Habitat Mapping for Eastern Freshwater Cod – NSW

NSW DPI and OzFish Unlimited have joined forces to support the resurgence of naturally recruiting Eastern Freshwater Cod in the Wilsons River.

The Eastern Freshwater Cod (Maccullochella ikei) is an endangered species listed under the threatened species Act in NSW and Commonwealth law (NSW DPI). The species was once prolific through the Clarence catchment and the Richmond River in Northern NSW. However, as a result of habitat degradation, invasive pest species and poor water quality they have become locally extinct in the local region with some stocked populations persisting in local tributaries.

NSW DPI Fisheries are looking to release Eastern Freshwater fingerlings on an annual basis, and with OzFish and their dedicated volunteers, we want to ensure their best chance of survival to re-populate the local region. To do this, we’re seeking passionate volunteers willing to get involved with Fisher Science activities, in this case habitat mapping to scope out the most suitable section of the river to stock fingerlings.

All of the data that will be collected from these activities will assist NSW DPI with suitable fingerling stocking locations. We will be carrying out two habitat mapping methods for this event:

• Identifying location of refugial pools and depth.
• Identify instream habitat, complexity, channel shading and surrounding habitat types (e.g boulders, aquatic plants, etc).

For this event, we’re encouraging those who are willing and relatively fit to bring their kayak along and help out with the in-water activities.

The kayaking route is approximately 10km and we expect it to take approximately 8hrs to complete depending on the flow of the river at the time.

Fruit and snacks, and lunch will be provided for the trip. Please bring your own water bottle with enough water to last the whole 8 hours.

Please note that this activity may be physically demanding, where you will need to carry your kayak through certain sections of the river. We also emphasise that you will need to be a confident swimmer to be able to engage with water activities. When registering, please fill out the correct information that is relevant for you.

It is a requirement that you register your attendance so we can coordinate vehicle pick up dorp off arrangements.

EVENT DETAILS
Thursday 2nd May
Time: 8:00am – 5:00pm (approx..)
Location: Meet at Donaghy’s Bridge – Goonengerry Rd.
Details: Entry Point at Donaghy’s Bridge. OzFish project staff will give event run-down and then drop relevant vehicles off at exit point (Federal, NSW) and head back to Entry Point Donaghy’s Bridge to begin the paddle.

*If you are kayaking, it is a requirement that you wear a life jacket and appropriate water shoes.
* Fruit, snacks, wraps will be provided for the trip. Please bring your own water bottle with enough water to last the whole 8 hours.
*You will be lugging your kayak through shallow areas at times, please bring sturdy water shoes to wear.

To learn more about this incredible species please follow the link: https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0006/448926/Primefact-178-Eastern-cod.pdf 

The image below is a map of the route that will be followed:

There are limited numbers for this one, so get in quick!
Registration is essential. We hope to see you there.

Register now

This event is funded by the NSW Recreational Fishing Trusts and supported by NSW DPI Fisheries and BCF – Boating, Camping, Fishing.