New monitoring equipment has been installed at Jurien Boat Harbour to collect data about wind and wave conditions as part of an ongoing investigation into environmental problems in the local area, Transport Minister Dean Nalder said today.
Mr Nalder said the data would be used in computer modelling to determine how to improve water quality and reduce seagrass accumulation over the long term.
The Department of Transport has installed an acoustic, wave and current device on the seabed outside the harbour entrance to record wind speed and direction, plus wave height and direction. Two fixed cameras are now in place to provide information on changes to the beach and channel entrance.
The Minister said he expected further equipment, including a wind data station, would be installed this month to provide critical information to better understand the seagrass and sand transport at the harbour.
The Jurien Boat Harbour Steering Committee, chaired by Moore MLA Shane Love, was set up earlier this year to advise the Government on strategies to address water quality and seagrass accumulation issues at the harbour.
Mr Nalder said the recent appointment of community representative Ian Stiles to the steering committee would boost the consultative approach to addressing the issues at the harbour.
The committee also includes representatives from the Shire of Dandaragan, Wheatbelt Development Commission, Department of Parks and Wildlife and harbour manager, Department of Transport.
Fact File
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