Fishers interested in having input to the long term management of South Australia’s Snapper fishery, are being reminded that the public consultation period for the draft options paper ends 31 January 2012.

In November last year, Fisheries Minister Gail Gago invited public comment on the draft Management Options for Snapper in South Australia paper to ensure the future, long term sustainability of Snapper stocks.

Executive Director, PIRSA Fisheries and Aquaculture, Professor Mehdi Doroudi, said response to the paper had been high.

“PIRSA Fisheries and Aquaculture have received a number of submissions from passionate fishers in both commercial and recreational sectors,” Professor Doroudi said.

Have your say on SA's snapper fishery.  Pic courtesy of Lemax Fishing

“We appreciate the efforts of all who have participated in the consultation process and encourage any interested members of the public to take advantage of this opportunity to review the paper and have their say.

“The end result will see the introduction of new management arrangements that effectively control the impact of fishing activities on Snapper stocks, optimise Snapper spawning and recruitment and ultimately support a sustainable Snapper fishery.”

Comments will be collated and provided to the Snapper Working Group comprising representatives from commercial and recreational fishing sectors, SARDI and PIRSA, and used to inform the department’s recommendations to the Minister for Fisheries on how to proceed with future Snapper management arrangements.

The Options Paper, a related Background Paper and a Community Feedback Form are available online at www.pir.sa.gov.au/fishing

Submissions must be provided in writing by Tuesday 31 January 2012.