Being able to move freely upstream and downstream is critical to the survival of native fish. Different species of fish move at different times to find food and shelter, to avoid predators and to reach breeding sites. Unfortunately, thousands of structures, including dams, regulators, weirs and road crossings, have been constructed throughout Australian river systems. These structures impede fish passage and reduce water quality, change natural flows and accumulate sediment in upstream pools. These structures may also be unsafe and unreliable for residents especially when rivers rise. There is a range of options available for Councils who want to address these structures and restore fish passage.
Council can ...
The crossing at Coral Avenue before works to improve fish passage. Image I&I NSW
The crossing at Coral Avenue after the works were completed. Image I&I NSW
Over 25 km of habitat in the Brunswick River, on the North Coast NSW, was opened for fish passage following the remediation of this piped causeway with a bridge structure by Byron Shire Council. Funding assistance was provided by Byron Shire Council, the Recreational Fishing Trusts, Cape Byron Marine Park Authority and I&I NSW. More about Coral Avenue or other examples from catchment areas across the State.