THE iSimangaliso Wetland Park, situated in Northern KwaZulu-Natal, has released its Integrated Management Plan (IMP) for public comment.

The IMP has been developed to assist in the management of the World Heritage site and will form the framework for decision making over the next five years. The management plan, which has been drafted in terms of the World Heritage Convention Act of 1999 and National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act of 2003, sets out to integrate conservation, tourism development, and the local economic development of historically disadvantaged communities in and adjacent to the iSimangaliso Wetland Park. Objectives include spatial planning measures and the intended proclamation of the coast off iSimangaliso as a marine protected area. The IMP is available for review and comment until February 18. Towards the end of January, open days will be held to provide an opportunity for the public to discuss the content of the IMP. For further information, contact the Public Participation Office on 035 340 2715 or email IMP@acerafrica.co.za.