Environment Minister Stephen Dawson has today released the joint management plan for conservation reserves in the south-west Kimberley and the north-west Pilbara.
The plan covers Walyarta Conservation Park, Kurriji Pa Yajula Nature Reserve and a strip of coastal parks and reserves located directly adjacent to Eighty Mile Beach Marine Park.
The area contains nationally and internationally significant wetlands, important ecological communities, endemic wildlife and threatened species like the greater bilby (Macrotis lagotis).
Together with the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, the Karajarri, Nyangumarta and Ngarla people will jointly manage the parks and reserves within their country.
The area has special significance to traditional owners, with recognition of their spiritual connection to country and their cultural aspirations being key features of the joint management plan.
The plan was developed by the Conservation and Parks Commission and its joint vesting partners, the Nyangumarta Karajarri Aboriginal Corporation, Karajarri Traditional Lands Association, Nyangumarta Warrarn Aboriginal Corporation and Wanparta Aboriginal Corporation. The plan is available to view at https://pws.dbca.wa.gov.au/parks/management-plans/approved-management-plans
As stated by Environment Minister Stephen Dawson:
"The release of this final plan is an important milestone in the management of conservation estate across the Kimberley and the Pilbara, and a great example of collaboration between joint management partners.
"The McGowan Government is committed to building more joint management and employment arrangements with traditional owner groups, through key initiatives like the Aboriginal Ranger Program and Plan for Our Parks.
"This plan addresses existing pressures on the values of the parks and reserves, such as weeds, bushfire and introduced species like camels, donkeys and feral cats. This plan supports the involvement of neighbouring land managers to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of landscape-scale conservation efforts."
Minister's office - 6552 5800
