Jervis Bay has been selected as one of three new locations for the construction of an Offshore Artificial Reef.
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Artificial reefs are used extensively around the world to create fish habitats.
The reef modules provide the building blocks for a new thriving fish community and monitoring by the Primary Industries department has shown fish rapidly colonise around the structure soon after installation
“Local fishing clubs have been calling for an artificial reef and we know just how popular artificial reefs installed in other parts of the state have been with recreational fishers and anglers up and down the coast,” South Coast MP Shelley Hancock said.
“Now Jervis Bay, the jewel of the South Coast, will get to enjoy not only the fishing, but the benefits of the reef economically.
“I am proud that the NSW Government is committed to supporting regional communities and our recreational fishers who generate over $3.4 billion each year for the economy and create around 14,000 full time jobs.
“The community will of course be consulted as to the final location of the reef and will not be permitted within an area where fishing is not currently allowed, protecting the beautiful and pristine environment of the Jervis Bay marine park.”
The NSW government is still in the planning stages and will begin consultation shortly.
The sites for each reef are carefully selected following detailed consultation to ensure the long-term viability of the reef for current and future generations of recreational fishers in NSW.
The announcement came on Wednesday when the DPI deployed its fourth and largest artificial reef at Port Hacking.
Artificial reefs are currently deployed off Port Macquarie, Sydney Harbour and Shoalhaven Heads.
