands perform many functions, and through these, provide a wide range of services
and benefits to the community. Many are also places recognised for their social and
cultural significance. The full range of wetland values, attributes and functions has only
recently been understood, but wetlands are now recognised for their economic as
much as their environmental values. Some of these values are described below.
Important habitats for wildlife
Wetlands are important wildlife habitats and support a wide range of specially adapted
plant and animal species. Tasmania’s wetlands are breeding grounds for many fish and
more than 25 species of migratory birds rely on these habitats. During times of drought,
wetlands become even more important as refuge areas for wildlife.
Water purifiers and flood regulators
As water passes through certain types of wetlands it slows down, allowing sediments
and pollutants to settle. The natural processes that occur in many wetlands filter out
impurities and nutrients, helping to prevent algal blooms further downstream.
Wetlands also help to control flooding by absorbing large volumes of water and then
slowly releasing it into the main streams.
Providers of food and water for stock
Wetlands provide a reliable source of drinking water for stock, and valuable grazing
fodder for cattle and sheep, particularly during droughts when other sources are
depleted.
Maintain fish stocks for commercial and recreational anglers
Many wetlands act as breeding and nursery areas for fish species and these are critical
for maintaining the fish stocks needed by commercial and recreational anglers alike.
Shellfish farms are also found in many intertidal areas around Tasmania.
Offer places for nature-based tourism and recreation
Wetlands are major focal points of many recreational activities, such as fishing,
swimming, boating, bird watching and hunting, and many are important for nature-based
tourism. Almost all of Tasmania’s national parks contain one or more wetlands and
these are also places that the community enjoys for their aesthetic and wildlife values.
Tasmanian Wetland Strategy
9
Places of cultural heritage significance
Many wetlands have social or cultural importance for Indigenous and non-indigenous
Australians. Artefacts indicate that the Aboriginal people were once concentrated
around wetlands, especially along the shoreline and the edges of buttongrass swamps.
Places of learning
Wetlands are ideal for teaching how water-based ecosystems work, the roles they play
in food webs, and the principles of caring for land and water resources. Many schools
in Tasmania include wetland studies in their educational programs and increasingly
community members are getting involved in wetland management.
Living laboratories for scientific studies
Wetlands offer ideal places for studies of wildlife, ecology and hydrology. Peatlands are
valuable preservers of archaeological deposits, which can tell us about the past climate
and management practices of the early inhabitants of Tasmania.
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1.5 Major threats to Tasmania’s wetlands
Tasmania’s wetlands are subjected to a range of threats depending on where they are
found. Most threats relate to how natural resources are managed.
Conversion to other uses
Historically, many wetlands have been destroyed for urban expansion, drained for
agriculture, or impacted through a range of activities such as mining, forestry, road
construction etc.
Altered water regimes
Wetlands have also been impacted by the construction of dams, both large and small,
and also by expanding urban areas which alter natural flow patterns and the availability
of water. Coastal wetlands can be seriously degraded by changes to the natural flows of
water through the closing or opening of channels to the sea.
Water pollution
Wetlands are susceptible to pollution, especially sedimentation. This can come from
activities such as agriculture, urban developments, roads, vegetation clearance, forestry,
mining and other industries.
Grazing and agriculture
Well managed grazing can be acceptable in some wetlands. However, allowing
uncontrolled stock access to wetlands is a major cause of degradation. Stock trample
and eat riparian vegetation, break away banks, and often wade and defecate in the
waterbody creating high turbidity and nutrient enrichment.
Vegetation clearance
Clearance of vegetation around the margins and banks of wetlands causes the banks to
be eroded, allows weeds to spread, and gives stock access to the wetlands, causing the
pollution problems noted above. At the catchment scale, vegetation clearing results in
erosion and sediment pollution of the waterways.
Inappropriate recreational and tourist activities
As focal points of recreational activities, wetlands can suffer serious impacts from a wide
range of recreational pursuits if these are not carefully regulated. Among these impacts
are the following: soil erosion and destruction of wetlands by off-road vehicles, lead-shot
pollution from waterfowl hunting, the spread of introduced species, destruction of nests
and breeding sites of certain species, damage to sites of cultural significance, wildlife
entanglements in discarded fishing equipment, general litter and inadequate disposal of
human wastes.
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Fire
Fire can be a major threat to some types of wetland, devastating peatlands and
removing vegetation cover and important wildlife habitat.
Peat mining and Sphagnum moss harvesting
Peat is mined for use in horticulture. Such mining cannot be considered a sustainable
industry as peat takes thousands of years to form. Today, there are alternatives to
using peat. Sphagnum moss is also harvested for use in horticulture. If carried out
following appropriate management prescriptions harvesting can, in certain situations,
be a sustainable operation.
Introduced species
Many introduced species can find their way to wetlands, where they have a variety of
negative impacts, through direct competition with native species, changing water
quality or flows, or simply breaking down the fundamental ecological processes. In
Tasmania’s inland wetlands these species include trout, redfin perch and European
carp, and weeds such as blackberry and gorse. In the estuaries and coastal zone rice
grass is a major problem, as are the Northern Pacific sea star, New Zealand sea star,
the European green crab and Pacific oysters.
Aquaculture
Marine wetlands are favoured areas for intertidal shellfish farms. These can have
negative impacts on seagrass beds, although in Tasmania this industry is carefully
managed to minimise such impacts. Currently, inland freshwater aquaculture ventures
are relatively small scale and land-based with minimal impacts. However, large-scale
aquaculture undertaken in inland lakes would require very careful assessment of
potential impacts through sediment and nutrient deposition.
Lack of integrated decision-making
Decision-making that does not draw on and integrate the combined experience and
knowledge of all relevant agencies at State and local level will result in decisions which
do not adequately protect wetlands. Many local people, community stakeholders, user
groups, industries and other organisations also have information and expertise, which
should be drawn upon in decision making. Proper implementation of the Wetlands
Strategy will require the sharing of information and integration of decision-making.
Tasmanian Wetland Strategy
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2. GOAL AND GUIDING PRINCIPLES
Goal
The goal of this Wetlands Strategy is:
“To see Tasmania’s wetlands recognised and managed
as community assets.”
How the Wetlands Strategy works with the existing and evolving legislative
and policy framework of the State
The Wetlands Strategy is designed to work within, and help integrate across, the
existing Tasmanian legislative and policy context (see section 9) by ensuring that
wetlands are considered in all relevant decision-making processes. While it will not
have any legal force of itself, it is envisaged that components of the Strategy will be
implemented through the legislative and policy framework currently in existence, or
being further developed at present.
Most importantly, the Strategy will inform the development of Regional Natural
Resource Management Strategies under the State’s NRM Framework. The Strategy
will assist the Regional NRM Committees to consider the conservation and
management of wetlands as a priority issue during the preparation and ongoing revision
of their strategies.
The Wetlands Strategy will also help give effect to Outcome 1.1.9 of the State Coastal
Policy:
"Important coastal wetlands will be identified, protected, repaired and managed so that their
full potential for nature conservation and public benefit is realised. Some wetlands will be
managed for multiple use, such as recreation and aquaculture, provided conservation values
are not compromised."
In addition, the Strategy will supplement the Water Quality Management Policy by
setting goals and establishing principles for the protection and management of
wetlands, which should then be adhered to in the procedures required by the Policy.
Many aspects of the Strategy will simply act as a reminder and guidance to agencies,
community and interest groups that the Government is committed to placing
significant emphasis on the protection and good management of wetlands.
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Guiding principles
The following principles support the goal of the Wetlands Strategy and help to guide its
implementation.
Overarching principles
This Strategy is designed to complement and help underpin Tasmania’s efforts to apply
the National Strategy for Ecologically Sustainable Development, and its own related
framework of policies and laws. Consequent principles are:
i.
Every effort should be made to retain the biological diversity of wetlands across
the State, through promoting actions to maintain and restore habitat and
ecosystem functions;
ii.
The precautionary principle: where there are threats of serious or irreversible
damage, lack of full scientific certainty should not be used as a reason for
postponing measures to prevent environmental degradation (Australian Natural
Heritage Charter).
Protecting sites of conservation and cultural heritage significance
iii.
High conservation value wetlands, including all Wetlands of International
Importance (Ramsar sites) and sites considered as having national importance,
should be managed to retain the values for which they were recognised;
iv.
Wetlands of high conservation value which have become degraded should be
rehabilitated, where possible;
v.
Threatened species dependent on wetland habitat should be protected by
ensuring the conservation of adequate habitat, or the taking of other necessary
measures, whether on private or public land;
vi.
Cultural heritage sites in and around wetlands should be protected wherever
possible, and impacts of activities on cultural heritage sites otherwise minimised.
Tasmanian Wetland Strategy
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Reducing the threats to wetlands through integrated natural
resource management
vii.
Decisions concerning the future conservation and management of all wetlands
in the State are to be made with due consideration of their full ecological,
social and economic values, and, where this is not possible, the precautionary
principle is be applied in decision making (see ii above);
viii.
It is important that tasks and decisions which have the potential to impact on
wetlands be co-ordinated across government, and information shared
between State agencies to ensure such actions are well informed and
consistent with this Strategy;
ix.
State agencies should assist local government with wetland-related planning
schemes, and on-ground management tasks and decisions, by providing
information and advice;
x.
Planning, impact assessment and other mechanisms should seek to ensure that
land and water use activities (including grazing and agriculture, wood
production, mining, aquaculture and road construction and use) do not impact
adversely on wetlands, and as the highest priority, on those wetlands of high
conservation value (see Section 3.1);
xi.
In order to maintain, and where possible, restore ecological functions and
wildlife habitat, adequate water should be retained in and flow through
wetlands;
xii.
Impoundments are to be operated so as to minimise impacts on lakes and
wetlands, taking into consideration their full range of functions;
xiii.
Purpose-built artificial wetlands, which have recognised values for waste water
management, and can also yield broader community benefits, may be
encouraged under appropriate circumstances;
xiv.
The establishment of new populations of exotic plants and animals in and
around wetlands should be prevented as far as possible, and current infestations
of pest species eradicated if possible, or managed to minimise their impacts and
prevent their spread;
xv.
Fire should be managed, wherever possible, so that the values of wetlands are
maintained;
xvi.
Recreational and eco-tourism activities in and around wetlands are to be
encouraged to the extent that they are consistent with maintaining the
ecological and cultural heritage values of the wetland;
xvii.
The exploitation of wetland resources, such as fish, peat and Sphagnum moss,
should be regulated to avoid impacts on high conservation value wetlands, and
to negate or minimise impacts at other sites.
Tasmanian Wetland Strategy
16
Promoting and supporting the participation of stakeholders in wetland
management
xviii.
The participation of community groups, landholders and other stakeholders in
the management and rehabilitation of wetlands should be encouraged and
facilitated wherever possible;
xix.
Raising community awareness of the importance of wetlands is a priority in
order to mobilise actions and build an ethos of stewardship.
Improving the knowledge underpinning wetland management and
making this available to stakeholders and the broader community
xx.
Further research is to be undertaken to help improve the way wetlands are
managed;
xxi.
Monitoring of the condition of the wetland resource is important in gauging
progress with implementing this Strategy and to provide feedback for the
management of specific sites;
xxii.
Accurate, up-to-date information, readily accessible to all Tasmanians, is
important for sustainable wetland management.
Tasmanian Wetland Strategy
17
3. STRATEGIES TO ACHIEVE THE GOAL
The preceding section set out the goal, and principles, which will guide implementation
of this Strategy. Below are the strategies that support the achievement of this goal.
The strategies are organised under the five themes used to group the guiding principles
in the foregoing section; however, these principles have not been repeated here for
reasons of brevity.
For the implementation of this Strategy, in the first instance the highest priority should
be those wetlands with “high conservation value”. This should not be interpreted to
mean that other wetland sites are to be neglected, rather that the initial investments of
resources should be largely directed to these sites of recognised importance.
An important vehicle for implementing the Wetlands Strategy is the regionally based
Natural Resource Management (NRM) process. Regional strategies developed under
this process should recognise the Wetlands Strategy and include measures to
undertake its implementation.
It is hoped that this Strategy will help to catalyse investments in wetland management
from a range of government instrumentalities, regional NRM committees, catchment
and community groups, private landholders and the business sector.
