The Operational Guide for the Beach-Cast Marine Plant Fishery (2024–25) provides comprehensive instructions and regulatory requirements for commercial harvesting of beach-cast kelp in Tasmania. Managed by the Department of Natural Resources and Environment Tasmania (NRE Tas), the fishery targets primarily Durvillaea species (bull kelp) that wash ashore naturally. Only beach-cast material may be collected—live harvesting is prohibited except under separate licences (e.g., for Undaria). The guide covers licence types, conditions, access requirements, harvest location endorsements, and mandatory reporting via catch dockets. It outlines specific rules for sensitive areas like King Island and Granville Harbour and includes the “50% rule,” which limits collection to half the available kelp to protect coastal ecosystems. The guide also integrates wildlife protection, land access coordination with Parks and Wildlife, and export compliance under Australia’s environmental legislation.
