Northern Tasmania is one of the most unique places in the world, bounded by some of Tasmania’s most outstanding and picturesque landscapes from Bass Strait along the craggy peaks of the Western Tiers, to the stunning beaches of the Bay of Fires and unspoiled Furneaux Islands. NRM North has been working with landholders, government and industry for over 20 years to ensure the sound management of the region’s natural resources. We strive for continuous improvement by respecting traditional learnings and new ideas with a science-based approach to meet evolving challenges and new opportunities.
Globally Significant sites: Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, Midlands biodiversity hotspot, Furneaux islands, 5 Ramsar wetlands, North-east corner of Tasmania.
Important flora and fauna: 532 Listed plant and animal species
Economy: 46% of Tasmania’s total farmland and 79% of Tasmania’s wine production.
Native forests: Approx 46% of the region
About 60 per cent of the NRM North region are biodiversity-rich landscapes that support native species, communities and ecosystems. They are highly valued for the way they characterise Tasmania and support the tourism industry and economy. However, the landscape is under pressure from habitat loss, development pressures, weeds, pests and diseases, climate change, and natural disasters. NRM North works with public and private land managers to buffer the impact of these threats and pressures on our biodiversity and priority threatened species through on-ground actions and planning.
The NRM North region is one of the most important agricultural sectors in the northern regional economy, contributing 43 per cent of the $3.52 billion gross value of Tasmania’s agriculture. NRM North champions the importance of healthy soils through productive landscapes, and highlights the importance of resilient landscapes in the face of climate uncertainty. In the ever-evolving space of primary industries, technology and science meet expert advice delivered through workshops, field days, resources, trials and pilot programs to ensure improved outcomes.
Water forms the backbone of Northern Tasmania’s environment and community. From the vast Kanamaluka / Tamar catchment, the largest catchment system in Tasmania, to the critical estuaries, wetlands, and coastal systems – our water assets are indispensable. NRM North is dedicated to safeguarding and managing these assets by collaborating with local communities, industries, and government partners, and mitigating the impact of pollutants and other pressures. Our integrated approach not only addresses current issues, but prepares us for new and emerging water management priorities.
NRM North prioritises integrating Aboriginal culture and knowledge across all our programs. Our Aboriginal Participation Plan is regularly reviewed to reflect priorities for participation and collaboration with Tasmanian Aboriginal organisations that care for their land and sea Country in our region. To enhance cultural awareness, we aim to employ more First Nation people and create greater opportunities for Tasmanian Aboriginal-owned businesses and service providers to participate economically in our projects.
The NRM North region encompasses the local government areas of Break O’Day, City of Launceston, Dorset, Flinders Island, George Town, Meander, Northern Midlands and West Tamar. Working closely with local government authorities and industry stakeholders is central to the success of many NRM North led projects, including the Tamar Estuary and Esk Rivers (TEER) Program, and Circular North – a regional initiative working towards a circular improved waste and resource recovery.
Communities, stakeholders and partners recognise the value of NRM North and are highly engaged with our programs and services. Learn more about our projects, staff and vision for the future.
NRM North’s contributions to our national NRM snapshots
