A Word from the SAF (November 2024)
Greetings, Landcare enthusiasts!
This month, I want to shed light on a pressing issue affecting our beloved Murrumbidgee River: the European Carp. These invasive fish wreak havoc on our aquatic ecosystems.
The carp’s impact
Carp are voracious bottom feeders, churning up sediment and reducing water clarity. This behavior has detrimental effects on native fish populations, as it disrupts their feeding habits and destroys their breeding grounds. Carp compete with native species like the Murray Cod, Golden Perch (Yellow Belly) and Silver Perch for food and resources, threatening their survival.
The increased turbidity caused by carp also hinders the growth of aquatic plants, vital for oxygen production and habitat creation. This in turn affects the entire food chain, impacting birds, reptiles, and other wildlife dependent on a healthy river system.
What can you do?
The good news is that we can all play a part in combating this invasive species. Here are a few ways you can help:
- Educate yourself: Learn about carp, their impacts, and control methods.
- Participate in control programs: Join local carp removal initiatives or volunteer for river restoration projects.
- Practice responsible fishing: Avoid using carp as bait and dispose of any caught carp appropriately.
- Spread the word: Raise awareness among your friends, family, and community about the carp problem.
Remember, every action, no matter how small, can contribute to the fight against carp and the restoration of our precious Murrumbidgee River. Together, we can make a difference!
For more information on carp and how to get involved, please visit the NSW Department of Primary Industries website.
Let’s work together to protect our waterways for future generations.
This article was written by Jade Auldist. Jade is the Sustainable Agriculture Facilitator for the Riverina region. Her role supports farmers, industry and community groups (including Landcare Groups) to adopt new and innovative sustainable agriculture practices.
For further information on this article, please contact Jade at jade.auldist@lls.nsw.gov.au.
