2.11.0 Research and Monitoring 

2.11.1 Background 

Detailed knowledge of the estuarine resource and impacts of activities upon it is required in order to inform and facilitate decisions about the use and management of the estuary. 

2.11.2 Issues 

2.11.2.1 Limited knowledge about the resource 

Knowledge about the estuarine resource and the impacts of activities upon the resource is limited. Data and information has been generated by specific and relatively short term requirements making accurate description difficult and evaluation and assessment of impacts highly problematic. Sections 2.1-2.9 identify a range of research and monitoring requirements which are necessary to ensure that the effective management of the estuary is achieved.

It is important that the objectives and recommendations in the EMP are monitored to identify any changes that may arise through new information, improved understanding, the performance of policies, legislative change and changing conservation priorities.