A dugong research strategy for the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area and Hervey Bay

Abstract

A coordinated research strategy was developed in response to a request from a task force set up to implement decisions of the Great Barrier Reef Ministerial Council in relation to the conservation of dugongs in the Great Barrier Reef Region from Cooktown south. The aim of this strategy is to advise research providers and managers of the priorities for information that will assist in the recovery and maintenance of dugong populations in the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area and Hervey Bay regions. It was developed through an extensive consultation process involving research providers, management agencies, potential funding agencies and representatives of key stakeholder groups including commercial fishers, indigenous groups and conservation groups. This strategy includes a prioritised list of research projects divided into four categories according to areas of management need.