BURDEKIN DRY TROPICS NATURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT PLAN 2016-2026
20
BOWEN CATCHMENTS & OFFSHORE
COMMUNITY PRIORITIES
Industry growth and diversification
Our community desires increased co-investment between locals, government and( limited) foreign interests in our tourism, fishing, horticulture, grazing, aquaculture, mining transport infrastructure, renewable energy and solar industries. Mining is a strong economic resource for our region but we also have the opportunity to build the resilience of our agricultural industry by diversifying products and markets, and developing value-adding businesses. We will work with government to reduce red tape and improve export prospects.
Water quality for reef health
Soils for productivity
Our land and soils are interdependent and their health is critical for viable horticultural and livestock operations. We will undertake integrated land management practices to increase soil productivity and minimise sediment loads in local waterways, which can impact on fishing and tourism activities.
Our community would like to showcase our stewardship of the GBR by effectively managing water supply and quality to adapt to climate variability. Reliable water provision can be an issue in our region and some of our community supports the development of the Urannah Dam and Elliot Channel, which would assist broad acre and urban expansion. Greater collaboration for local decision making and targeting of expenditure will help to deliver social, economic and environmental benefits.
Passionate people caring for our landscapes
Our community greatly values the wetlands, beaches, rivers, dunes and woodlands that make up our region. One of our greatest resources is a community that is passionate about caring for these landscapes. Our diverse marine and terrestrial habitats support a variety of industries. We are a small community, and to sustain these environments and industries into the future we need appropriate long-term career pathways and methods to retain NRM professionals with local knowledge. We believe technology can increase community awareness, and may encourage greater local actions to support sustainability.
BOWEN CATCHMENTS & OFFSHORE