Positive feedback on the draft State Fishery Management Plan

The feedback received from anglers and stakeholders regarding the draft Tasmanian Inland Recreational Fishery Management Plan, which sets the direction for the fishery in inland waters for the next ten years, has been extremely positive so far.

The Service presented the draft Plan to the Inland Fisheries Advisory Council, which has representatives from a range of government and industry stakeholder groups, and the angling community in all regions of the State. The Council gave the plan its full support and endorsement.

Last week, the Service held three public forums around the State to discuss the plan. The community’s response indicated good acceptance of the proposed initiatives with those attending the forums raising valuable points for discussion with IFS staff.

These included the need to contend with environmental challenges, such as the reduction in water quality and quantity, as well as to increase access to fisheries whilst maintaining the unique attributes of the Tasmanian fishing experience.

The participants agreed that the Service needed to work with key government agencies to achieve fisheries management goals and encourage greater coordination in the management of recreational freshwater users. They recognised the strategic importance of the plan and applauded the Service for its vision.

The Service is keen for all interested parties to take this opportunity to have input into the future management of the fishery and to put their comments in writing.

The period of public comment on the draft plan runs until 11 February 2008. Copies of the plan are available from Service Tasmania shops and the Service, or can be downloaded from the IFS website at www.ifs.tas.gov.au.