Management of the Towra Point Aquatic Reserve by NSW Fisheries

In many parts of Australia, aquatic environments are being slowly degraded. The conservation and management of all fish and fish habitats in NSW state waters is the responsibility of NSW Fisheries. Aquatic reserves represent one mechanism of fisheries management. There is a well developed management, research, compliance and structure to support the eight existing aquatic reserves in NSW. The 333 hectare Towra Point Aquatic Reserve was declared as a multiple use reserve in 1987 and its zonation was modified in 1992. The reserve allows some fishing activities and protects fish habitats. In recent years the reserve has been placed under consideration threat because of direct and indirect developments such as the proposed creation of artificial bird habitat at Spit Island, erosion from dredging in Botany Bay, and pollution from the Georges River. The future integrity of the reserve is very important for both the preservation of its biodiversity and for the ecological sustainability of fisheries in the surrounding waters. In particular, the large stands of vulnerable Posidonia seagrass and mangroves are vital as nursery habitats for a large variety of juvenile fish and invertebrates.