ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING FOCUS OF ABBOT POINT DEVELOPMENTS
The latest in underwater video camera technology will be just one of the initiatives soon to be used to survey seagrass in marine sites off the Port of Abbot Point.
The leading edge technology, towed behind a boat, will be utilised for an extensive baseline environmental monitoring program in the port.
Ports Corporation of Queensland (PCQ) CEO, Brad Fish, said monitoring would be carried out by the Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (DPI&F) research vessel, the Gwendoline May, plus several support vessels.
He said, the extensive baseline environmental monitoring program would be started at the port to support future developments.
“In the first stage, PCQ will contribute funding to allow marine scientists from the DPI&F Marine Ecology Group to map seagrass composition and density in port waters.”
A coastal seagrass survey will also be undertaken and will involve assessment by underwater video cameras as well as diving surveys by marine scientists.
Lead DPI&F scientist for the project, Michael Rasheed, said the comprehensive seagrass assessments would allow for informed decisions to be made regarding the port development to minimise impacts to these important fisheries habitats.
Mr Fish said PCQ was committed to the environmentally responsible management of its ports with minimum adverse impact on the natural and social environment.
PCQ intend to follow up this initial survey with seasonal surveys of seagrass in the port area and water quality monitoring to provide a comprehensive picture of the port environment.
Monitoring is expected to start on 26 February with mapping of deepwater seagrass.
The State Government is currently considering creation of a State Industrial Area at Abbot Point and expansion of the port to accommodate multi-cargo trade within a protected facility is a key requirement.
ends
21 February 2008
For further information:
Bob Brunner
General Manager Environment and Risk
Ports Corporation of Queensland Limited
Ph: (07) 3225 1035
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