To assist those seeking to consider the strategies presented below in a systematic way,
the top-level structure of the section is as shown below:
3.1 Highest priority for wetlands of high conservation value
3.2
Theme 1 - Protecting sites of conservation and cultural heritage significance
3.3
Theme 2 - Reducing the threats to wetlands through integrated natural resource
management
3.4
Theme 3 - Promoting and supporting the participation of stakeholders in wetland
management
3.5
Theme 4 - Improving the knowledge underpinning wetland management and
making this available to stakeholders and the broader community
Tasmanian Wetland Strategy
20
3.1 Highest priority for wetlands of high conservation
value
Wetlands of high conservation value are those which have been designated as Wetlands
of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention (see section 4.1), or included
in A Directory of Important Wetlands in Australia. The CFEV Project will be identifying
wetlands of high conservation priority as part of its Freshwater Conservation System for
Tasmania. These sites will be selected with consideration of their biophysical
classification, a comprehensive condition assessment including expert involvement,
upstream river conditions, and a threat analysis. It is expected that Ramsar wetlands, and
most of those listed in the Directory, will be assessed in the CFEV’s statewide audit as
being of a high conservation priority.
The latest edition of the Directory lists 89 nationally important sites in Tasmania. This is
now a database into which new sites can be added at any time, under a specified process,
by the relevant State or Territory Government. As such there is scope for further sites
to be recognised within the Directory as inventory data is assembled and analysed. The
details of these sites are given in Appendix 1.
Tasmanian Wetland Strategy
21
3.2 Strategy theme 1
Protecting sites of conservation and cultural
heritage significance
Guiding principles – see Section 2
3.2.1 Protecting wetlands of high conservation value
Context:
The majority of Tasmania’s 89 wetlands listed in A Directory of Important Wetlands in
Australia (see sections 3.1 and 4.1) are not protected within secure reserves. Secure
reserves are those protected under the Nature Conservation Act 2002 (the NCA), or
the Forestry Act 1920. Only four of Tasmania’s 10 Wetlands of International
Importance (Ramsar sites) are wholly protected and one is partly protected, within a
secure reserve.
Wetlands on private land may also be protected under the NCA, with the consent of
the owner. Wetlands of high conservation value may be declared as private reserves.
These can only be created when a landowner enters into a conservation covenant,
which is registered on the land title and becomes binding on future landowners.
Currently five of Tasmania’s wetlands listed in A Directory of Important Wetlands in
Australia are contained within private reserves. A management plan has been prepared
for one, Cape Portland Wildlife Sanctuary. Another 20 wetlands in the Directory occur
on private land. Conservation covenants and other management agreements may also
be entered into without the land becoming reserved. Financial incentives are available
for landowners to assist with expenses such as fencing (see also section 3.4.1).
Currently, four wetland landholders have entered into conservation covenants, and an
active covenanting program is administered by the Department of Primary Industries,
Water and Environment (DPIWE). Donation of land, or purchase by the Department
with the agreement of the owner, are also options for private land becoming part of the
reserve system. The CFEV Project is currently funding the Protected Areas on Private
Land (PAPL) Program to negotiate conservation agreements with private landowners on
areas of, or adjoining, Ramsar or nationally listed wetlands. Funding for this also includes
the option of incentive payments.
Preparation of management plans - in consultation with the local community, user
groups and other interested members of the public - is important to ensure that
reserves are managed to protect the natural and cultural values for which they were
created (see section 3.4).
The management plans being prepared by the DPIWE for Tasmania’s Ramsar sites aim
to ensure that all uses of these important wetlands are consistent with their special
ecological and other values.
Tasmanian Wetland Strategy
22
Strategies
1.
Review any relevant recent inventory data to establish if further wetland sites
warrant inclusion in A Directory of Important Wetlands in Australia, and should
therefore be given priority consideration under this Strategy. This needs to be
done as a collaborative task between relevant government agencies. Where
additional sites are identified which include privately held lands, consultation will
be undertaken with landholders, prior to adding the site to the Directory database;
2.
Identify those areas of the State where further wetland surveys need to be carried
out to complete a State-wide inventory, and undertake these surveys as soon as
resources permit (see section 8.5.1 (Page: 23
3.
Develop, using the Ramsar Convention’s Strategic Framework designed for this
purpose, an action plan for building a coherent and comprehensive network of
Wetlands of International Importance in Tasmania. This will require consultation
with the Australian Government (Department of the Environment and Heritage),
and should also be integrated with efforts to establish a system of conservation
reserves (for both inland and coastal/marine environments) which is comprehensive,
adequate and representative in the State. (Again, the Freshwater Conservation
System is based on “CAR” principles, thus complementing terrestrial and marine
reserves.)
4.
Develop management plans consistent with the Australian Ramsar Management
Principles (established as regulations under the Commonwealth’s Environment
Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999) for Tasmania’s existing Ramsar
sites in consultation with the local community, user groups, and other interested
members of the public;
5.
Where appropriate, protect present and future Ramsar listed wetlands on Crown
land (including marine areas) within secure reserves under the current legislation;
6.
Prepare management plans for all high conservation value wetlands on public land
(in addition to those for Ramsar listed sites - see 4 above). These are to be
prepared in consultation with the relevant stakeholders, and include suitable
planning approaches to protect their special values, such as buffer zones, zoning of
uses etc;
7.
Encourage private owners of high conservation value wetlands (through the CFEV
Project, for instance) to enter into management agreements, preferably
conservation covenants, with the Department of Primary Industries, Water and
Environment. Consider also the donation of land, or purchase with the owner’s
agreement (see section 8.4.1);
8.
Give priority consideration for rehabilitation to wetlands of recognised
conservation significance that have become degraded (see section 3.4.2);
Tasmanian Wetland Strategy
23
9.
Integrate recommendations in this Strategy into regional strategies prepared under
the Natural Resource Management Act 2002.
3.2.2 Protecting threatened species
Context:
Under the Threatened Species Protection Act 1995 and the Environment Protection and
Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999, the State and Commonwealth Governments
(respectively) have certain powers to ensure increased protection of listed plant and
animal species. Currently some six hundred species are listed as threatened in
Tasmania. Protective measures are available under the Acts to help prevent or redress
actions harmful to a threatened species. In particular, a comprehensive assessment and
approvals process is a feature of the EPBC Act. As with any private land of
conservation value, the State Government prefers to negotiate management
agreements with private landholders – with enforcement always being a last resort.
The DPIWE is working co-operatively with other public land managers such as Forestry
Tasmania, Hydro Tasmania and the Inland Fisheries Service, and with the private sector,
to ensure that the locations of threatened species are mapped and preventative action is
taken to protect the species (see section 3.5.2; preventative action is also within the
scope of the CFEV Project). The State’s Threatened Species Strategy is being
implemented. This will deal with broader threatened species issues, which also affect
wetlands.
Strategies
10. Address threatening processes which affect wetlands in accordance with the
Threatened Species Strategy and Nature Conservation Strategy;
11. Identify and protect critical habitat for threatened wetland species, by appropriate
means including reservation and management agreements.
Tasmanian Wetland Strategy
24
3.2.3 Conserving cultural heritage
Context:
Sites and areas on Crown land that are important for their cultural heritage may be, or
have been, reserved under the Nature Conservation Act 2002 (NCA). In addition, the
Aboriginal Relics Act 1975 may be used to create Protected Aboriginal Sites. The Crown
Lands Act protects a number of values on Crown land, including cultural heritage.
The Aboriginal Relics Act 1975 also prohibits the destruction of Aboriginal sites and
artefacts. Applications to disturb or destroy Aboriginal sites do not usually result in the
activity being prevented altogether; rather, modifications to the activity are usually
negotiated to protect or otherwise reduce impacts on the site.
The construction and operation of large farm dams also has the potential to conflict
with the Aboriginal Relics Act. Procedures are in place to assess the potential impacts
and arrive at a solution acceptable under the Act.
The Historic Cultural Heritage Act 1995 applies to protect items of historic - that is, nonAboriginal - cultural heritage. Items of historic heritage are being mapped as part of
the LIST (Land Information System Tasmania) project being undertaken by the DPIWE.
This information will be publicly available.
Tasmanian Wetland Strategy
25
3.3 Strategy theme 2
Reducing the threats to wetlands through
integrated natural resource management
Guiding principles – see Section 2
3.3.1
Integrated approaches
Context:
Tasmania has a range of legislation, policies and strategies designed to support various
aspects of natural resource management (see section 4) and this Wetlands Strategy
takes account of these and seeks to see them used in an integrated fashion to promote
the conservation and wise use of wetlands.
It will be of critical importance to the success of this Strategy that all relevant
Government agencies responsible for this range of existing (and emerging) legislation,
policies and strategies collaborate and co-operate in decisions which have the potential
to impact negatively on any wetland in Tasmania.
In the marine and coastal areas, the Living Marine Resources Management Act 1995
contains a range of measures aimed at preventing over-exploitation, and protecting
important habitat areas.
Steps to achieve the nationally agreed goal of reversing the long-term decline in the
extent and quality of native vegetation across the whole landscape will be of significant
benefit to wetlands. The restoration of cleared habitat by community groups and
landholders is a valid approach where there is insufficient intact habitat for the survival
of a species; but the preferred approach where possible is to maintain vegetation. A
number of actions at a government level are in progress or have recently occurred, to
improve the management of native vegetation.
These include:
x A review of the Permanent Forest Estate Policy;
x Amendments to the Forest Practices Act 1995 to protect vulnerable land;
x The Private Forest Reserve Program; and,
x Protection of threatened forest and non-forest vegetation communities.
Local government has responsibility for planning the types of land uses which may
occur in their municipalities and for making decisions on development applications.
Councils therefore have an extremely important role in making decisions that affect
the day-to-day management of natural areas (including wetlands) which are outside
reserves. Following an amendment to the Land Use Planning and Approvals Act 1993, to
be proclaimed once suitable development controls for reserves are approved, councils
will also have a role in approving use and development activities in reserved areas.
The impact of climate change is also an important emerging issue for State and local
government. Potential impacts on wetlands are a significant aspect of this issue.
Tasmanian Wetland Strategy
26
It is important that information on the locations of wetlands, their catchment areas and
conservation values is made available to all relevant State agencies and councils to assist
their decision-making. A geographical information system (GIS), which will provide
information on wetlands and their conservation values, is being developed within the
DPIWE as part of the CFEV Project. The system will also include information on the
locations of wetlands and on historic cultural heritage in and around wetlands (see also
section 3.5.2).
Strategies:
12.
Government agencies involved in making decisions with the potential to impact
on wetlands to give consideration to the full range of ecological, social and
economic values of wetlands;
13.
Protect marine wetland areas and species, where necessary, by using the
measures available under the Living Marine Resources Management Act 1995 such as
the declaration of closed areas and seasons, the protection of specific species,
restrictions on fishing equipment and catches, and the development of habitat
protection plans;
14.
When implementing the Threatened Species Strategy and the Nature
Conservation Strategy, and protecting threatened vegetation communities, the
importance of the continuing “health” and productivity of wetlands is to be
recognised;
15.
Local government to recognise high conservation value wetlands in their planning
schemes, and make decisions consistent with the goal and guiding principles of
this Strategy (see pages 14 to 17);
16.
As information and tools about the potential impacts of climate change, such as
sea level rise and flooding, become available, consider these in land-use planning
instruments, and in water management planning;
17.
Provide information on wetland locations, catchments and values to all State
agencies and councils to assist with planning decisions. This information may
also be made available in a suitable form to regional NRM committees, the
broader community, catchment bodies, Landcare groups, private landholders
etc, to assist their efforts in the conservation and wise use of wetlands (see
section 3.5.2).
Tasmanian Wetland Strategy
27
3.3.2
Integrated water resource management
Protecting water quality
Context:
It is important that the values and requirements of wetlands are given significant
consideration in the preparation of catchment management plans. The Ramsar
Convention guidelines Integrating wetland conservation and wise use into river basin
management are a useful reference source for principles and approaches to catchment
management.
Through their planning schemes, councils can ensure that new developments are sited
in areas where they will have minimal impacts on wetlands and waterways. They also
have significant scope under the Land Use Planning and Approvals Act 1993 (LUPAA) to
place conditions on permits to ensure minimum impacts on wetlands. This includes
requiring that precautions be taken during construction to avoid sedimentation, and
non-polluting methods of waste disposal.
The Environmental Management and Pollution Control Act 1994 (EMPCA) contains broad
ranging powers aimed at protecting the environment, including the quality of water in
waterbodies such as wetlands. The environmental impacts of all activities requiring
approval either under the LUPAA or under the EMPCA itself must be assessed at
either local government level or by the Environmental Management and Pollution
Control Board. The CFEV Project will be a useful resource for such assessments as it
provides a statewide context for the assessment of water development applications.
