“We are extremely proud to be the recipient of the 2021 Tasmanian Australian Government Partnership for Landcare award. Thank you Landcare Tasmania for recognising the DEP partnership which for 20+ years has been sharing science to improve the health of the Derwent estuary. Congratulations also to all the groups and individuals in the Landcare community who received awards and have made a significant contribution to the environment, sustainable farming practices and natural resource management.” Ursula Taylor, CEO of the Derwent Estuary Program.

The Derwent Estuary Program (DEP) is a regional, not-for-profit partnership between the Tasmanian Government, local governments, industry, scientists and the community to share science to improve the health of the estuary. The DEP was established in 1999 and has been nationally recognised for excellence in reducing water pollution, conserving habitats and species, monitoring river health and promoting greater use and enjoyment of the foreshore.  The DEP currently manages monitoring activities, projects and communications in cooperation with several partners.  They also work with community groups on projects to restore saltmarsh, Coastcare groups to improve habitat for little penguins and provide science that informs reserve activity for parts of the estuary.