European carp are an introduced species that have detrimental effects on native aquatic plants, animals and on river and lake health through their destructive feeding habits. They reduce the water quality, increase algal blooms, cause erosion, feed on native invertebrates and aquatic plants and compete for resources with native species.
The electro fishing process involves emitting high voltage current into the nearby water, which stuns all fish caught in the electromagnetic field. All stunned fish are removed from the water and kept in holding tanks until the electro-fishing is completed in that area. The fish are not harmed by the electro-fishing and recover quickly. Native fish species are then returned back into the water unharmed and the Carp are humanely euthanized then disposed of.
The lakes to be treated include Victoria Park Lake on Monday 1 December, Mooroopna Recreation Reserve Lake and Lake Bartlett in Tatura on Tuesday 2 December and Kialla Lakes on Wednesday 3 December.
Residents are asked not to fish, enter the water or let dogs swim in the lakes during this time. “Whilst there is little chance of people being affected by the electro fishing it is recommended that they play it safe and keep their pets and children away from the water,” said Greater Shepparton City Council Director Infrastructure Steve Bowmaker.
For more information please contact Katie Wallace or Paul Dainton on 5832 9700.
