Habitat Mapping for Eastern Freshwater Cod – NSW

NSW DPI and OzFish Unlimited have joined forces to support the resurgence of Eastern Freshwater Cod in the Richmond 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 Richmond River, with some stocked populations persisting in local tributaries.

NSW DPI Fisheries are looking to release 4000 Eastern Freshwater fingerlings in late 2023; OzFish and their dedicated volunteers want to ensure their best chance of survival to re-populate the local Richmond region. As a result, we’re seeking a handful of passionate Richmond chapter members who would be 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.

Habitat Mapping is the first step when trying to identify suitable existing habitat and areas that require restoration efforts. Eastern Freshwater Cod require deep pools of water and woody snags/structure along the bank as a place to seek shelter, which provide food and nesting sites. The deep pools act as a refuge for fish and aquatic species to live in times when the river level drops or ceases to flow.

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

• • Identifying where the deep refuge pools are.
  • Identify instream woody habitat that act as structure for Eastern Freshwater Cod along the bank.

For this event, we’re encouraging those who are willing and relatively fit to bring their kayak along and help out with habitat mapping along the Wilsons River. You will need to bring appropriate footwear that can get wet such as neoprene booties or river shoes. If you would like to get involved and prefer not to kayak, we can arrange alternatives such as driving cars to pick up kayakers at the end of the paddle.

We have two habitat mapping sites to get involved with, please choose which one you’d like to attend when registering or pick both! Bring along a rod and try your luck for a bass at the end of our paddle.

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. Habitat Mapping data sheets will be emailed to you after registering so you can familiarise yourself before the event.

Site 1 – approx. 3km (estimated time 2.5hr)
25th November, Federal NSW

Schedule

9:00am – Meet at landholders’ property in Federal, NSW.

9:30am – Event overview and delegate specific roles to attendees

10:00am – Questions from attendees

10:15am – Habitat Mapping begins

1:30pm – Habitat Mapping finishes at keys bridge. Cars will pick up kayakers.

Site 2 – approx. 4km (estimated time 3.5hr)
26th November, Wilsons Creek NSW

Schedule

10:00am – Meet at site (exact location will be sent to you via SMS in the days leading up to the event – look for the OzFish flag)

10:20am – Activity overview and delegate specific roles to attendees  

10:30am – Questions from attendees

11:00am – Habitat Mapping begins

2:30pm – Habitat Mapping finishes at Donaghy’s Bridge. Cars will pick up kayakers.

*Sandwiches, wraps and snacks will be provided at the beginning of the event.

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.