Under EMPCA, activities may be rejected, approved or approved with conditions
placed on them to minimise their environmental impacts. The enforcement provisions
of the Act, such as the issue of an Environment Protection Notice, may be used to
prevent harmful activities, or to require rehabilitation. The Act also provides for
citizens to take action to prevent environmental harm.
The State Water Quality Management Policy 1997 aims to ensure that water quality is
maintained at levels required to maintain “protected environmental values”. Once a
protected environmental value is set for a water body, water quality objectives will be
set by the Environmental Management and Pollution Control Board, with appropriate
consultation. Diffuse sources of pollution, such as forestry activities, road construction
and agriculture, must comply with “best practice environmental management”, to be
established through codes of practice and guidelines.
Tasmanian Wetland Strategy
28
Strategies:
18.
Relevant government agencies involved in the preparation of catchment
management plans to provide information and assistance to ensure the
requirements of wetlands are properly addressed;
19.
Councils to use their powers under the Land Use Planning and Approvals Act 1993
to ensure that developments, such as industrial plants and subdivisions, avoid or
minimise impacts on wetlands;
20.
Avoid degradation of water quality in high conservation value wetlands, and
minimise adverse changes to water quality in other wetlands, though use of the
relevant provisions of the Environmental Management and Pollution Control Act 1994;
21.
Determine protected environmental values and water quality objectives for
wetlands, with priority given to those of high conservation value, or threatened by
activities in catchments. Following designation of these values, action to be taken
by relevant State agencies and local government to ensure that the water quality
objectives for the wetlands are met.
Tasmanian Wetland Strategy
29
Maintaining environmental water requirements
Context:
An objective of Tasmania’s Water Management Act 1999 is the promotion of sustainable
use of the water resource. Included in this is the provision of water to maintain
ecological processes and genetic diversity for aquatic ecosystems while recognising and
fostering social and economic benefits resulting from sustainable use.
Environmental water requirements have been determined for many of Tasmania’s
rivers. These environmental water requirements will be used in developing
environmental water provisions through water management plans. It is important that
the requirements of wetlands, particularly those of high conservation significance or
currently under stress, are fully considered in the development of Water Management
Plans.
Hydro Tasmania has commenced a program of identifying environmental flows for its
catchments and determining whether the flows can be maintained consistently with its
core business of electricity generation. Hydro Tasmania is working co-operatively with
DPIWE and the public, and is participating in value setting exercises and scientific
studies for the determination of environmental flows and eventually water management
plans.
The DPIWE has developed guidelines to provide guidance for issuing new water
allocations from watercourses during winter under the Water Management Act 1999
(DPIWE 2003). They aim to provide a clear, consistent and equitable approach for the
granting of new winter water allocations while protecting the health of the State’s
rivers and estuaries and the rights of existing users. This will also ensure the cumulative
impacts on wetlands from numbers of small dams in the same catchment are taken into
account when assessing dam permit or water licence applications. Currently no further
allocations for taking water during summer are being made for the majority of streams
in the State as these streams are considered fully allocated.
If farm dam proposals are assessed as having potentially significant impacts on wetlands
of high conservation value, they will be referred to the Director of Environmental
Management under section 152(1) of the Water Management Act 1999 to determine
whether the application should be referred to the Environmental Management and
Pollution Control Board under section 27 of EMPCA.
Tasmanian Wetland Strategy
30
Strategies:
22.
Determine and make publicly available environmental water requirements for
appropriate Tasmanian wetlands of high conservation value (see section 3.2.1);
23.
In value setting processes for water management planning, give careful
consideration to the allocation of water to maintain wetlands, particularly those
of high conservation value.
Managing water levels in impoundments
Context:
Many impoundments were formerly natural lakes or rivers, which have been modified
by damming in order to provide water for irrigation or hydro-electricity.
Impoundments in Tasmania are managed either by Hydro Tasmania, or by a number of
water trusts, which allocate water for irrigation.
Hydro Tasmania has been working in co-operation with the DPIWE and Inland
Fisheries Service to determine appropriate changes to its operational rules with
respect to water levels in impoundments. For example, in the World Heritage Area,
Hydro Tasmania has agreed to implement a water management strategy for Lake St
Clair that aims to prevent or minimise shoreline erosion, maximise revegetation and
enhance the aesthetics of the lake shore environment.
Managing lake levels to protect cultural heritage values is also a significant issue. To
date consideration of this issue has not resulted in a strategy, or process to minimise
impacts. Raising and lowering the level of impoundments, with the effect of damaging
artefacts, has the potential to conflict with the Aboriginal Relics Act 1975.
Strategies:
24.
Undertake research to determine the impacts of fluctuating water levels in
impoundments on high conservation value wetlands, or cultural values on lake
shores. If this research indicates unacceptable impacts, request Hydro Tasmania
to modify its operating rules so that those impacts are minimised (see section
3.5.1);
25.
Address the ecological requirements of wetlands that are being used for water
supply through the appropriate processes under the Water Management Act 1999.
Tasmanian Wetland Strategy
31
Creating and managing artificial wetlands
Context:
Wetlands can be created for specific water management purposes, such as treating
sewage and trapping stormwater in order to protect water quality in the receiving
environment. These areas can also be, and often are, managed so that they become
valuable as habitat or recreational areas.
In Tasmania, several councils have created artificial wetlands to provide polishing
treatment (nutrient removal) for sewage treatment plants that discharge into the
Derwent River estuary. These now provide habitat for many birds and recreational
space for visitors and residents.
There may be further potential to establish artificial wetlands as a means of protecting
water quality in natural wetlands, or waterways. Funding may be available under
national funding programs, such as the National Action Plan for Salinity and Water
Quality and the Natural Heritage Trust, to develop such projects. The Hobart City
Council received funding under NHT (Rivercare) to develop two wetland areas at New
Town Bay on the Derwent. The main purpose of these wetlands is to assist with
remediation of contaminated sediments from the Bay, but they should also improve the
area aesthetically.
Many waterbirds are increasingly reliant on farm dams for their survival. Some of the
birds attracted to farm dams help farmers by consuming damaging insects and other
pests, while ducks and swans can help to keep water plants in balance. There are a
number of ways in which a farm dam can be designed, or enhanced to provide habitat
for waterbirds and these are outlined in the DPIWE brochure Farm Dams and
Waterbirds. Advice is also available to assist with minimising the risks of bird strike
causing damage to pumping equipment and power outages.
Strategies:
26.
Encourage councils to investigate opportunities for the creation of artificial
wetlands as a means of treating effluent, trapping and filtering stormwater, and
providing recreational space. State government agencies can assist these efforts
by providing advice and information, including assistance with seeking
Commonwealth funding;
27.
Encourage the management of artificial wetlands, such as farm dams, as habitat for
wildlife by education, extension and financial assistance through appropriate
funding programs.
Tasmanian Wetland Strategy
32
3.3.3
Managing the impacts of land uses and threats
Managing the impacts of agriculture and grazing
Context:
A cooperative approach is needed between landholders and DPIWE staff in order to
properly assess the needs of wetlands for particular grazing intensities and the
maintenance of water levels and quality. This cooperative approach can apply also to
assessment of the economic advantages to be gained by landholders who properly
manage their wetlands.
Research has shown that excluding stock from wetlands by fencing and pumping water
into troughs can increase the weight gain of some stock. The stock are less prone to
disease and footrot, erosion problems are reduced and water supplies kept clean,
producing benefits and savings that can offset the cost of fencing and water supply
equipment.
Strategies:
(See also 3.4, “Promoting and supporting the participation of stakeholders in wetland
management”)
28.
Encourage private landholders to follow the relevant recommendations relating to
wetlands contained in the booklet “Soil Management, A Guide for Tasmanian
Farmers” available from the Tasmanian Farmers and Graziers Association;
29.
Encourage primary producers to develop integrated property plans that seek to
minimise impacts on wetlands and, where appropriate, undertake rehabilitation or
restoration of wetlands for improved sustainability outcomes;
30.
Encourage primary producers to investigate ways of obtaining marketing
advantages from nature conservation measures on their land, such as through
eco-labelling.
Tasmanian Wetland Strategy
33
Managing the impacts of wood production
Context:
All wood production activities are subject to the Forest Practices Act 1985, and the
Forest Practices Code, which is enforceable under the Act. The Code prescribes
certain buffers, or “streamside reserves”, for watercourses and lakes so that they are
not damaged or degraded during logging.
The Code also contains specific swamp provisions, which include prescribing a ten
metre buffer zone around wet swampy ground, and restricting the logging of swamp
forests to dry periods only.
The Code has a number of provisions for the protection of plants and animals with
special conservation values, and threatened species. This includes the designation of
wildlife priority areas, which are to be excluded from logging.
Strategies:
31.
Continue research into the suitability of buffer zones prescribed for application in
forestry operations (see also section 3.5.1);
32.
Continue to manage wetlands of high conservation value within State-managed
forests for their unique values through the use of special management and/or
protection zones under Forestry Tasmania’s Management Decision Classification
system.
Managing the impacts of mining
Context:
All mining developments require a permit issued by the relevant council pursuant to its
planning scheme, and larger projects require approval under the Environmental
Management and Pollution Control Act 1994.
The State Policy on Water Quality Management applies to mining activities, as with any
other activity with the potential to affect water quality.
The Mineral Resources Development Act 1995 (MRD Act) also requires applicants to
address environmental issues to the satisfaction of the Minister for Mines. Proponents
are required to pay a security bond, to be used to rehabilitate any environmental
damage caused.
All mineral exploration approved under the MRD Act must be carried out in
accordance with the Mineral Exploration Code of Practice which outlines practical
means of avoiding, or minimising, environmental impacts during exploration, including
damage and pollution of streams and swampy areas.
Tasmanian Wetland Strategy
34
To date, little rehabilitation of peat mines has been carried out. Proven alternatives to
peat as a potting medium, such as coconut fibre, are available and will be promoted.
All Australian botanical gardens now use alternatives to peat.
Strategies:
33.
Avoid adverse impacts of mining, or mining-related activities, on high conservation
value wetlands, and minimise impacts on other wetlands, through application of
the relevant provisions of the Environmental Management and Pollution Control Act
1994, the State Policy on Water Quality Management 1997, and the Land Use
Planning and Approvals Act 1993;
34.
Ensure that impacts from peat mining are minimised, and that sites are
rehabilitated to their original vegetation, through conditions in mining leases;
35.
Encourage the use of alternatives to peat by the horticulture industry.
Managing the impacts of aquaculture
Context:
Under the Marine Farming Planning Act 1995, wetland areas can be protected from any
impacts of marine farming, by ensuring that these are not zoned in sensitive areas and
providing for buffer zones to prevent adverse impacts from permitted farms.
Any future proposals for inland aquaculture in lakes, for example for hatcheries, will be
the subject of thorough research and planning before any approvals are given.
Strategies:
36.
Use the planning processes required by the Marine Farming Planning Act 1995 to
protect high conservation value marine wetlands from potential adverse impacts
of marine farming;
37.
Use the results of monitoring and research programs to ensure that the potential
adverse impacts of marine farms on wetland areas are avoided, or minimised.
Tasmanian Wetland Strategy
35
Managing the impacts of road construction and use
Context:
The construction of municipal, Department of Infrastructure, Energy and Resources
(DIER) and private property roads and tracks is dealt with in the processes required by
the Environmental Management and Pollution Control Act 1994 and the Land Use Planning
and Approvals Act 1993.
The DIER is working towards establishing an accredited Environmental Management
System, including the development of a Geographic Information System (GIS).
Currently, project screening enables ready identification of wetland locations, their
values and potential threats to these.
Good practice guidelines are also provided to construction and maintenance
contractors to enable them to avoid, or minimise, impacts on wetlands. Application
and implementation of these guidelines is on a voluntary basis.
The construction of roads and tracks during forestry operations and mineral
exploration is dealt with in the Forest Practices Code and the Mineral Exploration
Code of Practice, respectively.
Strategies:
38.
Exercise best endeavours to avoid any negative impacts on wetlands during all
stages of road and track construction, maintenance and the operation of
associated facilities;
39.
Ensure, through relevant agencies and public landowners, that road construction,
maintenance and/or operational activities affecting wetlands are in accordance
with best wetland management practice;
40.
Ensure that State agencies share information on wetland locations and values, so
that road construction and maintenance can be planned and carried out to avoid
impacts on wetlands.
