Phelps M, Johnston B, O’Connor WA (2009) Economic Viability of Pipi (Donax deltoides) Reseeding. Final Report to Fisheries Research and Development Corporation, Deakin, ACT, Australia. Qld DPI Final Report Series, 31 pp.

Summary

Falling pipi harvests in NSW have led commercial fishers to consider the potential for reseeding local beaches to re-establish pipi supply and look for future growth opportunities. Before such an investment was undertaken, this project sought to establish a sound basis on which a reseeding program could be developed. A preliminary economic assessment was done to demonstrate the feasibility of pipi reseeding and an “economic decision tool” was constructed to assist future reseeding efforts. The key stakeholders were contacted and, where possible, the permits necessary for a pipi reseeding program were obtained. Two key fishery management decisions, central to the model developed, were enacted by the commercial pipi fishers. Finally contact was established with key researchers involved in similar harvest technologies.