The spectacular coastal scenery and forests south of Manjimup and west of Walpole will continue to be protected following today’s release of a management plan for Shannon and D’Entrecasteaux national parks. The national parks are a network of karri forests, grasslands, coastal woodlands, granite outcrops, wetlands and sensitive flora and fauna habitat. Environment Minister Bill Marmion said Shannon and D’Entrecasteaux national parks contained a diverse array of nature-based recreation and tourism opportunities, including picnicking, camping, recreational driving, cycling, bushwalking, canoeing, abseiling and fishing.
“The plan will set the direction for management of the parks, including protecting conservation values,” Mr Marmion said.
“It will also provide a platform for further recreation opportunities, such as having the Munda Biddi Trail traverse Shannon National Park, which I’m sure will be welcomed by mountain bike enthusiasts.
“Shannon National Park features the Shannon River water catchment and extensive old-growth and regrowth karri forest, while D’Entrecasteaux National Park is known for its rugged coastlines, beaches and dune systems as well as nationally significant wetlands.”
The Minister said the passage of the world famous Bibbulmun Track through the parks provided a unique opportunity for the community to explore the area and become involved with the volunteer group, Friends of the Bibbulmun Track.
Fact File
171,778ha planning area on the south coast of Western Australia
Plan covers Shannon and D’Entrecasteaux national parks
Copies of the plan can be obtained from DEC’s Kensington, Perth, Manjimup and Pemberton offices, or follow the links on DEC’s website at http://www.dec.wa.gov.au/landmanagementplanning
Plan prepared by DEC in consultation with local community, on behalf of Conservation Commission of WA
Regards
Andrew
