Controlling pollution in the Derwent Estuary, Tasmania : issues of standards and management

The Derwent estuary, Tasmania has been described as one of the most polluted estuaries in Australia, yet it supports a population of only 172 000 people and has only 3 major industries discharging effluent into its waters. This study aims to provide an historical overview of the use of the estuary that has caused it to receive such a reputation and to examine the responses by governments to controlling pollution since the problems were recognised in the early 1970's. A review of the major reports by scientists and other professionals concerning the impacts of pollution on the estuarine system over the last twenty years has been included to indicate the types of projects that have been undertaken in response to the perceived problems. Most studies, until recently, have been done to examine a single issue, such as heavy metals in fish, or the impact of wood fibre or sewage effluent. The review also provides a comprehensive summary of the current state of knowledge about the Derwent estuary and a background of information on which the political response and management strategies to date can be assessed. The rehabilitation of the tidal Thames, England is examined with a view to determining the processes that made it successful and which may be modified to suit a programme of rehabilitation for the Derwent estuary. A possible future institutional arrangement for care of the Derwent catchment is proposed. This entails the establishment of a central body which would concentrate on consulting the community to determine their priorities for the estuary. The task of undertaking a systematic baseline study of the estuary would be also be the responsibility of such a body. Both these tasks must be undertaken before making decisions about future management strategies.