Goose Island Aquatic Reserve facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Goose Island Aquatic ReserveSouth Australia |
|
|---|---|
|
IUCN Category II (National Park)
|
|
 Goose Island Aquatic Reserve
Location in South Australia
|
|
| Nearest town or city | Port Victoria |
| Established | 1 December 1971 |
| Area | 51 hectares (130 acres) |
| Managing authorities | Primary Industries and Regions SA (PIRSA) |
| Footnotes | Coordinates Nearest town |
| See also | Protected areas of South Australia |
Goose Island Aquatic Reserve is a special protected area in the ocean. It's located in South Australia, near a town called Port Victoria. This reserve includes the waters around Goose Island, Little Goose Island, and White Rock Island in the Spencer Gulf.
About Goose Island Aquatic Reserve
Goose Island Aquatic Reserve is like a safe home for marine life. It helps protect the plants and animals that live in the ocean. This area is important for learning about the sea and its creatures.
Why is it Protected?
This special area was created on November 30, 1971. Its main goal is to protect the amazing ocean life there. It also provides a place where schools and scientists can study marine biology. This includes learning about how sea creatures live and interact. The reserve also protects a group of seals that live on White Rock Island.
The aquatic reserve covers all the waters within 100 meters (about 330 feet) of Goose Island, Little Goose Island, and White Rock Island.
What Can You Do There?
Some activities are not allowed to keep the marine life safe. For example, you cannot fish or collect any plants or animals from the water. This helps make sure the ecosystem stays healthy.
However, many fun activities are allowed! You can use boats, go swimming, or explore underwater. Snorkelling and scuba diving are great ways to see the marine life up close.
Part of a Bigger Park
Since 2012, Goose Island Aquatic Reserve has been part of something even bigger. It is now inside a "sanctuary zone" within the Eastern Spencer Gulf Marine Park. A sanctuary zone is an area with extra protection for nature.
This aquatic reserve is also known as an IUCN Category II protected area. This means it's recognized internationally for its importance in conservation. It's managed to protect ecosystems and offer recreational activities.
