River health monitored

Lachlan Shire Council, in conjunction with the Department of Primary Industries, continues to monitor the ongoing health of our local river systems.

Due to the current weather conditions the risk of algal bloom and other threats to aquatic life may be heightened. Increased water temperatures, reduced river flow and other environmental factors can lead to a reduction in oxygen levels in our creek and river systems, placing stress on aquatic ecosystems.

Current oxygen levels in our local river system are at satisfactory levels but Council is encouraging the community to report any struggling or dying fish they may encounter. This can be done through the Fishers Watch phone line (1800 043 536).

Continuous dissolved oxygen sensors located in the Murray and Murrumbidgee catchments show oxygen levels at most sites are remaining above desirable ecological thresholds with minimal risk posed to aquatic life.

Lachlan Valley sensors show dissolved oxygen levels at Forbes, Condobolin and Wilandra Weir pose no current risk to fish life. Levels in the Lachlan River at Lake Cargelligo Weir and Hillston are dropping below 4 mg/L  at night time but increase above 4 mg/L during the day which can impact on fish health, but not result in deaths.

More information is available at https://realtimedata.waternsw.com.au/water.stm

Definitions of algal alerts are available at www.waternsw.com.au/water-quality/algae

Further information on fish wellbeing in NSW and the State Government’s response can be found at the following links:

https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fishing/habitat/threats/nsw-native-fish-drought-response-2019-2020

https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fishing/habitat/threats/fish-kills

https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fishing/habitat/threats/fish-kills/bushfire-impacts-on-native-fish

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