Across Australia in terms of their important wetland (Ramsar, Directory and shorebird site) assets. Working closely with the regional bodies, WIO will transfer skills on recognition and management of these assets through one-to-one, on-site consultation at regional centres and important wetland sites.

The project aims to build the capacity of regional NRM (natural resource management) bodies and landholders for wetland management; to trial a model for skill and information transfer based on in-region and on-site delivery by a mobile wetland specialist; to raise the profile of nationally important wetlands; and to enhance conservation outcomes for wetlands in Australia within existing land-use regimes. Starting early in 2006, it will run over three years.

The focus of the project will be on nationally important wetlands – those listed in the Directory of Important Wetlands in Australia, Ramsar Sites and sites of international importance for migratory shorebirds. At least 12 NRM regions will be supported with emphasis on remote areas of Australia, especially the rangelands.

Types of activity will include identification of needs in the region; delivery of existing information tools & preparation of new tools tailored to local needs; skills transfer activities conducted in-region/on-site; and provision of technical advice and expertise. Value will be added to existing wetland management projects.

This Wetlands International project has been funded by the Australian Government under the National Competitive Component of the Natural Heritage Trust for the period 2006 to 2008. It is a component of Wetland Management Solutions (WMS): a coalition of wetland management organisations and experienced professionals developing a range of methods for information transfer, leading to nation-wide delivery of training and support options that address regional and local issues and needs.

WMS comprises four project elements: building a national, self-funding, wetland management training program (Hunter Wetlands Centre & associates); shorebird conservation ‘toolkit’ (WWF Australia); WetlandLink (WetlandCare Australia); and the Wetlands International project for details of partners and projects).

CONTACT:
Roger Jaensch,
Brisbane office
roger.jaensch@wetlands-oceania.org