Pilbara and 80 Mile Beach planning process

Multiple objectives, one marine planning process

The human 'footprint' in the Pilbara and lower west Kimberley (Eighty Mile Beach) marine environment is growing and there is a need for more integrated marine planning and management so that our marine environment remains in good condition.

One strategy is to expand the marine park and reserve system in the Pilbara and lower west Kimberley (Eighty Mile Beach) regions as part of a comprehensive, adequate and representative marine parks and reserves system in Western Australia.

In December 2006, the Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC) began a planning process to expand the terrestrial and marine park and reserve system in the Pilbara and Eighty Mile Beach regions.

Proposed Pilbara and Eighty Mile Beach marine parks and reserves will help conserve the rich biodiversity of the area, including providing additional protection for marine turtles. They would also contribute to environmental mitigation and offset measures associated with the proposed Gorgon Gas development on Barrow Island. In leading the design and location of a proposed network of parks and reserves, DEC is drawing on comprehensive, adequate and representative (CAR) reserve design criteria. Planning has also included the principe of maximising biodiversity conservation outcomes while providing opportunities for commercial and recreational uses. 

Click to view large map

 Pilbara and 80 Mile Beach: multiple objectives, one marine planning process