An expansion of Queensland’s crocodile management plan will improve public safety and make it easier to remove the apex predators, the state government says.<\/p>\n
Environment minister Andrew Powell told parliament the plan bolstered removal zones at Ingham, Mulgrave, and Mareeba.<\/p>\n
“If a crocodile turns up in a water body outside its typical habitat we will target it for removal,” he said.<\/p>\n
“Far too often we hear reports of a croc turning up somewhere where it shouldn’t. This plan ensures community safety in those areas.”<\/p>\n
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Andrew Powell says the plan’s expansion will improve public safety and is the most significant upgrade in seven years. (ABC News: Lucas Hill)<\/p>\n
The Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service will undertake patrols of the Tyto Wetlands at Ingham and remove any crocodiles.<\/p>\n
Crocodiles bigger than two metres long and displaying dangerous behaviour will be removed from three high-use waterholes on the Mulgrave River.<\/p>\n
Crocs found at the Barron River and the Southedge Dam, near Mareeba, will be targeted for removal when reported by the public.<\/p>\n
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The government says the plan will allow better targeting and removal of crocodiles. (ABC News: Rachael Merritt)<\/p>\n
Mr Powell told parliament the plan was the most significant update to crocodile management in seven years.<\/p>\n
“It will continue the crocodile safety campaign. It will work with traditional owners, and it will ensure conservation of this iconic space for future generations,” he said.<\/p>\n
“It’s a sensible plan that strikes the right balance between safety and conservation.”<\/p>\n
The plan will be reviewed every five years to ensure it reflects the needs of the community.<\/p>\n
Opposition hopes plan ‘led by science’<\/p>\n
Shadow environment minister Leanne Linard was critical of government over the time it took to finalise the plan.<\/p>\n