Lord Howe Island Marine Park (Commonwealth waters) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Lord Howe Island Marine Park (Commonwealth waters)Australia |
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IUCN Category VI (Managed Resource Protected Area)
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Location of Lord Howe Island in the Tasman Sea
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| Established | 2000 |
| Area | 3,000.63 km2 (1,158.5 sq mi) |
| Managing authorities | Commonwealth Department of the Environment |
| Website | Lord Howe Island Marine Park (Commonwealth waters) |
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| UNESCO World Heritage Site | |
| Official name | Lord Howe Island Group |
| Location | Australia |
| Criteria | Natural: (vii)(x) |
| Inscription | 1982 (6th Session) |
The Lord Howe Island Marine Park (Commonwealth waters) was a special area in the ocean. It was set up to protect the waters around Lord Howe Island in Australia. This park was managed by the Australian government's Department of the Environment.
It was next to another marine park managed by the state of New South Wales. In 2012, this park was replaced by a new, larger protected area. This new area is called the Lord Howe Commonwealth Marine Reserve.
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What is a Marine Park?
A marine park is like a national park, but for the ocean. It is a special place where the ocean and its creatures are protected. Governments create these parks to keep marine life safe. This includes fish, corals, plants, and other animals.
Marine parks help protect different ocean habitats. These can be coral reefs, seagrass beds, or deep-sea areas. They are important for keeping our oceans healthy.
Why are Marine Parks Important?
Marine parks help protect many different kinds of ocean life. They keep important habitats safe from harm. This helps fish and other animals have places to live and breed.
These parks also let scientists study the ocean. They can learn more about how marine ecosystems work. Some parts of marine parks also allow people to enjoy activities. These might include snorkeling, diving, or boating.
About Lord Howe Island
Lord Howe Island is a small, beautiful island. It is located in the Tasman Sea, which is part of the Pacific Ocean. The island is about 600 kilometers (370 miles) east of mainland Australia.
The island was formed by volcanoes millions of years ago. It has amazing cliffs, mountains, and clear blue waters. Lord Howe Island is home to many unique plants and animals. Some of these are found nowhere else in the world.
World Heritage Site
Because of its special nature, the Lord Howe Island Group is a World Heritage Site. This means it is recognized by UNESCO as a place of great importance. It has outstanding natural beauty and unique wildlife. This special status helps protect the island and its surrounding waters.
The Original Marine Park
The Lord Howe Island Marine Park (Commonwealth waters) was created in the year 2000. It covered a large area of ocean around Lord Howe Island. The main goal was to protect the marine environment there.
This park was managed by the Commonwealth Department of the Environment. This is a part of the Australian government. They worked to make sure the rules of the park were followed.
Adjacent State Park
Right next to this Commonwealth park was another marine park. This one was managed by the state of New South Wales. It was called the Lord Howe Island Marine Park (NSW). Together, these parks aimed to protect the entire area.
The New Marine Reserve
In 2012, the original Commonwealth marine park changed. It was replaced by a new, larger protected area. This new area is called the Lord Howe Commonwealth Marine Reserve.
This change was made to give even better protection to the ocean around Lord Howe Island. It helps make sure that the amazing marine life there stays safe for the future. The new reserve covers a bigger area and has updated rules.
Why Protect This Area?
The waters around Lord Howe Island are very special. They are where tropical and temperate ocean currents meet. This mix of currents creates a unique environment. It supports a wide variety of marine life.
You can find beautiful coral reefs here. There are also many different kinds of fish, sharks, and sea turtles. Rare seabirds also use the island and its waters. Protecting this area helps keep these amazing creatures safe.
