THE ECONOMICS OF FRESHWATER IMPOUNDMENT FISHERIES.

There is an emerging trend today of being asked to "substantiate your case", particularly when negotiating with Government and it's agencies. And in most instances, this is probably fair enough. And again in most instances, very little, if any data is available. This is certainly the case when dealing with the Queensland Fisheries Service on freshwater fishing issues.

Evaluating the economic and social impact of recreational fisheries enhancement in freshwater impoundments, is one area where some raw information is being collected. It may not be absolute, but a far cry from nothing. FFSAQ believes that before the full potential of freshwater fishing in Queensland can be accomplished , the social and economic value must be substantiated. Only then, will freshwater be recognized.

A joint project between Queensland Fisheries Service and the Central Queensland University has just been completed. It's objectives were: (1) To estimate the value of recreational fishing at impoundments, and the impact on local economies. (2) To identify key factors influencing demand for freshwater recreational fishing, and to evaluate economic benefits from alternative uses of impounded water. (3) To evaluate cost effectiveness of current fish stocking programs in impoundments. Bjelke-Petersen Dam, Boondooma Dam, and Fairburn Dam were identified to be surveyed over a twelve month period. Surveys at each dam were undertaken on a weekly basis. The outcomes of the project will enable a proper evaluation for alternative uses of impounded water, and establish a framework for evaluating and justifying recreational fishery development as a source of economic activity and development in rural Queensland.

FFSAQ is most appreciative that DPI has allocated funds from its Improved Regional Service Delivery program (IRSD) to enable this data collection to be undertaken. It is FFSAQ's opinion, that the future enhancement of freshwater fishing, impinges on the recognition that it is a worthy attribute to our community wellbeing.

Let's hope the outcomes of this survey will contribute to that !