Authorities are investigating a mass fish kill incident at Lake Cargelligo in central west New South Wales, with hundreds of dead fish found floating along the shoreline.
The NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) confirmed it is working with the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) to determine the cause of the event.
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The NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) said in a statement it was “aware of a fish kill event in Lake Cargelligo which has affected a large number of bony herring”.
It said it would take the matter “extremely seriously” and launched an investigation into the cause.
Early reports suggest poor water quality and low oxygen levels may be to blame, following recent cold weather and rainfall.
Locals say dead fish, including native species such as Murray cod and golden perch, were discovered over the weekend.
The DPI said water samples had been collected and testing was underway.
“Environmental factors such as sudden temperature changes, organic matter build-up and algal activity can lead to rapid drops in dissolved oxygen, which can be fatal to fish,” the department said.
Lake Cargelligo is a popular recreational spot for fishing and water sports, and also serves as an important water storage area for local agriculture.
The EPA has urged the public to avoid handling dead fish and report any further sightings via the FishWatch hotline.
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