Investigator Marine Park facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Investigator Marine Park South Australia
A diver carrying out survey work within the marine park.
Investigator Marine Park Location in South Australia
Nearest town or city	Elliston
Established	29 January 2009
Area	1,185 square kilometres (458 sq mi)
Managing authorities	Department of Environment and Water
Website	Investigator Marine Park

The Investigator Marine Park is a special ocean area in South Australia. It's like a protected underwater park! This park is located off the west coast of the Eyre Peninsula. It also includes islands in the Investigator Group, near the town of Elliston.

This marine park helps protect the amazing sea creatures and their homes. It was officially created on January 29, 2009.

What is the Investigator Marine Park?

The Investigator Marine Park is made up of four main parts. These parts stretch from the coastline out into the ocean.

• One part is along the coast of the Eyre Peninsula. It goes from Point Drummond to just south of Elliston. This part also includes Cap Island.
• Another part surrounds Flinders Island and the Topgallant Islands.
• The third part is around the Ward Islands.
• The fourth part surrounds the Pearson Isles.

Protecting Our Ocean: Park Zones

The marine park is divided into different zones. Each zone has special rules to protect the ocean environment. These rules help keep the habitats and animals safe. They also allow for some careful use of the ocean.

Sanctuary Zones

There are three "sanctuary zones" in the park. These are like super-protected areas.

• One is near Sheringa on the coastline.
• The other two surround the Topgallant Islands and Pearson Isles.
• In these zones, you are not allowed to remove or harm any plants, animals, or marine products. It's a safe space for nature to thrive!

Habitat Protection Zones

The park also has six "habitat protection zones." These zones focus on keeping the ocean's habitats healthy.

• Three of these zones are along the coastline.
• The other three are around the islands in the Investigator Group.
• In these areas, only activities that do not harm the habitats or ecosystems are allowed. This means fishing or other activities might be permitted if they don't damage the environment.

General Managed Use Zones

There are three "general managed use zones." These zones are located along the coastline.

• In these areas, people can use the ocean in ways that are good for both nature and people.
• This means activities are allowed as long as they are sustainable. They must not harm the environment in the long run.

International Protection Categories

As of 2016, the different zones of the Investigator Marine Park are recognized by an international system. This system is from the International Union for Conservation of Nature.

• The "sanctuary zones" are like National Parks. They are called IUCN Category II.
• The "habitat protection zones" are for managing habitats and species. They are called IUCN Category IV.
• The "general managed use zones" allow for sustainable use of natural resources. They are called IUCN Category VI.