Controlling exotic species
Context:
The Inland Fisheries Service is responsible for managing the trout fishery in Tasmania,
and currently has the task of attempting to eradicate and prevent the spread of
European carp in highland lakes and waterways. The Service also has the responsibility
for preventing the establishment and spread of other pest species, such as mainland
yabbies.
The preparation of State-wide weed management strategies is being co-ordinated by
the DPIWE.
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Weed infestations are being dealt with at the community group level, and by individual
landowners, with the support and advice of the DPIWE. It is important that these
groups and landowners are well informed about specific weed infestations of wetlands
and how they can be controlled or managed. It is also important that efforts to
control weeds in and around wetlands are co-ordinated with efforts to control weeds
on surrounding land (see also section 3.4.1).
The prevention of further introductions and spread of exotic marine species, for
example through ships’ ballast water and/or on hulls, is being pursued by the Australian
Ballast Water Management Advisory Committee through research, education and
implementation of the National Coastal Ballast Water Management Strategy.
Strategies:
41.
Encourage private landholders and community groups, with support from the
relevant State agencies, to undertake weed control in and around wetlands using
environmentally responsible methods (see also section 3.4.1);
42.
Ensure that the DPIWE controls weed infestations in reserved wetlands,
especially where those infestations impact on the values for which the wetlands
were reserved;
43.
Apply the Inland Fisheries Service (IFS) policy on trout management to prevent
the introduction of exotic species into areas where they do not presently exist,
and particularly into high conservation value wetlands;
44.
Based on research, and in consultation with the Inland Fisheries Service and
anglers, consider the need to cease the stocking of trout in high conservation
value wetlands, especially Ramsar sites;
45.
Forbid the use of live bait in high conservation value wetlands reserved under the
Nature Conservation Act 2002, unless specifically allowed by a management plan. (A
formal consultative mechanism could be established between the Inland Fisheries
Service, anglers and the DPIWE to resolve the issue of live bait use for high
conservation value wetlands without management plans);
46.
Continue efforts to prevent the introduction and spread of marine and
freshwater pest species.
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Fire management
Context:
Land management agencies, such as the Tasmania Fire Service, Forestry Tasmania and
the Parks and Wildlife Service, develop specific strategies for managing fire, depending
on the ecology of the area and whether any species require specific fire regimes.
These strategies are included in management plans for reserved areas, or otherwise in
operational guidelines.
Strategies:
47.
Include appropriate strategies for fire management in all management plans for
public land containing wetlands of high conservation value, and where fire is a
threat;
48.
Use fire for management purposes only where there are prescriptions to prevent
or minimise negative impacts on natural processes, or where it can be shown that
negative impacts on wetland values will be avoided, or minimised.
3.3.4 Using wetland resources sustainably
Managing tourism and recreation in wetland areas
Context:
As well as enhancing visitors’ experiences, education and interpretation are important
ways to increase public awareness of the values of wetlands and appreciation of the
need for their protective management (see also section 3.4).
Management plans for reserved wetlands aim to allow for interesting visitor
experiences, while also protecting the values for which the wetland area was reserved.
Codes of practice have been prepared for some recreational activities, such as horse
riding in the high country, bushwalking and recreational vehicle use. The Crown Lands
Act 1976 and its regulations have been reviewed and amended to facilitate the
restriction of vehicle use in Crown land wetland areas, and there is also a Walking
Track Management Manual that outlines issues to be addressed when constructing
tracks near wetlands.
In addition, tourism and recreation on public land are managed under the relevant
legislation; the National Parks and Reserves Management Act 2002, the Forestry Act 1920
and the Crown Lands Act 1976.
Strategies:
49.
Encourage nature-based tourism on public land where it is in keeping with the
conservation of the wetland values being protected;
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50.
Manage wetlands on public land to ensure that adverse impacts from recreational
activities are prevented or minimised;
51.
Minimise the impacts of recreational activities on wetlands occurring on private
land through management plans for private sanctuaries and nature reserves, and
management agreements with the DPIWE (see also section 3.4.1);
52.
Manage recreational hunting of game in wetlands to ensure that these activities
are consistent with the maintenance of the wetlands’ ecology. Phase out the use
of lead shot within the timeframe established through consultation with users;
53.
Review the Policy for the Use of Recreational Vehicles on State Owned Lands in
Tasmania, and its implementation, to ensure that the impacts of recreational
vehicle use on the natural and cultural heritage values of wetlands on public land
are avoided or minimised. This may involve the extension of the existing permit
system.
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Sustainable harvesting of Sphagnum moss
Context:
Harvesting of Sphagnum in State forests is regulated by Forestry Tasmania under the
Forestry Act 1920.
Guidelines for harvesting Sphagnum sustainably have been developed, but illegal and
one-off harvesting continue to be a concern.
There are no licensing requirements for harvesting on private land. However, this
activity could be regulated via land use planning.
Strategies:
54.
Continue research into the sustainability of Sphagnum harvesting practices;
55.
Review the document “Sphagnum Moss: Sustainable Use and Management” and
update in line with research outcomes;
56.
Promote use of the “Sphagnum Moss: Sustainable Use and Management”
document to private landholders with known Sphagnum resources.
57.
Encourage the use of alternatives to Sphagnum by the horticulture industry.
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3.4
Strategy theme 3
Promoting and supporting the participation of
stakeholders in wetland management
Guiding principles – see Section 2
3.4.1 Involving private landholders and community groups
Context:
In recent years, catchment groups and community programs such as Landcare,
Coastcare, Bushcare, Rivercare and Waterwatch have played an increasingly important
role in conservation on public and private land.
Under the National Action Plan for Salinity and Water Quality and the Natural
Heritage Trust Extension, funding for similar purposes will mostly be delivered through
regionally based NRM strategies. Small projects also have access to the Australian
Government’s Envirofund.
Private landholders and community groups have a major role to play in the
conservation and good management of wetlands.
They provide a significant
mechanism for achieving on-ground work, such as fencing, revegetation and
monitoring.
Through these stakeholders, communities with natural assets are able to assert a role
in caring for their surroundings, and develop a sense of stewardship.
Government agencies have an important role in helping to educate and inform private
landholders and the broader community about their environment, and assisting
stakeholders to get started with on-ground activities.
Strategies:
58.
Encourage private landholders and community groups to initiate and participate in
programs to protect and rehabilitate wetlands. Relevant State agencies can
provide technical advice and assistance to ensure that actions are consistent with
this Strategy and as effective as possible;
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59.
Encourage private landholders and community groups participating in catchment
management to integrate wetland conservation, wise use, and where appropriate
rehabilitation, into catchment-based planning and action. State government
agencies can provide information and advice to assist planning and activities
leading to the protection of wetlands (see 3.3.2 “Integrated water resource
management”);
60.
Review the range of incentive measures available to support and encourage
private landholders to manage their wetlands for sustainability and conservation
and, if necessary, expand them. (see also 3.3.3 “Managing the impacts of
agriculture and grazing” in relation to primary producers obtaining marketing
advantages from nature conservation measures on their land, including ecolabelling);
61.
Encourage private landholders with high conservation value wetlands to enter
into suitable management agreements with the DPIWE (including conservation
covenants which are binding on future landowners), Land for Wildlife or similar
programs.
3.4.2
Rehabilitating degraded wetlands
Context:
A number of wetlands around Tasmania have been or are being rehabilitated by
government agencies, community groups, and landholders or through co-operative
arrangements.
Rehabilitation need not involve major works. Simply reversing degrading processes
such as drainage, nutrient inputs or altered water flows will often result in restoration
of a wetland’s former ecosystem values.
Ongoing work may be required in order to control weeds or until native plants are reestablished.
Strategies:
62.
Encourage landholders and community groups, assisted by relevant agencies, to
rehabilitate wetlands, with special priority afforded to those sites of recognised
high conservation value (see 3.1).
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3.4.3
Raising community awareness of the values of wetlands
Context:
Public support for wetland conservation and wise use is essential. It helps generate
action by government, community groups and landowners.
Raising the level of public awareness of the many values of wetlands is a necessary step
towards gaining that public support.
Public support can only be achieved through readily accessible information (see below)
about the essential role of wetlands in maintaining biodiversity, the benefits that
individuals and communities can derive from wetlands, and practical ways in which we
can work towards their conservation and wise use.
An appreciation of the values and benefits of wetlands is important in redressing
negative attitudes to wetlands.
The Australian Government Department of the Environment and Heritage has prepared
the Wetlands Communication, Education and Public Awareness National Action Plan
2001-2005 on behalf of the Australian Wetlands Information Network. This document
was produced in response to the Ramsar Convention’s adoption of guidelines on this
issue in1999 and contains a summarised review of current activities and future priorities
in this area (see section 4.2 for further details).
Strategies:
63.
Provide high quality educational and interpretative material at Ramsar-listed and
reserved wetlands with visitor access. Where possible, and in keeping with the
natural and cultural values of particular wetlands, provide facilities such as board
walks, viewing hides and small guided tours;
64.
Encourage local councils to provide educational and interpretative material at
wetlands which they manage, with State agencies providing advice;
65.
Investigate the feasibility of establishing additional wetland education centres
similar to that at Tamar Island. Such centres would be available for the purposes
of nature-based tourism as well as education;
66.
Incorporate into curricula at primary and secondary school level material and
activities that aim to educate students about the natural and cultural values of
wetlands and their management;
67.
Incorporate training on subjects such as wetland values, conservation and wise
use into government environmental programs that cover wetland-related issues
and involve community groups and volunteers;
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68.
Develop training courses and materials for community groups and individuals
involved in wetland conservation and rehabilitation, and deliver them in
partnership with non-government organisations which have expertise in the area;
69.
Use community awareness programs to convey information on the ways in which
individuals can protect themselves against potential disease risks such as Ross
River virus.
3.5
Strategy theme 4
Improving the knowledge underpinning
wetland management and making this available
to stakeholders and the broader community
Guiding principles – see Section 2
3.5.1
Research and monitoring
Context:
Ongoing research and monitoring of wetland health will be an essential component of
implementing the Wetlands Strategy.
While much is now known about the management requirements of wetlands, there
remain gaps in this knowledge base and these need to be addressed as a priority.
Strategies:
70. Focus research in the first instance on the following areas:
x
hydrological and ecological research to ensure that environmental water
requirements of wetlands can be determined as accurately as possible;
x
determination of the critical habitat of wetland-dependent threatened species;
x
the potential impacts of climate change and means to minimise the impacts;
Tasmanian Wetland Strategy
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x
the potential impacts of marine farms on the surrounding environment, including
sedimentation, nutrient levels from waste, and the impacts of shellfish on the
availability of nutrients for natural ecosystems;
x
the potential impacts of forestry activities on headwater streams;
x
impacts, prevention and control of introduced marine and freshwater pests;
x
environmental health benchmarks for wetland health and performance indicators
for wetland management, which are consistent with the Tasmanian State of the
Environment reporting process.
(See also the following strategies taken from the preceding themes: 2, 24 and 31)
71.
3.5.2
Seek funding, as a matter of priority, for the inventory of Tasmanian wetlands to
be expanded, updated at regular intervals and maintained. This information would
be used to keep the GIS system as up to date as possible, and to gauge the
importance of wetlands for inclusion in A Directory of Important Wetlands in
Australia, listing under the Ramsar Convention, or reservation.
Making information available to the community
Context:
A great deal of information is already held within various government agencies, which
should be freely shared to enable better decision-making. Co-operative arrangements
should also be made with other appropriate organisations. However, some information,
such as the location of Aboriginal heritage sites and some threatened species is sensitive,
and special arrangements will apply.
Strategies:
72.
Make freely available all relevant information in the public domain, held by
government agencies and corporations, unless sensitive. For example, the CFEV
Project’s Freshwater Conservation System will be made public There may be a
charge to cover transaction costs, although as much information as possible is to
be made available via the Internet.
(See also strategy 17.)
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4. LEGISLATIVE AND POLICY CONTEXT
4.1 International conventions and agreements
Australia, comprising the federation of States and Territories, is a signatory to a number
of international conventions and agreements, which relate either directly or indirectly to
wetland management. In summary these are as follows:
Convention on Wetlands (Ramsar, Iran, 1971)
The Convention on Wetlands Ramsar, Iran, 1971), also known as the Ramsar
Convention, is an international environmental treaty. It provides a framework for
national action and international cooperation for the conservation and wise use of
wetlands and their resources.
