The report was made to DPIRD’s Fishwatch hotline.
Following the notification, DWER and DPIRD officers attended the scene to survey the site and take water and fish samples for analysis.
The survey found 42 dead adult barramundi along approximately three kilometres of the creek.
A single crocodile was also found. Its death is not believed to be linked to this event, however, at this stage it is unclear how it died.
The results from the fish and water samples are still being analysed.
Initial evidence suggests that the fish deaths were possibly due to a low oxygen event triggered by recent rainfall.
This is expected to have stirred-up anoxic sediments and waters in the pool.
The system was already under stress as a result of extremely low seasonal rainfall which contributes to the water level and, therefore, water quality.
The water sampling results, once available, will enable the department to assess whether water use in the area contributed to the adverse conditions and, if so, how it can be managed accordingly.
Members of the public are asked to report any fish deaths or fish strandings by ringing the DPIRD Fishwatch 24 hour hotline number on 1800 815 507. DWER investigates fish kills that occur in freshwater.
Contact with dead fish should be avoided and the Department of Health advises against eating or handling fish found in these circumstances.
Attribute to: Spokesperson
Department of Water and Environmental Regulation
