Salmon Farming Operations in Tasmania's Macquarie Harbour Face Potential Halt to Protect Endangered Maugean Skate

The Australian Minister for the Environment and Water issued a warning to the Tasmanian Premier, highlighting the potential need to temporarily halt salmon farming operations in Tasmania's Macquarie Harbor. This is to safeguard the endangered Maugean skate (Rajidae-Diptirus maugeana), a species exclusively found in this unique harbor. Macquarie Harbor serves as the last refuge for this ancient fish, now teetering on the brink of extinction due to deteriorating water quality, primarily attributed to salmon farming activities and other harbor uses. The presence of multiple salmon farms in the vicinity complicates the challenge.

Conservation experts propose reducing salmon loads as a key water quality solution, but industry resistance calls for a balanced approach. Tasmania authorities remain supportive of the salmon sector, crucial for local jobs, while also proactively safeguarding the endangered Maugean skate. A USD 2.1 million Skate Recovery Fund has been initiated, fostering collaboration among Salmon Tasmania, harbor operators, and the national recovery team to devise a comprehensive Conservation Action Plan. This collective effort focuses on elevating oxygen levels in Macquarie Harbor and protecting the Maugean skate from extinction.