1 December 2010

With the beginning of summer upon us, marine managers and scientists are keeping a close eye on the Great Barrier Reef.

High sea surface temperatures, cyclones and flood runoff are all associated with the Queensland summer and can pose a threat to the health of the Reef.

Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA) Chairman Russell Reichelt said marine managers and scientists have met to discuss how the Reef might fare over this summer.

"Predictions from the Bureau of Meteorology for this summer include above average rainfall and increased cyclone activity," he said.

"This could result in increased cloud cover which can help to keep sea surface temperatures at average levels.

"While these conditions may reduce the threat of heat and light stress, corals may be affected by other impacts, such as cyclones and flood plumes.

"Over summer, field officers from the Department of Environment and Resource Management and several tourism operators will be undertaking surveys of the Reef's health.

"The surveys will provide early warning of any problems such as coral bleaching and disease and damage from predators and storms."

Information gleaned through surveys carried out on the Reef will be used in the new integrated Eye on the Reef monitoring program.

Incorporating a range of Reef monitoring programs, it provides marine managers with historical and current data to help them assess the Reef's health status and make management decisions.

In the lead up to summer, the GBRMPA's Coral Bleaching Response Plan was updated to reflect predictions from the Bureau of Meteorology.

The agency has also partnered with Australian Institute of Marine Science to install 50 additional temperature loggers across the Reef to monitor in-water temperatures.

These temperature loggers will enhance the GBRMPA's Early Warning System for reef health, including more accurate estimations of coral bleaching thresholds.

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