The convention seeks to protect all wetlands including those recognised for their
international importance and those of local and regional significance managed by private
landowners and/or local community groups.
The convention seeks to promote the important functions that wetlands perform in the
landscape and recognises that wetlands are a valuable economic resource for
communities that need to be properly managed to maintain livelihoods. Ramsar’s ‘wise
use’ concept allows for sustainable use of wetland resources and examples of wise use
include low impact recreation and tourism, sustainable grazing and harvesting activities.
As a Contracting Party to the Convention, Australia has obligations to:
x Promote the wise or sustainable use of all wetlands within Australia;
x Designate Australian wetlands to the list of Wetlands of International Importance;
and
x Establish appropriate management planning frameworks for listed sites to ensure
that the ecological character of sites is maintained or enhanced.
In Tasmania there are 10 Wetlands of International Importance (Map 1). These are:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Moulting Lagoon, on the east coast
Pitt Water-Orielton Lagoon, in the south east
Jocks Lagoon, on the east coast
East Coast Cape Barren Island Lagoons
Lavinia, on King Island
Logan Lagoon, on Flinders Island
Apsley Marshes, near Moulting Lagoon
Flood Plain Ringarooma River, in the north east
Interlaken, on the central plateau
Little Waterhouse Lake in the north east
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Map 1 : Ramsar Sites in Tasmania
Tasmanian Wetland Strategy
49
Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals
(Bonn Convention)
Signatories to this Convention, as Australia is, are expected to take actions that will
assure the long-term conservation of migratory species, and in particular threatened
migratory species. Australia’s actions under the bilateral migratory bird agreements with
Japan and China and the East Asian-Australasian Shorebird Network (all described
below) are a significant response to our obligations under the Convention on Migratory
Species.
Japan-Australia Migratory Bird Agreement (JAMBA) and the ChinaAustralia Migratory Bird Agreement (CAMBA)
Broadly speaking these two bilateral agreements provide obligations in terms of
Australia, Japan and China taking actions to protect the migratory birds that are known
to migrate between the respective countries. Under both JAMBA and CAMBA Australia
is expected to take actions to protect the listed species, but also their “environments”.
This commitment is largely pursued today through the Asian-Pacific Migratory Waterbird
Conservation Strategy 2001-2005 and under it the East Asian-Australasian Shorebird
Network described below.
Asia-Pacific Migratory Waterbird Conservation Strategy 2001-2005
and the East Asian-Australasian Shorebird Site Network
The East Asian-Australasian Shorebird Network was established in 1996 and now falls
under the Asia-Pacific Migratory Waterbird Conservation Strategy 2001-2005. This
initiative aims to establish a network of the most important wetland sites used by
shorebirds on their annual migrations to and from breeding grounds in northern China
and Siberia. Australia has 11 sites in the network, including Logan Lagoon and Pitt
Water - Orielton Lagoon in Tasmania.
Agenda 21
The 1992 Earth Summit held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil produced the global blueprint for
ecologically sustainable development - Agenda 21, the Rio Declaration. In Australia, the
National Strategy for Ecologically Sustainable Development (see below) was the national
policy response to Agenda 21. Emerging from this conference were the three
international conventions designed to provide primary mechanisms for implementing
Agenda 21; namely the Convention on Biological Diversity, the Convention to Combat
Desertification and the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.
Further details on the Biodiversity and Climate Change Conventions are given below.
Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)
The objective of the Biodiversity Convention is “the conservation of biological diversity, the
sustainable use of its components and the fair and equitable sharing of the benefits arising out of
the use of genetic resources”. For Australia, the National Strategy for the Conservation of
Tasmanian Wetland Strategy
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Australia’s Biological Diversity (see below) provides the primary national framework for
actions under the CBD.
United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change
This Convention seeks to address the “greenhouse effect” resulting from the increasing
concentrations of carbon dioxide and methane in the atmosphere. It is expected that
wetlands will be affected by the changes in hydrology, which climate change will bring,
and those in the coastal zone may be inundated by the rising level of the sea. For
Australia, the major response to the obligations under this Convention is addressed
through the National Greenhouse Strategy adopted by the Australian and State/Territory
Governments in 1998.
4.2 National policies, legislation, strategies and
programs
Tasmania participates in a number of national councils that develop and approve
strategies for improved natural resource management. Of these the most important is
the Natural Resource Management Ministerial Council (NRMMC), which brings together
those Commonwealth, State and Territory Ministers responsible for primary industries,
natural resources, environment and water management. This has replaced the former
Australian and New Zealand Environment and Conservation Council (ANZECC), and
the Agriculture and Resource Management Council of Australia and New Zealand
(ARMCANZ). The Council of Australian Governments (COAG) is also active in relation
to wetland and water resources management.
National Strategy for Ecologically Sustainable Development
This Strategy was endorsed by the Council of Australian Governments in December
1992. It sets out principles and objectives for achieving ecologically sustainable
development (ESD) in Australia with this being defined as “using, conserving and enhancing
the community’s resources so that ecological processes, on which life depends, are maintained,
and the total quality of life, now and in the future, can be increased”.
National Strategy for the Conservation of Australia’s Biological
Diversity
Conservation of biological diversity is a foundation of ecologically sustainable
development and is one of the three core objectives of the national strategy for ESD
(see above). The National strategy for the conservation of Australia’s biological diversity was
endorsed by all States and Territories in 1996.
Water Reform Framework of the Council of Australian Governments
(COAG)
In 1994, the COAG adopted a strategic framework for reforms in the area of water
resource management. Among the major activities set down in the framework, that of
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51
most direct relevance to this Strategy is for State and Territory Governments to protect
and, where necessary, restore the health of water resources and water dependent
ecosystems
National Principles for the Provision of Water for Ecosystems
ARMCANZ and ANZECC Ministerial Councils jointly developed these national
principles in 1996. Their purpose is to guide jurisdictions on how to deal with the
specific issue of providing water for ecosystems in the broader context of water
allocation.
National Water Quality Management Strategy
This Strategy was developed through the ARMCANZ and ANZECC Ministerial Councils
and is now recognised as the basis for water quality policy development in all
jurisdictions. The objective of the strategy is to achieve sustainable use of the nation’s
surface and groundwater resources by protecting and enhancing their quality while
maintaining economic and social development.
National Land and Water Resources Audit
The Audit was established as a component of the Natural Heritage Trust. It aims to
provide a comprehensive nationwide appraisal of Australia’s land, water and vegetation
resources. The first audit, published in 2002-03, comprised national theme studies on
water availability, dryland salinity, vegetation, rangelands, agricultural land use, capacity
for change in water/land management, catchment/estuary health, and terrestrial
biodiversity.
Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation
Act 1999
This legislation came into effect on 16 July 2000 and defines seven matters of ‘national
environmental significance’, namely, World Heritage sites, Wetlands of International
Importance (Ramsar sites), listed threatened species and communities, listed migratory
species, Commonwealth marine areas, “nuclear actions”, and listed national heritage
sites. In relation to any of these, the Act provides that the Commonwealth Environment
Minister can determine if a proposed new action is controlled and whether it should be
subject to an environmental assessment and approval process. The EPBC Act also
provides a framework for the management of Ramsar listed wetlands through the
Australian Ramsar Management Principles. The Principles:
x promote nationally consistent standards of management for all of Australia’s Ramsar
wetlands in a manner consistent with our obligations under the Ramsar Convention;
x guide the preparation of site management plans for Ramsar wetlands; and
x provide a framework for managing important wetlands that are not listed under the
Ramsar Convention.
The Act provides for the implementation of the Australian Ramsar Management
Principles through: bilateral agreements; accredited management plans; Commonwealth
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Ramsar management plans and Ramsar management plans prepared in cooperation with
the States and Territories.
Commonwealth Wetlands Policy
In 1997 the Wetlands Policy of the Commonwealth Government of Australia was adopted as
a whole-of-government policy, primarily to assist the Australian Government with
fulfilling its obligations under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands. The policy applies
only to places under Commonwealth jurisdiction, and to decisions made by the
Australian Government and agencies. It seeks to lead by example, and to urge the
States and Territories to develop complementary policies or strategies to provide a
national framework.
Wetlands Communication, Education and Public Awareness National
Action Plan 2001-2005
This Action Plan was developed by a national task force of experts in the field of wetland
communication, education and public awareness, in response to the Ramsar
Convention’s adoption of guidelines on this issue in 1999. On World Wetlands Day (2
February) 2001 the first part of this Action Plan was released. It contains a summarised
review of current activities and identifies a range of future priorities in this area. Copies
of the Action Plan are available from the Commonwealth Department of the
Environment and Heritage.
National Local Government Biodiversity Strategy
This Strategy was endorsed by the National General Assembly of Local Governments
in November 1998, having been developed under the auspices of the National
Biological Diversity Advisory Council. In the context of the Wetlands Strategy for
Tasmania it includes a range of relevant actions under the themes of awareness,
training and education, resourcing, legislative arrangements, regional partnerships and
planning and information and monitoring.
Natural Heritage Trust (NHT) (2002-2007)
The Australian Government has continued the Natural Heritage Trust, on the basis of a
Framework agreed by the Natural Resource Management Ministerial Council. The three
overarching objectives are biodiversity conservation, sustainable use of natural
resources, and community capacity building. There are four programs under the NHT:
Landcare, Bushcare, Rivercare and Coastcare. Funding for environmental activities
provided at the community level, a regional level and at a National/State level.
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National Action Plan for Salinity and Water Quality
This Action Plan was announced by the Australian Government in late 2000 and
subsequently endorsed by COAG. It is funded by matching cash contributions from the
State and Australian Governments It is a direct response to the escalating problems of
salinity (both dryland and in-stream) and declining water quality in the agricultural
regions and major rivers of Australia. Like the NHT, the program is based on regional
planning and delivery.
National State of the Environment Report
These Reports are generated by the Australian Government every five years with the
most recent in 2002. Most States, including Tasmania, now produce State of the
Environment Reports also.
Nationally important wetlands
In February 2001, the Australian Government, in collaboration with the States and
Territories, published the third edition of a “Directory of Important Wetlands in
Australia”. The Directory identifies important wetlands and provides a substantial
knowledge base of what defines wetlands, their variety and the dependence on them of
many flora and fauna species. A total of 851 sites, identified using criteria developed
cooperatively by the Australian, State and Territory Governments (see appendix 2) were
included in the third edition of the Directory. Further details are available from the
website of the Australian Government Department of the Environment and Heritage at
http://www.deh.gov.au/water/wetlands.
Eighty-nine Tasmanian wetlands, selected from the DPIWE inventory of 800 wetlands
have been included in the Directory. This strategy seeks to ensure that these wetlands
are appropriately managed and conserved.
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Map 2 : Important Wetlands in Tasmania
Tasmanian Wetland Strategy
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4.3 Tasmania’s legislative and policy context
In addition to the above international conventions and agreements, and national policies
and strategies, Tasmania has its own policy and legislative framework designed to deliver
integrated natural resource management and ecologically sustainable development. Of
particular note here is the Resource Management and Planning System (the RMPS). Its
objectives refer to: promoting sustainable development; encouraging public involvement
in resource management and planning; and promoting the sharing of responsibility for
resource management and planning between the different spheres of Government, the
community and industry in the State.
The main components of the RMPS that relate to the management of wetlands are as
follows:
x
Land-use planning through planning schemes and other instruments, which are
approved by the Resource Planning and Development Commission (RPDC) and
implemented by local councils;
x
Marine farm planning through the Marine Farming Planning Act 1995;
x
State Policies to achieve State-wide consistency on a specific issue; and
x
Specific environmental protection and natural resource management legislation, such
as the Environmental Management and Pollution Control Act 1994 (EMPCA), the Living
Marine Resources Management Act 1995 (LMRMA), the Forest Practices Act 1985, the
Mineral Resources Development Act 1995, the Land Use Planning and Approvals Act 1993
(LUPAA), the Nature Conservation Act 2002, and the Natural Resource Management Act
2002.
State legislation which provides powers for the protection of wetlands, or wetlanddependent species, are the Nature Conservation Act 2002, National Parks and Reserves
Management Act 2002, the Threatened Species Protection Act 1995, the Forestry Act 1920,
the Crown Land Act 1976 and the LMRMA.
The Aboriginal Relics Act 1975 provides for the protection of Aboriginal relics, and the
Historic Cultural Heritage Act 1995 provides for the protection of non-Aboriginal cultural
heritage.
