Impact of large scale agriculture development on recreational fishing industry and nature based tourism in the Daly River

WRITTEN QUESTIONS
9th Assembly



01/07/2003

42. Impact of large scale agriculture development on recreational fishing industry and nature based tourism in the Daly River

Mr Wood to MINISTER for Primary Industry and Fisheries


Hide details for QUESTIONQUESTION
Has the Government undertaken an assessment of the potential impacts of large scale agriculture development on the recreational fishing industry and nature based tourism industry in the Daly River.

Hide details for ANSWERANSWER

Answered on 14/10/2003

Key Points

There is no new large scale, agricultural development planned for the Daly River. The Katherine Daly Basin is the best agricultural area in the NT, (soil and climate) and agriculture production has been intensifying gradually in the area since the NT was settled.

Agricultural development is largely based on more intensive cattle production from improved pastures, with some hay production, irrigated agriculture and horticulture production.

Land clearing and development have occurred at Scott Creek/Willeroo in the 1960s, Tipperary prior to 1990, Douglas Daly in the 1980s, Stray Creek currently, and in the Katherine area throughout the period.

In total, 10% of the Basin has been developed over the years without adverse affects on water quality, or adverse affects on recreational fishing, or nature based tourism.
The Government is not complacent, or unaware of the possible consequences of over utilisation of natural resources, and to this end, Government will be considering the integrated planning framework to be used for the development of the Daly Basin.

The framework will take into account all aspects of land and water resource capability of the area they relate to, along with bio diversity conservation.

It will include the use of the best available information and scientific data, as well as undertaking full consultation with the public and the stakeholders of the area.

The integrated planning framework will provide direction for a Conservation Strategy, a Water Allocation Plan and a Land Use Plan for the Daly Basin.
Last updated: 03 Aug 2016