James Cook University researchers are calling for urgent action to reverse degradation of Townsville’s coast, with a new study revealing there’s been nearly a 90 per cent decrease in water clarity in the region since the 1960s.
A lot of coral reef in Magnetic Island bays has reportedly turned to rubble, and sandy beaches have become muddy mangroves. The study also shows severe coastal erosion from the Strand to Pallarenda, and a huge decrease in the local population of dugongs.
JCU researchers are calling on the Port of Townsville and Townsville City Council to work together to help our environment recover.
Prof Wolanski says several solutions are proposed in their research paper.
“They are nature-based solutions combined with green engineering and hydrotechnical solutions,” he said.
“It will likely not be possible to restore Cleveland Bay to its semi-pristine status from the 1960s. However, we can still restore a healthy ecosystem using these principles.”
“They are nature-based solutions combined with green engineering and hydrotechnical solutions,” he said.
“It will likely not be possible to restore Cleveland Bay to its semi-pristine status from the 1960s. However, we can still restore a healthy ecosystem using these principles.”
