International experts from fishery, environmental and other agencies are attending the Practical Steps to Implementation of Integrated Marine Management workshop at the on 13-16 April 2015.
Under the spotlight is the Spencer Gulf Ecosystem and Development Initiative (SGEDI), which is adding to South Australia’s growing expertise in integrated marine management systems.
The Initiative aims to help economic growth in the region through clearer planning regulations and improved information resources to assist decision making, as well as to help the environment.
The Spencer Gulf is an area of high biodiversity and provides a nursery for many fish species.
“In Spencer Gulf, we are working hard to balance the interests of the environment, tourism and recreation with mining, energy exploration, port, shipping and coastal industrial and urban development, along with fishing, aquaculture and agriculture,” said South Australian Research and Development Institute (SARDI) Chief Professor Gavin Begg.
“We are now looking to expand the Spencer Gulf and Ecosystem Development Initiative to create a highly advanced model for facilitating sustainable development in the Gulf while protecting its environmental integrity.”
While South Australia has a strong track record in advancing industry and economic development along side sustainable natural resources management, more needs to be done to protect the area.
“The initiative aims to develop a comprehensive and informed decision-making system married closely to the aims of world-class integrated marine management,” he said.
Speakers at the international workshop include Dr Rob Stephenson from the Canadian Fisheries Research Network, Prof Melissa Foley from Stanford University and other overseas experts from State and federal government agencies and universities.