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Also relevant in this context is the Water Management Act 1999:
Objectives of the Water Management Act (section 6)
(1) The objectives of this Act are to further the objectives of the Resource
Management Planning System of Tasmania as specified in Schedule
1 and in particular to provide for the use and management of the
freshwater resources of Tasmania having regard to the need to (a)
Promote sustainable use and facilitate economic development of
water resources;
(b)
recognise and foster the significant social and economic benefits
resulting from the sustainable use and development of water
resources for the generation of hydro-electricity and for the supply of
water for human consumption and commercial activities dependent
on water;
(c)
maintain ecological processes and genetic diversity for aquatic
ecosystems;
(d)
provide for the fair, orderly and efficient allocation of water
resources to meet the community’s needs;
(e)
increase the community’s understanding of the aquatic ecosystem
and the need to use and manage water in a sustainable and
cost-efficient manner; and
(f)
encourage community involvement in water resource management.
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State Policies
The “Tasmanian Sustainable Development Policies” aim to ensure that a consistent and
co-ordinated approach is maintained throughout Tasmania with respect to matters of
State significance, including environmental protection and management. Tasmanian
State Policies are statutory policies; that is, they have the force of law. They provide
overarching direction to decision-makers administering relevant legislation and
programs, such as for example, planning schemes. The legislation also gives State
Policy status to National Environmental Protection Measures.
Two State Policies (the State Coastal Policy and the State Policy on Water Quality
Management) are particularly relevant to the conservation of wetlands.
The State Coastal Policy 1996 applies to all State coastal waters of Tasmania, including
coastal and marine wetlands. The policy applies broadly to the regulation of a wide
range of activities that may affect the ecological, social and cultural values of the coastal
zone. Outcome 1.1.9 of the State Coastal Policy is of special note here:
"Important coastal wetlands will be identified, protected, repaired and managed so that their
full potential for nature conservation and public benefit is realised. Some wetlands will be
managed for multiple use, such as recreation and aquaculture, provided conservation values
are not compromised."
The State Water Quality Management Policy 1997 applies to waters throughout
Tasmania, apart from those found purely on private land which do not flow into waters
that are accessible by the public. The policy aims to ensure that water quality is
maintained at levels required to maintain “protected environmental values” and water
quality objectives, which are set through a consultative process. In conjunction with
the Environmental Management and Pollution Control Act 1994, the policy is the major
instrument for protecting water quality in the State.
Tasmania Together
Tasmania Together was launched in September 2001, after more than two years of
community consultation on setting goals and targets for the next 20 years. Its 24
Goals and 212 targets are monitored by the legislatively established Tasmania Together
Progress Board. It includes four Goals relevant to wetland management (Goals 21–24,
especially 23 and 24), though no targets address wetlands specifically.
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Australian Government–State Agreements
The Tasmanian Regional Forest Agreement, signed by the Australian and Tasmanian
Governments in November 1997, is a significant policy document influencing forest
management processes and practices.
The State Government and the Australian Government have also entered into Bilateral
Agreements on the National Action Plan for Salinity and Water Quality (NAP,
February 2002) and the Natural Heritage Trust (NHT2, June 2003). Both Agreements
include references to issues and policies relevant to wetland management.
Tasmanian Natural Resource Management Framework
In February 2002 the Government launched the Tasmanian Natural Resource
Management Framework, developed through a consultative process over the previous
year. The Framework set out a new regionally based structure for natural resource
management in the State, given force by the Natural Resource Management Act 2002.
Under that Act there is now a Natural Resource Management Council and three
regional committees (for the North West, Northern and Southern NRM regions). The
regional committees are responsible for developing NRM strategies for the their
regions. Regionally based natural resource management is a core component of the
arrangements laid out in the Bilateral Agreements for the NAP and the NHT2.
The Tasmanian Reserve Management Code of Practice
The Tasmanian Reserve Management Code of Practice 2003 provides standards and
guidelines for activities in reserves under the Nature Conservation Act 2002 and Forest
Reserves under the Forestry Act 1920. The Code should also be used in managing
wetlands of conservation significance on other public land. Private landowners should be
encouraged to use the Code where significant wetlands lie on private land.
Tasmanian Wetland Strategy
59
5. CONCLUSION
The Wetlands Strategy has been developed by the Tasmanian Government to further
the protection and good management of wetlands. In order for the goal of the
Strategy to be achieved, there will need to be a commitment to action and cooperation across government agencies, industry, the three natural resource
management regions, private landholders, the business sector, interest groups and the
community.
Under the new Natural Resource Management Framework, there is an important
opportunity for the Wetlands Strategy to guide wetland restoration and management.
This can be achieved by the Regional NRM Committees employing the Strategy as a
resource document as they develop and review their regional strategies and investment
plans. This will help to ensure uniform positive outcomes across the State.
Many strategies are suggested in this document, and if followed through the community
should have confidence that the wetlands of this State are being managed for broad
community benefit and species conservation.
With such a large number of strategies, mechanisms must be set in place to ensure coordination between decision-makers and other stakeholders.
There is also an
expectation of accountability in today’s world, and a reporting framework is necessary
to give such feedback.
Accordingly, DPIWE will co-ordinate the implementation of the Wetlands Strategy, in
conjunction with other relevant agencies and community groups. In addition, DPIWE
will be responsible for monitoring the performance of the Wetlands Strategy, and
reporting on the results, on a regular basis.
Tasmanian Wetland Strategy
60
APPENDIX 1
1.
Wetlands of National Importance, as listed in A Directory of
Important Wetlands in Australia (Environment Australia)
(Note: Bioregions used in the Directory are interim only and have recently been changed. Numbers of
wetlands are now no longer sequential.)
Flinders Bioregion
TAS001. Blackmans Lagoon - Location: 40° 54' 37.52" S, 147° 35' 45.92" E; 11 km south-west of
Waterhouse Point; TASMAP No. 8416 (Cape Portland) Grid Ref. 502E, 710N. Area: 28 ha.
TAS002. Jocks Lagoon - Location: 41° 20' 45.33" S, 148° 18' 27.54"E; 5.5 km east southeast of St Helens;
TASMAP No. 8515 (Georges Bay) Grid Ref. 094E, 220N. Area: 10 ha.
TAS003. Little Waterhouse Lake - Location: 40° 52' 27.52" S, 147° 36' 40.29" E; 7 km south-west of
Waterhouse Point; TASMAP No. 8416 (Cape Portland) Grid Ref. 515E, 750N. Area: 10 ha.
TAS004. Surveyors Creek - Location: 41° 6' 27.95" S, 147° 35.88" E; A section of Surveyors Creek, around 8
km north-east of Scottsdale; TASMAP No. 8415 (Forester) Grid Ref. 490E, 491N. Area: 10 ha.
TAS005. The Chimneys (Lower Ringarooma River floodplain) - Location: 40° 53' 30.62" S, 147° 56'
58.81" E; 9 km north-west of Gladstone; TASMAP No. 8416 (Cape Portland) Grid Ref. 800E, 728N. Area: 90 ha.
TAS006. Tregaron Lagoons 1 - Location: 40° 46' 54.42" S, 147° 58' 5.69" E; 4 km south-east of Cape
Portland; TASMAP No. 8416 (Cape Portland) Grid Ref. 817E, 850N. Area: 16 ha.
TAS007. Tregaron Lagoons 2 - Location: 40° 46' 38.10" S, 147° 58' 18.25" E; 4 km south-east of Cape
Portland; TASMAP No. 8416 (Cape Portland) Grid Ref. 820E, 855N. Area: 20 ha.
TAS008. Unnamed Wetland - Location: 40° 51' 13.45" S, 148° 10' 28.34" E; 4 km west of Cape Naturaliste;
TASMAP No. 8516 (Swan Island) Grid Ref. 990E, 768N. Area: 1 ha.
TAS009. Unnamed Wetland - Location: 40° 44' 51.97" S, 147° 56' 30.10" E; Wetland on the peninsula of
Cape Portland; TASMAP No. 8416 (Cape Portland) Grid Ref. 795E, 888N. Area: 7 ha.
TAS010. Unnamed Wetland - Location: 40° 45' 20.60" S, 147° 57' 38.74" E; 1.5 km south-east of Cape
Portland; TASMAP No. 8416 (Cape Portland) Grid Ref. 811E, 879N. Area: 2 ha.
TAS011. Unnamed Wetland - Location: 40° 45' 49.74 S, 147° 57' 43.43" E; 2 km southeast of Cape Portland;
TASMAP No. 8416 (Cape Portland) Grid Ref. 812E, 870N. Area: 10 ha.
TAS012. Unnamed Wetland - Location: 40° 46' 29.19" S, 148° 2’ 55.41" E; 500 m inland of Little Musselroe
Bay, 8.5 km east southeast of Cape Portland; TASMAP No. 8516 (Swan Island) Grid Ref. 885E, 857N. Area: 5 ha.
TAS013. Unnamed Wetland - Location: 40° 50' 32.96" S, 147° 39' 51.40" E; 2 km south of Waterhouse
Point; TASMAP No. 8416 (Cape Portland), Grid Ref. 560E, 785N. Area: 12 ha.
Tasmanian Wetland Strategy
62
TAS014. Unnamed Wetland - Location: 40° 51' 41.44" S, 147° 38' 43.74" E; 4.5 km south southwest of
Waterhouse Point; TASMAP No. 8416 (Cape Portland), Grid Ref. 544E, 764N. Area: 2 ha.
TAS015. Unnamed Wetland - Location: 41° 1' 11.82" S, 147° 9' 38.05" E; 1 km east southeast of Weymouth;
TASMAP No. 8315 (Pipers), Grid Ref. 138E, 590N. Area: 3 ha.
TAS039. Fergusons Lagoon - Location: 39° 51' 43.08" S, 148° 4' 11.17" E; 1 km inland of Foochow Beach, 5.5
km northwest of Foochow Inlet, northern Flinders Island; TASMAP No. 8517 (Flinders Island), Grid Ref. 915E,
870N. Area: 75 ha.
TAS040. Flyover Lagoon 1 - Location: 40° 20' 1.32" S, 148° 21' 39.21" E; 5.5 km southeast of Puncheon
Point, northern Cape Barren Island; TASMAP No. 8517 (Flinders Island), Grid Ref. 156E, 343N. Area: 18 ha.
TAS041. Flyover Lagoon 2 - Location: 40° 20' 36.99" S, 148° 21' 39.92" E; 6.5 km southeast of Puncheon
Point, northern Cape Barren Island; TASMAP No. 8517 (Flinders Island), Grid Ref. 156E, 332N. Area: 24 ha.
TAS042. Hogans Lagoon - Location: 39° 50' 54.82" S, 148° 3' 28.34" E; 1 km inland of Foochow Beach, 7 km
northwest of Foochow Inlet, northern Flinders Island; TASMAP No. 8517 (Flinders Island), Grid Ref. 905E, 885N.
Area: 85 ha.
TAS043. Little Thirsty Lagoon - Location: 40° 24' 26.89" S, 148° 26' 37.29" E; 4.5 km northwest of Cape
Barren, eastern Cape Barren Island; TASMAP No. 8517 (Flinders Island), Grid Ref. 225E, 260N. Area: 30 ha.
TAS044. Logan Lagoon - Location: 40° 10' 30.12" S, 148° 17' 31.00" E; 3+ km northwest of Pot Boil Point,
southern Flinders Island; TASMAP No. 8517 (Flinders Island), Grid Ref. 100E, 520N. Area: 700 ha.
TAS045. Sellars Lagoon - Location: 40° 0' 15.17" S, 148° 15' 33.95" E; Extends south from 4 km southwest of
Sellars Point, 1 km inland of Planter Beach, southeastern Flinders Island; TASMAP No. 8517 (Flinders Island), Grid
Ref. 075E, 710N. Area: 1200 ha.
TAS046. Stans Lagoon - Location: 39° 58' 29.61" S, 148° 13' 17.11" E; 5.5 km west of Sellars Point, eastern
Flinders Island; TASMAP No. 8517 (Flinders Island), Grid Ref. 043E, 743N. Area: 20 ha.
TAS047. Syndicate Lagoon - Location: 40° 12' 38.87" S, 148° 18' 58.05" E; 1.5 km west of Pot Boil Point,
southern Flinders Island; TASMAP No. 8517 (Flinders Island), Grid Ref. 120E, 480N. Area: 1 ha.
