SCIENCE HELPS MAKE COASTAL DEVELOPMENT ECOFRIENDLY

New research by CRC Reef scientists will help to make coastal development more ecofriendly.

"We are measuring how long seagrasses can survive under reduced light conditions," said Dr Vicki Hall, a researcher with the Cooperative Research Centre for the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area. "It will help us decide on the best way to manage dredging and coastal development programs to ensure the long-term survival of seagrass meadows."

"Seagrasses are important in coastal marine areas. They are the main diet of dugongs and provide a habitat for many, much smaller marine animals, some of which, like prawns, are commercially important" said Dr Hall.

"We're also collating information about the reproductive strategies of seagrasses so we can better understand their recovery after both natural and anthropogenic disturbances," said Dr Hall.

"Using knowledge about their survival under reduced light conditions as well as their reproductive strategies, we can ensure better recovery of seagrasses after disturbance and promote their long-term survival."

This project was set up by the CRC Reef Research Centre Ltd in association with Townsville City Council.

"We are keen to reduce the impact of coastal development projects on marine life," said Councillor Ann Bunnell, Deputy Mayor and Chair of Environmental Services Committee with the Townsville City Council.

"The results of this project will help us to better manage coastal development projects both here in Townsville and in other tropical towns," Councillor Bunnell said.

The CRC Reef is one of about 70 Cooperative Research Centres in Australia. It is tackling some of the big issues facing the marine environment.

"The CRC Reef is providing strategic scientific information to address the engineering, environmental and social challenges faced by the increasing use of the World Heritage Area," said Dr Hall.

Dr Hall is available for comment on 07 4781 4508. Councillor Bunnell is available on 07 47279203. For further information ring CRC Reef Communication Coordinator Louise Goggin 0402 243 116 or 07 47298404.