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South Coast Natural Resource Management and The University of Western Australia's Centre of Excellence in Natural Resource Management (CENRM) have formed a partnership to boost research, planning and delivery of natural resource management in the State's south coast region.

Driven by a desire to forge a closer working relationship, the partners have signed a Memorandum of Understanding which will lead to improved investment in restoration and conservation of the land and water assets of the south coast.

South Coast NRM is an independent not-for-profit group that works with the community to improve the environment by preserving and protecting unique plants and animals; managing land and waterways sustainably and economically; and sharing knowledge and skill, including Indigenous knowledge, in natural resource management.

CENRM's activities are centred on the scientific, economic and social dimensions of natural resource management including the teaching of undergraduate courses; supervision of postgraduate research; enhancing knowledge and understanding of resource management at regional, national and international levels; and supporting and informing communities.

It is expected the partnership will generate greater educational and employment opportunities for resource management professionals in the region.

South Coast NRM chief executive Rob Edkins said the partners had significant interests in common and had already collaborated in several ways including the provision of university student placements in South Coast NRM projects and CENRM academic staff participation on South Coast NRM committees and working parties.

"We plan to work constructively together to help our collective interests grow and to consolidate ourselves as viable business entities into the future.  Opportunities will also be developed to promote cross membership of the organisations to enhance benefits to members," Mr Edkins said.

CENRM director Professor Peter Davies explained the partners would provide facilities for the education and training of professionals and volunteers in natural resource management and improve opportunities for university students seeking practical experiences as part of, or in addition to, their studies.

"This agreement will provide a link between the research, education and management of the natural resources on the south coast and should improve the outcomes of both organisations," he said.

The MOU will be reviewed annually and renewed by mutual agreement.

Media references

Jenelle Carter (+61 8)  9845 8521  /  (+61 4) 28 928 536
Communications and Public Relations Coordinator, South Coast NRM
Professor Peter Davies (+61 8)  9842 0836
Director, Centre of Excellence in NRM
Janine MacDonald (UWA Public Affairs)  (+61 8)  6488 5563  /  (+61 4) 32 637 716