TAS048. Thompsons Lagoon - Location: 39° 50' 39.55" S, 148° 1' 42.91" E; 2.5 km inland of Foochow Beach,
10 km west northwest of Foochow Inlet, eastern Flinders Island; TASMAP No. 8517 (Flinders Island), Grid Ref.
880E, 890N. Area: 55 ha.
TAS049. Unnamed wetland - Location: 40° 0' 42.47" S, 148° 13' 27.92" E; 7.5 km southwest of Sellars Point,
1 km southeast of Stony Lagoon, eastern Flinders Island; TASMAP No. 8517 (Flinders Island), Grid Ref. 045E,
702N. Area: 25 ha.
TAS050. Unnamed wetland - Location: 40° 2' 52.93" S, 148° 12' 18.51" E; 7 km west of Planter Beach, on the
eastern extension of Conways Road, 1.5 km west of E Shape Lagoon, Flinders Island; TASMAP No. 8517 (Flinders
Island), Grid Ref. 028E, 662N. Area: 4 ha.
TAS051. Unnamed wetland - Location: 40° 26' 10.80" S, 148° 26' 26.78" E; 3.5 km west of Cape Barren,
eastern Cape Barren Island; TASMAP No. 8517 (Flinders Island), Grid Ref. 222E, 228N. Area: 2 ha.
Tasmanian Wetland Strategy
63
TAS052. Unnamed wetland - Location: 40° 28' 56.36" S, 148° 21' 45.75" E; 2 km northeast of Passage Point,
off Crows Beach, southern Cape Barren Island; TASMAP No. 8517 (Flinders Island), Grid Ref. 155E, 178N. Area:
18 ha.
Tasmanian Central Highlands Bioregion
TAS016. Allwrights Lagoons - Location: 42° 5' 14.26" S, 146° 49' 20.13" E; 7 km northeast of Waddamana, 8
km west of Lagoon of Islands; TASMAP No. 8213 (Shannon), Grid Ref. 853E, 405N. Area: 6 ha.
TAS020. Great Lake - Location: 41° 51' 59.46" S, 146° 45' 32.43" E; Great Lake, central Tasmania; TASMAP
No. 8214 (Meander), Grid Ref. 800E, 650N. Area: 1400 ha.
TAS021. Interlaken Lakeside Reserve - Location: 42° 8' 45.12" S, 147° 9' 26.39" E; 1 km west of Interlaken,
in the northwest corner of Lake Crescent; TASMAP No. 8313 (Lake Sorell), Grid Ref. 130E, 340N. Area: 520 ha.
TAS022. Kemps Marsh - Location: 42° 7' 56.57" S, 147° 8' 20.93" E; 4 km northwest of Interlaken, in the
southwestern section of Lake Sorell; TASMAP No. 8313 (Lake Sorell), Grid Ref. 115E, 355N. Area: 230 ha.
TAS023. Lake Kay - Location: 41° 54' 16.20" S, 146° 31' 16.86" E; 12 km west of Liawenee (Great Lake), 4 km
south of Lake Augusta; TASMAP No. 8214 (Meander), Grid Ref. 603E, 607N. Area: 60 ha.
TAS024. Lake Lea - Location: 41° 31' 3.30" S, 145° 54' 55.45" E; 7 km south southwest of Black Bluff, 18 km
north northwest of Cradle Mountain; TASMAP No. 8014 (Sophia), Grid Ref. 095E, 032N. Area: 100 ha.
TAS025. Maggs Mountain Sphagnum - Location: 41° 45' 7.82" S, 146° 10' 55.53" E; 2 km west of Lake
Rowallan, 3.5 km southwest of the Rowallan Dam; TASMAP No. 8114 (Mersey), Grid Ref. 320E, 774N. Area:
<1 ha.
TAS026. Mt Rufus Sphagnum - Location: 42° 7' 37.61" S, 146° 5' 50.76" E; 11 km west of Derwent Bridge, to
the west of the Mt Rufus summit; TASMAP No. 8113 (Nive), Grid Ref. 254E, 357N. Area: <1 ha.
TAS027. Shadow Lake Sphagnum - Location : 42° 5' 51.17" S, 146° 7' 1.93" E; 10 km west northwest of
Derwent Bridge, 4.5 km west of Lake St Clair; TASMAP No. 8113 (Nive), Grid Ref. 270E, 390N. Area :
Tasmanian South East Bioregion
TAS028. D'Arcy s Lagoon - Location: 43° 14' 35.46" S, 147° 21' 34.80" E; 5.5 km east of Simpsons Point, on
the northern end of the neck, Bruny Island; TASMAP No. 8311 (D'Entrecasteaux), Grid Ref. 292E, 121N. Area:
26 ha.
TAS029. Oyster Cove - Location: 43° 6' 33.38" S, 147° 15' 51.28" E; 4.5 km south of Snug, within Oyster
Cove; TASMAP No. 8311 (D'Entrecasteaux), Grid Ref. 215E, 270N. Area: 25 ha.
TAS031. Apsley Marshes - Location: 41° 58' 7.08" S, 148° 11' 41.27" E; 14 km southwest of Bicheno, adjacent
to the northern end of Moulting Lagoon; TASMAP No. 8514 (Break O'Day), Grid Ref. 990E, 530N. Area: ±700
ha.
Tasmanian Wetland Strategy
64
TAS032. Douglas River - Location: 41° 46' 59.50" S, 148° 16' 10.44" E (River mouth); The Douglas River, 11
km north of Bicheno; TASMAP No. 8514 (Break O'Day), Grid Ref. 055E, 735N. Area: 100 ha.
TAS033. Earlham Lagoon - Location: 42° 38' 47.25" S, 147° 56' 21.53" E; The mouth of the Sandspit River,
11 km south southeast of Orford, southwest of Sandspit Point; TASMAP No. 8412 (Nugent), Grid Ref. 770E,
780N. Area: 220 ha.
TAS034. Freshwater Lagoon - Location: 42° 3' 53.15" S, 148° 17' 57.61" E; 6.5 km north of Coles Bay, 1 km
inland from Friendly Point; TASMAP No 8513 (Freycinet), Grid Ref. 075E, 422N. Area: 14 ha.
TAS035. Hardings Falls Forest Reserve - Location: 41° 51' 25.44" S, 148° 5' 33.81" E; 17 km west of
Bicheno; TASMAP No. 8514 (Break O'Day), Grid Ref. 907E, 655N. Area: 100 ha.
TAS036. Maria Island Marine Reserve - Location: 42° 36' 1.75" S, 148° 2' 53.99" E; Around the western
coastline of northern Maria Island, extending south from Cape Boullanger, to 1 km offshore; TASMAP No. 8512
(Maria), Grid Ref. 860E, 830N. Area: 1500 ha.
TAS037. Moulting Lagoon - Location: 42° 2' 27.31" S, 148° 10' 19.15" E; 12 km northeast of Swansea;
TASMAP No. 8513 (Freycinet), Grid Ref. 970E, 450N. Area: 3930 ha.
TAS038. Unnamed Wetland - Location: 41° 57' 36.99" S, 148° 18' 2.9" E; 9 km south of Bicheno, half a km
inland of Butlers Point; TASMAP No 8514 (Break O'Day), Grid Ref. 078E, 538N. Area: 12 ha.
TAS055. Calverts Lagoon - Location: 43° 1' 6.47" S, 147° 29' 36.05" E; 10 km southwest of Cremorne, South
Arm; TASMAP No. 8311 (D'Entrecasteaux), Grid Ref. 402E, 370N. Area: 46 ha.
TAS057. Elizabeth River Gorge - Location: 41° 54' 10.69" S, 147° 36' 40.53" E; Staircase Gorge on the
Elizabeth River, 9.5 km east northeast of Campbell Town; TASMAP No. 8414 (St Pauls), Grid Ref. 507E, 608N.
Area: 1 ha.
TAS060. Goulds Lagoon - Location: 42° 45' 51.94" S, 147° 14' 26.79" E; Immediately south of the Derwent
River, 2 km southeast of the Bridgewater Bridge, between Granton and Austins Ferry; TASMAP No. 8312
(Derwent), Grid Ref. 197E, 653N. Area: 3 ha.
TAS061. Lake Dulverton - Location: 42° 18' 59.24" S, 147° 22' 56.11" E; Immediately southeast of Oatlands;
TASMAP No. 8313 (Lake Sorell), Grid Ref. 315E, 150N. Area: 200 ha.
TAS062. Lake Tiberias - Location: 42° 25' 28.51" S, 147° 21' 52.83" E; 13 km south of Oatlands; TASMAP
No. 8313 (Lake Sorell), Grid Ref. 300E, 030N. Area: 900 ha.
TAS064. Macquarie River 4 - Location: 42° 10' 33.49" S, 147° 35' 31.51" E; A section of the Macquarie River
19 km south southeast of Ross, immediately north of Tooms Lake Road, by the Trefusis property; TASMAP No.
8413 (Little Swanport), Grid Ref. 489E, 305N. Area: 1 ha.
TAS067. Orielton Lagoon - Location: 42° 46' 56.53" S, 147° 31' 45.72" E; East of Hobart, immediately east of
Midway Point, north of the Sorell Causeway; TASMAP No. 8412 (Nugent), Grid Ref. 433E, 632N. Area: 265 ha.
TAS068. River Derwent - Location: 42° 44' 24.79" S, 147° 10' 59.73" E; A section of the Derwent River,
upstream of the Bridgewater Bridge, east of Dromedary; TASMAP No. 8312 (Derwent), Grid Ref. 150E, 680N.
Area: 550 ha.
Tasmanian Wetland Strategy
65
Tasmanian Northern Slopes Bioregion
TAS018. Dublin Bog - Location: 41° 41' 51.92" S, 146° 15' 34.90" E; 5.5 km northeast of the dam holding Lake
Rowallan; TASMAP No. 8114 (Mersey), Grid Ref. 384E, 835N. Area: 1 ha.
Tasmanian Northern Midlands Bioregion
TAS053. Bells Lagoon - Location: 42° 4' 56.62" S, 147° 21' 2.23" E; 9 km northwest of Tunbridge; TASMAP
No. 8313 (Lake Sorell), Grid Ref. 290E, 410N. Area: 80 ha.
TAS054. Blackman River 1 - Location: 42° 5' 33.56" S, 147° 29' 53.52" E; A section of the Blackman River, 7
km south of Ross; TASMAP No. 8313 (Lake Sorell), Grid Ref. 412E, 398N. Area: 1 ha.
TAS056. Cataract Gorge - Location: 41° 26' 32.87" S, 147° 7' 28.19" E; On the South Esk River just before its
confluence with the North Esk River, Launceston; TASMAP No. 8315 (Pipers), Grid Ref. 104E, 121N. Area: <1
ha.
TAS058. Glen Morey Saltpan - Location: 42° 8' 51.59" S, 147° 28' 54.07" E; 4.5 km east of Tunbridge;
TASMAP No. 8313 (Lake Sorell), Grid Ref. 398E, 337N. Area: 15 ha.
TAS059. Glen Morriston Rivulet 1 - Location: 42° 5' 35.67" S, 147° 33' 57.32" E; 9 km southeast of Ross, 2.5
km east of Tooms Lake Road, by the “Moulton” property; TASMAP No. 8413 (Little Swanport), Grid Ref. 468E,
397N. Area: 1 ha.
TAS063. Macquarie River 2 - Location: 41° 47' 53.22" S, 147° 12' 51.31" E; A section of the Macquarie River
near Leverington, 12 km west southwest of Epping Forest; TASMAP No. 8314 (South Esk), Grid Ref. 178E, 726N.
Area: <1 ha.
TAS065. Mona Vale Saltpan - Location: 42° 7' 49.97" S, 147° 28' 57.96" E; 5 km east northeast of Tunbridge;
TASMAP No. 8313 (Lake Sorell), Grid Ref. 399E, 356N. Area: 26 ha.
TAS066. Near Lagoon - Location: 42° 4' 13.42" S, 147° 26' 6.60" E; 6 km southwest of Ross, 2 km west of the
Midlands Highway; TASMAP No. 8313 (Lake Sorell), Grid Ref. 360E, 423N. Area: 15 ha.
TAS069. South Esk River 1 - Location: 41° 35' 27.91" S, 147° 7' 29.21" E; Immediately northeast of Longford,
on Woolmers Point on the South Esk River near its confluence with the Macquarie River; TASMAP No. 8314
(South Esk), Grid Ref. 104E, 956N. Area: <1 ha.
