November 05, 2013 - AUSTRALIA - The flood gates have once again opened on the topic of fish kills in the regions waterways after hundreds of dead fish were removed from Moneys Creek at Bargara.
Bundaberg Regional Council crews arrived at Moneys Creek early yesterday morning as part of a scheduled opening of the lagoon, which occurs once a month.
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FISH KILL: A large portion of dead fish have been found in the Bargara area near Moneys Creek. Photo: Zach Hogg / NewsMail Zach Hogg
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Division 5 representative Greg Barnes said while on site, crews worked quickly to clear away between 500 and 600 dead fish from the backwater.
"Humid weather conditions over the weekend, combined with a lack of rain and subsequent low oxygen levels in the water are believed to be the cause of death," he said.
"Council is concerned that freshwater from upstream Moneys Creek isn't reaching the backwater with a small dam pumping the water to a nearby private property.
"Crews will inspect the site again tomorrow morning (today) and council will continue to monitor the situation moving forward and has sought the advice of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)."
Cr Barnes said the council had previously organised an unscheduled opening of the lagoon between October 16 and 18 after being alerted to the low water levels by nearby residents.
"This gave the lagoon a reasonable flush and re-oxygenated the water," he said.
"I received another request for an unscheduled lagoon opening on October 29, however, due to the high cost associated with opening and closing the lagoon, approximately $4000 each time, and its popularity as a recreational spot for swimmers on weekends, council decided to leave it until the next scheduled opening, which was this morning (yesterday)."
The gates will remain open until Thursday morning with the next opening scheduled for Monday, December 2. -
News Mail.