The sad health of the Richmond River was highlighted by a series of fish kills following Tropical Cyclone Alfred.
The fish kills were first reported in the Richmond River and then in the Clarence and Macleay Rivers. This has led to calls to rehabilitate wetlands, use sustainable farming practices, facilitate cultural leadership, and a community forum at Ballina RSL on April 3.
‘The community info session went really well. There was a strong turnout and clear passion in the room for improving the health of the Richmond River,’ Ray Klerck, from OzFish and Richmond River Chapter President, told The Echo.
‘Locals are understandably concerned about the recent fish kills, and we’re committed to turning that concern into meaningful action.’
OzFish are encouraging people to join the OzFish Richmond River Chapter as members who receive emails and as followers across their social media.
They are currently looking at a range of actions including the preparation of a petition.
The need to rehabilitate and expand the wetlands around local rivers, such as the Tuckean Nature Reserve, to a more natural hydrological regime are key actions that are being promoted.
Purchasing or leasing key farmland around wetlands that could be transitioned into fish-friendly habitat is another potential action.
‘Land that’s no longer viable for traditional farming could be transitioned into fish-friendly habitat; this could be critical for improving water quality and restoring the fishery,’ said Mr Klerck.
‘We’re exploring ways for philanthropic individuals or organisations to support these efforts. Anyone interested can contact OzFish directly for more information about how to do this.
‘The message here is simple: we can pay farmers for outcomes that support fish and cleaner water and, in doing so, create long-term benefits for the entire community.
‘Meanwhile, OzFish will continue tackling the Richmond River’s water quality issues from all sides, through riparian planting, floodplain resilience, oyster reef restoration, pesticide management, and more. We’re working closely with the Ballina Fishermen’s Co-op and every other stakeholder to rebuild a sustainable, thriving fishery that feeds our local population, supports tourism, and brings life back to our river.’
For more information go to ozfish.org.au.
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