To do this we have a broad range of scientific and technical skills in the team: from ecology and physiology, and understanding the species that live and co-exist in the coastal zone, to mapping and modelling, and understanding how those species can and do interact.
We have a highly skilled and capable field team, with access to boats that can operate out to 5 nautical miles from the coast. We can undertake field studies inshore and nearshore to evaluate potential interactions, impacts and recovery on the seabed, water column and adjacent reefs. Our modelling team can predict potential interactions, and we can advise on monitoring, management and mitigation strategies. We provide advice to new and existing marine farmers, evaluate risk for managers and help the community better understand their coastal environments and the potential for interactions in the areas they are most concerned about. We can advise on governance structures, and management and policy implications.
We work closely with the state government through the Sustainable Marine Research Collaboration Agreement (SMRCA) a funding agreement through which IMAS provides research and development support and services to the Crown, the University, and to commercial, recreational, and indigenous seafood sectors. However, we also collaborate widely with stakeholders nationally and internationally, and as such have a broad portfolio of research collaborations as well as contract research. Check out our current project mix here.
