Run-off Bill "A First Step" For Great Barrier Reef's Future
By Matt J. Weiss, October 12, 2009 @ 03:45 PM (EST)
Source: Magnetictimes.com
Under the
Great Barrier Reef Protection Amendment Bill, Burdekin Dry Tropics and
the Far North's Wet Tropics must apply no more than the optimum amount
of fertiliser to their soil, must keep records of their use of
chemicals and fertilisers and must control loss of soil from their
properties.
"The future of the Great Barrier Reef rests upon radically reducing the chemical pollution and sediment run-off that is harming the reef. This global icon for the marine environment and powerhouse of Australia's tourist economy deserves nothing less. It is heartening to see the Bligh Government act swiftly to deliver their election promise to tackle one of the greatest threats to the Reef," said Darren Kindleysides, Director of the Australian Marine Conservation Society.
"This legislation throws the reef a lifeline, but it is just the first step. If run-off is to be halved within four years the Government must ensure money is made available to help farmers meet the requirements of this regulation and become stewards of the Great Barrier Reef catchment," he continued.
Queensland Environment Minister, Ms Kate Jones said she made amendments to the original bill to help support the agricultural industry and transition farmers to legislative requirements after extensive consultation.
Ms Jones said the Reef was not just a natural icon, but an economic asset.
"The future of the Great Barrier Reef rests upon radically reducing the chemical pollution and sediment run-off that is harming the reef. This global icon for the marine environment and powerhouse of Australia's tourist economy deserves nothing less. It is heartening to see the Bligh Government act swiftly to deliver their election promise to tackle one of the greatest threats to the Reef," said Darren Kindleysides, Director of the Australian Marine Conservation Society.
"This legislation throws the reef a lifeline, but it is just the first step. If run-off is to be halved within four years the Government must ensure money is made available to help farmers meet the requirements of this regulation and become stewards of the Great Barrier Reef catchment," he continued.
Queensland Environment Minister, Ms Kate Jones said she made amendments to the original bill to help support the agricultural industry and transition farmers to legislative requirements after extensive consultation.
Ms Jones said the Reef was not just a natural icon, but an economic asset.
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