Sessional Committee on Environment and Sustainable Development Written Submissions Received Volume 2 Issues associated with the progressive entry into the Northern Territory of Cane Toads October 2003
Tabled Paper 1123
Tabled Papers for 9th Assembly 2001 - 2005; Tabled Papers; ParliamentNT
2003-10-16
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https://www.legislation.gov.au/Details/C2019C00042
https://hdl.handle.net/10070/307061
https://hdl.handle.net/10070/346011
Written Submissions Dr Kennett Volume 2 Cane Toad Inquiry Report 135 SUBMISSION NO. 18 Dr Rod Kennett Jabiru PO Box 518 JABIRU NT 0886 21 May 2003 Sessional Committee on Environment and Sustainable Development Dear Committee In regard to the Inquiry into Issues Associated with the Progressive Entry into the Northern Territory of Cane Toads, I offer the following comments. SUMMARY Cane toads are of significant concern, particularly amongst Indigenous people in the NT. Cane toads are also of significant threat to wildlife and may have serious consequences for species of conservation significance as well as human health. Cane toads have colonised much of the NT, and most of the NT population will need to learn to live with toads until an effective bio-control agent is developed. However there are some areas, especially offshore islands, that remain toad free and an important opportunity exists to establish measures that will ensure that key areas remain toad free. Co-ordination of existing research activities as well as new research initiatives are urgently required to better understand the impacts of cane toads on wildlife and people in order to develop appropriate management responses. SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS Establish a cane toad taskforce Identify toad free areas within the NT with a focus on offshore islands, and determine their feasibility as permanent toad free locations Establish measures (quarantine, monitoring, eradication) to prevent cane toad introduction to and colonisation of offshore islands, especially the Tiwi Islands and Croker Island Undertake research on the cultural and economic impact of cane toads on Indigenous communities in the NT (and possibly across the northern WA), as a basis for advising indigenous communities on management responses (e.g. limitations to traditional harvest) Develop effective communication tools to prevent the unnecessary spread of cane toads (especially to toad free areas), and to raise awareness about the potential impacts of toads on wildlife and people. Direct Government support (training, finance) to Aboriginal ranger programs to assist them in addressing the spread and impact of cane toads Review the progress and expected outcomes of existing cane toad research projects in order to identify where additional funding is required Develop new research projects that will provide us with a better understanding of the impacts of cane toads on key species of cultural and conservation significance.