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A discussion paper that focuses on preserving the health of the Territory’s rivers has been developed by the Northern Territory Government.

 

The paper outlines a draft Living Rivers Strategy that will make river health a key priority of land and natural resource management. It will set standards for maintaining the ecological, cultural and recreational value of the Territory’s rivers.

 

Environment Minister Alison Anderson today launched the paper and draft strategy, which aims to protect our eco systems and ensure that environmental flows are maintained.

 

Ms Anderson said the Territory’s rivers and water resources were coming under increased pressure from growth in domestic, industrial and agricultural demand.

 

The draft strategy will;

-          establish maintenance of river health as a key consideration in relevant legislation.

-          Provide mechanisms for community involvement in setting and achieving targets for maintaining the function and character of our rivers.

 

“This draft strategy is about looking forward and making sure that our environment can sustain development and still deliver social, recreational and cultural benefits into the future,” Ms Anderson said.

 

“I encourage all Territorians to have their say on the best ways we can maintain river health.

 

“This is about making sure we put a clear plan in place to safeguard sustainable pastoral practices, ensure our clean water supply and to deal effectively with climate change.

 

The draft Living Rivers Strategy is available at www.nt.gov.au/livingrivers

Public submissions close on June 30, 2009.

 

Contact: Shannon McRae 0419 340 735

 

Related files:
Living Rivers Discussion Paper.pdf ( 56.94 kb )