The Department of Agriculture and Water Resources has approved a 12 month extension for the development of the National Carp Control Plan.
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Head of biosecurity policy at the department, Josephine Laduzko, said the additional time allowed for critical research to continue and further engagement with potentially affected communities.
“The extension for the plan provides the opportunity to align the science with practical and effective implementation options,” Ms Laduzko said.
“We want to ensure the issues encountered from the work undertaken so far are addressed, as well as questions raised through community and stakeholder consultation.
“Successful control of carp would improve water quality and bring benefits to farmers, industry, communities and the environment, particularly in the Murray-Darling Basin.
“This is a comprehensive and coordinated assessment, and once completed, will play a critical role in government’s decision on whether or not to proceed with release of the virus.
“Whether to release the carp virus to control carp is a big decision and it is essential that we get this early work right. There will be extensive further public consultation before any final decisions are made.”
The Fisheries Research and Development Corporation is leading the development of the plan through a $10.2 million grant, alongside relevant Commonwealth agencies, state and territory governments and research agencies.
For more information on the National Carp Control Plan, go to http://www.carp.gov.au/.