Central Coast Council has released a summary report on the implementation of the Tuggerah Lakes Estuary Management Plan (EMP), and the actions and achievements to date.

The report reflects on the Estuary Management Plan in the lead up to a new Coastal Management Program for Tuggerah Lakes.

Council Unit Manager of Environmental Management, Luke Sulkowski said that implementing the EMP has been an ongoing partnership between all levels of government, estuary and coastal management experts, and the community.

“Since 2008 Council has spent $26.5 million in grants, with 86 of the 100 actions identified by the EMP completed or ongoing,” Mr Sulkowski said.

“The EMP outlines a holistic and scientific approach to managing the estuary, with primary objectives focusing on protecting the estuaries’ water quality, plants and biodiversity, as well as meeting the social and economic needs of the community.

“This summary report outlines the frameworks and objectives underlying Council’s management of Tuggerah Lakes, and goes into detail about how funding has been spent, and the key outcomes and achievements that have been delivered.

“Looking forward, we will continue this work, and expand into the catchments of Budgewoi Lake and Lake Munmorah to achieve good outcomes there,” said Mr Sulkowski.

The summary report provides an overview of the characteristics of Tuggerah Lakes estuary, the issues impacting it, and the actions Council has taken to protect the health of the lakes ecosystem and the immeasurable value it has to the Central Coast Community.

The information in the report is also available via video on Council’s YouTube channel, offering an easy and accessible way to learn more about the Tuggerah Lakes system, key challenges and how Council is managing these challenges.

View the summary report at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/tuggerahlakesestuary