The Federal Government’s decision to buy back water for the devastated Macquarie Marshes and Gwydir wetlands in NSW is only a small first step to rectify decades of environmental degradation, said Ian Cohen, NSW Greens Upper House MP.
“This first move to buy back water from landholders for the environment is welcome, but much more is needed to satisfy the thirst of these wetlands,” he said.
“For the Macquarie Marshes alone about 140,000 megalitres of water needs to be returned to ensure the health of the wetland’s ecosystem, which at current prices would cost $280 million.
“This is not an optional extra for the Government. Under the Ramsar convention, the ecological character of listed wetlands must be maintained.
“The NSW Government made its funding announcement for this recovery program a year ago. It is disappointing that the Federal Government took another 12 months to come up with the money.”
Further information: Claire O’Rourke 0409 810 139 or 9230 3305
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