Environmental groups, canegrowers and community members will receive the results of extensive mangrove dieback research on Friday.

Large-scale dieback of the grey mangrove “Avicennia marina” in Mackay has been investigated over the past two years through a Coast and Clean Seas Natural Heritage Trust funded project.

The investigation of the mangrove dieback has involved a coordinated approach from Department of Primary Industries, University of Queensland, Central Queensland University and Mackay local community.

Project co-ordinator Judith Wake said the partnership was formed to explore and understand the causes of the mangrove dieback through a series of field surveys and experiments.

“It’s very important that Mackay residents are aware of the changes in the structure and health of their local mangrove forests and understand how these changes may affect the wildlife that depends on this critical habitat,” she said. “In particular, the dieback of mangroves can have a dramatic effect on the productivity of the local fisheries habitat.

A summary of findings and the project conclusions will be presented for public comment at Central Queensland University on Friday November 22 at 3pm. For further information contact the coordinator, Dr Judith Wake, Department of Primary Industries, Tennyson Street on 49670607.

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