The University of Tasmania (UTAS) has been awarded two significant grants by the Federal Government to continue crucial forestry and aquaculture research.

 

The grants will fund the two successful projects, the Experimental Aquaculture Facility (EAF) and a National Institute for Future Forest Industries (NIFFI).

 

The $5 million funding grant will fund future development of the two sectors, which are considered vital for Tasmania.

 

"Tasmania is recognised as a national and international leader in marine research and, as Australia's largest producer of seafood, it is critical we invest to make sure this industry remains strong and viable into the future,"  Parliamentary Secretary for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Sid Sidebottom said.

 

"Similarly, forestry is critical to the ongoing prosperity of the State, as well as having an important role in the country's environmental and economic future, especially in our regional areas.

 

The EAF will be a controlled environment to provide essential research into local and national fisheries industries. The facility will become a regional and national seafood research and innovation hub and will allow a host of organisations to work together, with a special focus on graduate student research opportunities.

 

The facility will allow a greater understanding of issues such as environmental management, food safety, climate change impacts, cleaner technologies and production.

 

The NIFFI will drive research, development, innovation, extension and training for future forest products and industries. Its research activities will range from plantation management systems and productivity through to sustainable forestry, cleaner technologies and new forest economies including carbon and environmental services.