Aquaculture Declined in Marlborough Sounds

Media Release 15 May 2004
Friends of Nelson Haven and Tasman Bay Inc.

http://www.nelsonhaven.co.nz
info@nelsonhaven.co.nz

A significant long awaited decision, giving protection to the open waters in the Marlborough Sounds, was released this week by the Environment Court, according to the Friends of Nelson Haven and Tasman Bay, a Nelson based environmental watchdog group.

The decision declining two 42 hectare marine farms out in Beatrix Bay followed a decision against a similar application in neighbouring Forsyth Bay in 2002.

Both these Pelorous Sound bays have an existing coastal ribbon development of mussel farms, and the court found against further industrialisation of the bay due to effects on navigation, natural character and landscape/seascape values, says Steffan Browning, of Friends of Nelson Haven and Tasman Bay, and also The Marlborough Environment Centre.

Both organisations, along with a group of concerned mussel farmers, opposed the applications.

According to Mr Browning, the decision gives a clear message against mid-bay marine farming in the outstanding landscapes and seascapes of the Marlborough Sounds. It also runs contrary to current criticism of the RMA. The decision shows that small organisations can contribute importantly to decision making in finding a balance between development and broader environmental and community values.

ENDS

© Scoop Media

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