Ramsar!

["Brian Everingham" <>]

Julian asked about the list of contacts regarding the Ramsar Convention here in Australia. It is important to note that Ramsar, the Convention designed to protect wetlands of international significance, is not always capable of effective, rapid response to local wetlands issues. Ramsar is an international framework and as such does an excellent job. Details of this Convention can be found at http://ramsar.org/ The URL provides the text of the agreement and the various papers associated with the COPs since its formation. Well worth a browse. Especially as the Convention was first established to protect waterbirds.

 

To get a feel as to how the Ramsar Convention works in Australia visit http://www.biodiversity.environment.gov.au/environm/wetlands/ramsar/ramaust.htm

It is also useful if you have a look at the online Directory of Wetlands of National Importance as well. This can be found at http://www.biodiversity.environment.gov.au/environm/wetlands/directory/wetdir.htm A most effective resource.

 

However, the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 does have a trigger to enable Commonwealth intervention in response to threats to wetlands of international significance but at this stage just what those triggers will be and what the response is likely to be is still being formulated. It is worth asking but don't expect a rapid reply.

 

The list of contacts in Environment Australia devoted to wetlands protection can be found at http://www.biodiversity.environment.gov.au/environm/wetlands/unitlist.htm#HDRunit

Ask them about the best means of protecting wetlands in your area but remember that State Governments and Local governments are the key at this level. Get to know your local levels of government and do not be afraid to make them accountable. I can not answer for Qld but perhaps the best source of help might be the local non-government organisations. There are some excellent ones there that are devoted to wetlands protection and they would appreciate the support of local people on the ground. For specifics contact Hegerl, Eddie E-mail Address:    or Tarte, Di
E-mail Address:   Both are experienced in wetlands protection in Qld and can no doubt explain the intricacies of Qld government as well.

 

I hope this is of value to all birding-aus people interested in wetlands protection in Australia.

 

Brian Everingham

Hon Secretary

National Parks Association of NSW