TAS070. Tin Dish Rivulet 1 - Location: 42° 10' S, 147° 26' E; A section of Tin Dish Rivulet, 4.5 km south of
Tunbridge, immediately south of the Glen Morey Road; TASMAP No. 8313 (Lake Sorell), Grid Ref. 358E, 299N.
Area: <1 ha.
TAS071. Township Lagoon - Location: 42° 8' 58.84" S, 147° 25' 42.42" E; 1 km south of Tunbridge; TASMAP
No. 8313 (Lake Sorell), Grid Ref. 354E, 335N. Area: 10 ha.
TAS072. White Lagoon - Location: 42° 6' S, 147° 26' E; 4.5 km north of Tunbridge, immediately west of the
Midlands Highway; TASMAP No. 8313 (Lake Sorell), Grid Ref. 370E, 390N. Area: 10 ha.
Tasmanian Wetland Strategy
66
King Bioregion
TAS073. Bungaree Lagoon - Location: 39° 45' 44.24" S, 143° 51' 43.66" E; 5 km south of Whistler Point, 1
km inland, western King Island; TASMAP No. 7618 (King Island), Grid Ref. 312E, 939N. Area: 11 ha.
TAS074. Lake Flannigan - Location: 39° 37' 10.93" S, 143° 57' 12.99" E; 4 km south of Cape Wickham,
northern King Island; TASMAP No. 7618 (King Island), Grid Ref. 385E, 100N. Area: 150 ha.
TAS075. Lavinia Nature Reserve (Lake Martha Lavinia, Sea Elephant Wildlife Sanctuary, Nook
Swamps) - Location: Centre of Reserve: 39° 42' 11.67" S, 144° 2' 56.62" E; Lavinia Nature Reserve extends
along the eastern coast of King Island from 1.5 km southeast of Boulder Point (includes Lake Martha Lavinia),
south to the mouth of Sea Elephant River, extending up to 8.5 km inland; TASMAP No. 7618 (King Island), Grid
Ref. of centre: 470E, 010N (Lake Martha Lavinia GR: 480E 070N, Sea Elephant WS GR: 530E 890N, Nook Swamps
GR: 505E 980N). Area: 7034 ha.
TAS076. Pearshape Lagoon 1 Location: 40° 3' 36.57" S, 143° 55' 7.78" E; 5 km east of Cataraqui Point,
southern King Island; TASMAP No. 7618 (King Island), Grid Ref. 372E, 610N. Area: 6 ha.
TAS077. Pearshape Lagoon 2 - Location: 40° 3' 29.65" S, 143° 54' 51.21" E; 4.5 km east of Cataraqui Point,
southern King Island; TASMAP No. 7618 (King Island), Grid Ref. 368E, 612N. Area: 2 ha.
TAS078. Pearshape Lagoon 3 - Location: 40° 3' 42.83" S, 143° 54' 59.05" E; 5 km east of Cataraqui Point,
southern King Island; TASMAP No. 7618 (King Island), Grid Ref. 370E, 608N. Area: 1 ha.
TAS079. Pearshape Lagoon 4 - Location: 40° 3' 39.48" S, 143° 54' 54.99" E; 4.75 km east of Cataraqui Point,
western King Island; TASMAP No. 7618 (King Island), Grid Ref. 369E, 609N. Area: 2 ha.
TAS080. Rocky Cape Marine Area - Location: 40° 51' 19.67" S, 145° 30' 26.91" E; Rocky Cape National
Park, 4+ km west of Boat Harbour; TASMAP No. 8015 (Inglis), Grid Ref. 742E, 762N. Area: 100 ha.
TAS081. Unnamed wetland - Location: 41° 0' 38.37" S, 144° 36' 47.95" E; 6 km northwest of Arthur River
township, southern section of Mawson Bay; TASMAP No. 7815 (Nelson Bay), Grid Ref. 993E, 573N. Area: 3 ha.
TAS085. Lake Chisholm - Location: 41° 8' 3.87" S, 145° 3' 50.15" E; 11 km south of Trowutta, 1.5 km south
of the Arthur River, 3 km west of Rapid River; TASMAP No. 7915 (Arthur River), Grid Ref. 375E, 445N. Area:
5 ha.
TAS089. Boullanger Bay – Robbins Passage – Location: 40 39’ 52.76” S, 144 49’ 40.71”E, 20 km
northwest of Smithton between the NW coast of the Tasmanian mainland and Robbins Island; TASMAP No. 7816
(Welcome), Grid ref. 180E, 960N. Area: 28 000 ha.
Tasmanian West Bioregion
TAS082. Hatfield Sphagnum - Location: 41° 32' 16.26" S, 145° 37' 16.89" E; 22 km north of Tullah, by the
Hatfield River, 3 km west of the Murchison Highway; TASMAP No. 8014 (Sophia), Grid Ref. 850E, 006N.
Bioregion: West and SouthWest. Area: <1 ha.
Tasmanian Wetland Strategy
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TAS083. Lake Ashwood - Location: 42° 6' 22.29" S, 145° 17' 19.00" E; 5.5 km northwest of Strahan, 2 km
inland of Ocean Beach; TASMAP No. 7913 (Cape Sorell), Grid Ref. 585E, 370N. Area: 12 ha.
TAS084. Lake Bantick - Location: 42° 5' 57.39" S, 145° 18' 29.32" E; 6 km north northwest of Strahan, 4 km
inland of Ocean Beach; TASMAP No. 7913 (Cape Sorell), Grid Ref. 601E, 378N. Area: 5 ha.
TAS086. Lake Garcia - Location: 42° 6' 16.90" S, 145° 18' 33.16" E; 5 km north of Strahan, 4 km inland of
Ocean Beach; TASMAP No. 7913 (Cape Sorell), Grid Ref. 602E, 372N. Area: 8 ha.
TAS087. Lake Surprise - Location: 42° 59' 38.09" S, 146° 9' 26.03" E; Within the South West National Park,
at the southeastern end of the Frankland Range, southwest of Mt Solitary; TASMAP No. 8112 (Wedge), Grid Ref.
313E, 395N. Area: 25 ha.
Tasmanian Southern Ranges Bioregion
TAS017. Clarence Lagoon - Location: 42° 5' S, 146° 19' E; 9 km northeast of Derwent Bridge; TASMAP No.
8113 (Nive), Grid Ref. 435E, 405N. Area: 100 ha.
TAS019. Eagle Tarn Sphagnum - Location: 42° 40' 51.94" S, 146° 35' 23.60" E; 10.5 km west of Mount Field
National Park, immediately north of Lake Dobson; TASMAP No. 8212 (Tyenna), Grid Ref. 664E, 745N. Area: 1
ha.
TAS030. South East Cape Lakes - Location: 43° 36' 55.86" S, 146° 50' 20.00" E; 7.5 km south southwest of
Catamaran, 3 km north northeast of South East Cape; TASMAP No. 8210 (South Cape), Grid Ref. 870E, 708N.
Area: 10 ha.
TAS088. Lake Sydney - Location: 43° 17' 23.65" S, 146° 36' 28.83" E; 30 km west of Raminea, 7 km west of
the Picton River, beneath Mt Bobs; TASMAP No. 8211 (Huon), Grid Ref. 682E, 069N. Area: 10 ha.
Tasmanian Wetland Strategy
68
APPENDIX 2:
2. Criteria for listing wetlands of international and national
importance
Criteria for designating Wetlands of International Importance under
the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands
As last amended by the 7th Ramsar Convention Conference of the Contracting Parties (San Jose, Costa Rica,
1999), the criteria for designating wetlands as internationally important are as follows:
Criterion 1:
A wetland should be considered internationally important if it contains a representative,
rare or unique example of a natural or near-natural wetland type found within the
appropriate biogeographic region.
Criterion 2:
A wetland should be considered internationally important if it supports vulnerable,
endangered, or critically endangered species or threatened ecological communities.
Criterion 3:
A wetland should be considered internationally important if it supports populations of plant
and/or animal species important for maintaining the biological diversity of a particular
biogeographic region.
Criterion 4:
A wetland should be considered internationally important if it supports plant and/or animal
species at a critical stage in their life cycles, or provides refuge during adverse conditions.
Criterion 5:
A wetland should be considered internationally important if it regularly supports 20,000 or
more waterbirds.
Criterion 6:
A wetland should be considered internationally important if it regularly supports 1% of the
individuals in a population of one species or subspecies of waterbird.
Criterion 7:
A wetland should be considered internationally important if it supports a significant
proportion of indigenous fish subspecies, species or families, life-history stages, species
interactions and/or populations that are representative of wetland benefits and/or values and
thereby contributes to global biological diversity.
Criterion 8:
A wetland should be considered internationally important if it is an important source of
food for fishes, spawning ground, nursery and/or migration path on which fish stocks, either
within the wetland or elsewhere, depend.
The Ramsar Convention’s Wise Use “toolkit” contains as Handbook 7 “Strategic framework and guidelines
for the future development of the List of Wetlands of International Importance”. This contains specific
guidance and advice for how Parties should apply each of the above criteria.
Tasmanian Wetland Strategy
69
Criteria for the inclusion of sites in A Directory of Important Wetlands in Australia
In 1993, under the auspices of the Australian and New Zealand Environment and Conservation Council
(ANZECC), the Australian Government, in collaboration with the respective State and Territory
Governments published “A Directory of Important Wetlands in Australia”. Applying criteria developed
cooperatively for national application by the Australian, State and Territory Governments (as shown below)
this first edition of the Directory included descriptions of 520 “nationally important” sites. 92 of these are
found in Tasmania. The second edition of the Directory was published in 1996 and in February 2001 the third
edition of the Directory was made available with a total of 851 sites described. For Tasmania there are 89 sites
described. Appendix 1 provides the names of these sites. Further details can be obtained from the web site of
the Department of Environment and Heritage at http://www.deh.gov.au/water/wetlands
Criteria for determining ‘nationally important’ wetlands for inclusion in the Directory
A wetland may be considered nationally important if it meets at least one of the following criteria:
1.
It is a good example of a wetland type occurring within a biogeographic region in Australia.
2.
It is a wetland which plays an important ecological or hydrological role in the natural functioning
of a major wetland system/complex.
3.
It is a wetland which is important as the habitat for animal taxa at a vulnerable stage within their
life cycle, or provides a refuge when adverse conditions such as drought prevail.
4.
The wetland supports 1% or more of the national populations of any native plant or animal taxa.
5.
The wetland supports native plant or animal taxa or communities which are considered
endangered or vulnerable at the national level.
6.
The wetland is of outstanding historical or cultural significance.
Tasmanian Wetland Strategy
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APPENDIX 3
3. Wetlands Policy of the Commonwealth Government of Australia
(1997) - Guiding Principles
In pursuing the goal and objectives of this Policy the Australian Government has adopted the following guiding
principles.
•
Decisions concerning the future management of Australian Government wetland sites should be made
with due consideration of their ecological, economic and social values and in accordance with the
precautionary principle.
•
A co-ordinated and co-operative approach to wetland conservation and management is important and
must involve all spheres of government, the community, local and indigenous groups and the private
sector.
•
Promotion and achievement of positive attitudes and perceptions amongst all Australians towards
wetlands is an important prerequisite for effective wetland conservation and management.
•
Recognising the importance of the knowledge, innovations and practices of Indigenous people in relation
to wetlands and the contribution that these can provide, the Australian Government will promote a
cooperative approach to wetland management and conservation with Indigenous Australians.
•
Private landholders should be empowered to act as responsible long-term custodians of wetlands.
•
The wise use of wetlands, in accordance with the Ramsar Convention’s definition and guidelines, is an
important component in Australia’s achievement of the goal of the National Strategy for Ecologically
Sustainable Development.
•
Wetland functions and values should be conserved within a contest of integrated natural resource and
land-use management regimes which may include multiple and sequential land use principles.
•
While it is recognised that purpose built wetlands can offer opportunities for applying wetland functions
to address specific environmental management issues, they should not be used as substitutes for natural
wetlands without expert supporting advice.
•
The repair of degraded wetlands should be undertaken where ecologically beneficial, feasible and cost
effective.
Tasmanian Wetland Strategy
71
•
Ongoing research into wetland processes, dynamics and management, and the dissemination of these
findings in a readily useable form, is important to the conservation and ecologically sustainable use of
wetlands.
•
The importance of Australia’s wetlands and our international environmental obligations should be
recognised in the management of wetlands.
•
Nothing in this Policy should be used to compromise human health and safety considerations or actions
the Australian Government identifies as of national interest.
Tasmanian Wetland Strategy
72
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