The Department of Land Resource Management (DLRM) is conducting seagrass mapping surveys in the inner parts of Darwin Harbour as part of the Darwin Harbour monitoring program.

DLRM Marine Ecosystems Director, Dr Tony Griffiths said the seagrass mapping would be taking place throughout the dry season to support conservation measures which ensure the long-term resilience of seagrass ecosystems.

"DLRM staff, working with Larrakia rangers, will map the seagrass cover using a remote camera, at many sites throughout the Darwin Harbour," Dr Griffiths said. 

"Seagrasses are the main diet for many of our protected marine life such as dugongs and green turtles and they also help to stop beach erosion so it’s vital we do what we can to protect this marine habitat.

"Seagrasses are at risk from a reduction in water quality and extreme climatic events. For example, the recent poor wet season in the Top End may cause some die-off of seagrass due to the increased amount of hot weather.

"It is important for everyone to work together and look after this valuable habitat by limiting the amount of rubbish/sediment in stormwater and avoid disturbing these areas during the large low tides.

“Seagrass surveys raises awareness on the condition and trends of near shore seagrass ecosystems and provides an early warning of any major environmental changes in Darwin Harbour.”

The surveys originated from community concerns about seagrass loss and community interest in science, as well as government objectives in long-term monitoring of critical habitats for Darwin Harbour.

The survey is expected to be completed by November and the results will be available to the public.

Media contact – Jordan Raymond-Monro, 8999 4726