Fishways
Native fish in the Murray-Darling Basin have declined in numbers and distribution as their habitats decline due to drought, introduced fish species and water pollution.
Fishways support migration
Locks, weirs, and barrages stopped the free movement of fish along the River Murray, so we have built fishways into each structure.
The fishways are a series of connected pools in a gently sloping structure that allow native fish to migrate upstream, moving from pool to pool. National fish experts monitor the fishways to assess their effectiveness.
European carp
European carp cause the degradation of river systems due to their feeding habits. The fish regularly uproot native aquatic plants and stir up sediments.
By removing carp from the river, we help protect native fish and aquatic biodiversity.
Managing carp at Lock One
Our carp cage at Blanchetown's Lock One is an effective method of controlling European carp numbers in the River Murray.
Since 2007, the cage has trapped the carp, while allowing native fish to swim beneath it. The cage is emptied at regular intervals and the carp are humanely euthanized, as it is illegal to return them to the river.
How the carp are used
Captured carp are processed by a licensed fisheries company and used to make:
- fish bait
- cat food
- fertiliser
This program helps protect native fish and keep the river healthy.