Invasive Fish Removal - Galup and Perry Lakes

Introduced (pest/invasive/feral) freshwater fish such as koi, carp and goldfish species are known to have detrimental impacts on aquatic ecosystems.

There can be major benefits to wetland health by removing these feral species, including:

• Improved water clarity, turbidity and quality
• Increased bank stability
• Improved aquatic water plant growth
• Improved habitat and availability of food for native fish species and other water dwelling animals

The contractor will enter each lake with a specialized electrofishing boat. They will target areas of optimum habitat for the feral fish and shock the fish momentarily, allowing them time to scoop them out of the lake. 

All fish will be identified; feral species will be euthanized humanely and native fish will be returned to the water upon capture. 

Contractors have safety procedures and protocols in place for the use of this specialized electrofishing equipment and signage will be in place while the work is being carried out.

Contractors will acquire the necessary permits and licenses by the relevant state departments prior to commencement. 

When used correctly, electrofishing is a useful non-lethal, versatile and efficient tool, most effective in shallow waters.

It is an effective method of removing feral fish in lakes, however it is not always possible to capture every single fish, so total eradication may not be possible. It is likely that follow up events will be required on an ongoing basis, particularly in Galup where feral fish have been present for a long time. 

You can help by:

1. Not releasing fish into lakes,
2. Educating others not to release fish into lakes
3. Adhere to the instructions on the signage while the Electrofishing works are being carried out.
4. Join your local lake Friends Group – See contact details under Volunteering Opportunities on our website, by clicking this link