The research collaboration between the Department of Natural Resources and Environment (NRE Tas), the University of Tasmania and the Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies (IMAS) has been renewed for another 10 years.
The Sustainable Marine Research Collaboration Agreement (SMRCA), which has been in place for 25 years, facilitates vital, independent, world-class research into Tasmania’s marine resources, including aquaculture and fisheries. This research helps make sure that our marine resources are being used for maximum benefit to the Tasmanian environment, economy, and its industries.
Research like the Recreational Fishing Survey and annual fisheries stock assessments are possible thanks to this research collaboration, and they provide vital information to inform fisheries management. The government will be providing at least $26 million towards the partnership over the next 10 years.
“This partnership renewal will help us continue to deliver crucial fisheries and aquaculture research outputs for another 10 years,” said SMRCA Director, IMAS Professor Caleb Gardner.
“It will allow our team of researchers and PhD students to produce independent, world-class science that provides tangible benefits to the community. We have a proud history of creating social, economic and environmental benefits around Tasmania.
“Each year, our researchers determine the status and health of various marine species and associated ecosystems. This is needed to manage rock lobster, abalone and scalefish fisheries, the range-extending longspined sea urchin, marine biotoxins and diseases in shellfish, salmonid farming, shellfish aquaculture, and socio-economic research.
“You can see the impacts of this research on many marine management decisions around Tasmania.”
More information about the SMRCA is available here.