Volunteer anglers driving water quality testing in the Manning River
Local recreational fishers have been the driving force behind a new project in the Manning River which will test water quality.
Members from the OzFish Unlimited Manning River Chapter will roll up their sleeves to take part in critical citizen science work to benefit the health of the Manning River and the many species within.
This project was initiated after speaking with local recreational anglers, hearing their concern over water quality, which then led to them asking how they can become involved with water quality sampling.
After speaking with Catchment Officer Sally Stutsel from MidCoast Council, local spots were identified as key priority areas, needing additional water quality data collected.
The first testing day was due to be held on October 26 but it was postponed at the last minute due to rain and unfavourable conditions.
The testing will now be conducted on November 23 from 4-6pm at Browns Creek in Taree which will complement other water sampling being done by the MidCoast Council at Coopernook boat ramp and the Cattai Wetlands.
“It’s exciting because we’ve never done anything like this for the Manning,” Taylah Kirk, OzFish Senior Project Officer – Chapter Capacity, explained.
“The local Chapter members have noticed a massive change in the last few years so they wanted to know exactly what is going on and look to be part of the solution.
“Once we have the data, they would like to see this information go to the people who are going to be making the decisions on the management of the river.”
The following parameters will be tested on the sampling day, with a focus on how these parameters affect fish and aquatic species living within the creek and estuary:
– temperature,
– pH levels ,
– electrical conductivity(salinity),
– turbidity (clarity).
“It’s a way for the community to get involved and learn how to take water samples and how that affect fish and aquatic species in the river,” Ms Kirk added.
“The more data, the better. We are looking to create better habitat and water quality is one key component to improving habitat for the species that recreational fishers like catching in the area.”
The Manning River is a paradise for recreational fishers, whether it be beach, deep-sea, breakwall or river fishing – it has many spots to cast your line.
All of the collected data will be shared with MidCoast Council and uploaded to the national Waterwatch database which will be used to effectively manage our waterways in the future.
All training will be provided on the day and is perfectly suited for recreational anglers, passionate community members and university or TAFE students wishing to learn new skills.
This event is funded by the NSW Recreational Fishing Trusts and supported by MidCoast Council and Into the Wild adventures, with support from BCF – Boating, Camping, Fishing.
There are limited numbers for this one, so get in quick!
Registration is essential. We hope to see you there.
Below is a map of the event location.
This event is funded by the NSW Recreational Fishing Trusts and supported by MidCoast Council, Into the Wild adventures and and BCF – Boating, Camping, Fishing.
