NSW Department of Primary Industries (NSWDPI) Fisheries has been notified by Bourke Shire Council of a small fish kill in a weir pool upstream of Bourke on the Darling River.
Hundreds of bony bream have been observed dead in the pool and other bony bream are showing signs of stress. No other species were observed.
The area recently experienced up to 40 mm of rain in parts, as well as a 10 degree drop in maximum temperatures between Sunday and Monday, which may have contributed to the fish death event. Bony Bream in particular are susceptible to rapid drops in temperature.
Bourke Shire Council is liaising with NSWDPI Fisheries and the EPA on the clean up of the dead fish, which are located near a boat ramp.
NSWDPI Fisheries is continuing to monitor the situation with Council’s assistance.
There are many and varied causes of fish deaths, and a large proportion are due to natural events.
Community members are encouraged to report fish deaths to the Fishers Watch hotline on 1800 043 536.
