The Carp Scientific Advisory Group (SAG) provides scientific and technical advice on the Carp Biological Control Program. The Carp SAG helps develop research activities, identify specialist researchers, and consider research results.
The Carp SAG is made up of representatives from all affected states and territories. Membership also includes an eminent international expert, an industry representative and representation from other relevant peak organisations, such as the CSIRO, the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation (FRDC) and the Murray-Darling Basin Authority (MDBA). Collectively, SAG members have expertise in:
- aquatic ecology
- fish virology and epidemiology
- water management
- social science
- human health.
Meetings of the SAG
The Carp SAG meets approximately four times a year. Updates will be published here after each meeting.
The Carp Scientific Advisory Group (SAG) met online on 23 September 2024.
The contracted research scientist presented a draft report to the SAG. SAG members discussed the report.
Once finalised, the report will inform an approach to market.
The Carp Scientific Advisory Group (SAG) met online on 7 August 2024.
A representative from CSIRO presented to the SAG. The presentation included an overview of:
- the ecological and epidemiological modelling developed under the National Carp Control Plan (NCCP).
- relevant publications released since 2017 and how these may help address gaps identified in the NCCP.
The Carp Scientific Advisory Group (SAG) met in person on 3 July 2024.
The SAG heard from:
- the contracted research scientist; and
- representatives from Commonwealth regulatory agencies.
The meeting focused on ensuring each priority research action is:
- scientifically robust; and
- aligns with the need of the regulatory and decision-making processes.
The Carp Scientific Advisory Group (SAG) met online on 21 May 2024.
Updates on the Carp Biological Program included:
- Appointment of a Chair to lead the SAG
- Appointment of a specialist to provide scientific context and justification for the priority research action
- On 2 May, DAFF held a webinar on the next phase of Carp Biocontrol.
The SAG noted that the Victorian Fisheries Authority are proposing a controlled field trial using the carp virus. A working group will plan the field trial.
The contracted research scientist presented to the SAG on the priority research actions.
The Carp Scientific Advisory Group (SAG) met online on 12 December 2023.
This was the first meeting of the SAG since the publication of the National Carp Control Plan (NCCP). The Chief Environmental Biosecurity Officer, Dr Bertie Hennecke, led the meeting. Dr Hennecke highlighted that since publication of the NCCP:
- The Environmental Invasives Committee’s Carp Task Group reviewed the NCCP. The group recommended continuing feasibility studies on the Carp Biological Program. They identified seven priority research actions. They suggested addressing these before deciding whether to release the virus.
- In October 2023, the Agriculture Ministers agreed to the extra program of research. This work builds on the high-quality body of research and will fill specific gaps identified in the NCCP.
Reformation of the SAG aims to provide scientific advice on the research program.
The Environmental Biosecurity Office is seeking a professional research scientist to develop the priority research actions into a program of work.
Contact
Carp Scientific Advisory Group Secretariat
Email: carp@aff.gov.au