Revealed: What caused a large fish kill in Yamba lake?

Fisheries officers, EPA and council investigate incident as fish turn up dead in waterway

Dead fish found in Kolora Lake in Yamba have been investigated by council and fisheries. Photos: Debbie Rowe

The cause of a recent fish kill in a lake in Yamba has been revealed by the NSW Department of Primary Industries.

Residents were concerned to see a large number of fish wash up near Kolora Lake in Yamba, and took to social media to express their concerns.

A spokeswoman for NSW Department of Primary Industries said that they were aware of the reported fish death event and officers had investigated.

“It is likely that the fish death event was caused by low dissolved oxygen levels and the inability of affected fish to escape from the waterbody,” she said

“The EPA and Clarence Valley Council are also aware of this event.”

Dead fish found in Kolora Lake in Yamba have been investigated by council and fisheries. Photos: Debbie Rowe

The spokeswoman said fish deaths are not unusual following flooding and significant weather events, which could affect water quality and have localised impacts on native fish species.

DPI Fisheries staff will continue to monitor the situation with local stakeholders and other Government agencies.

Community members are encouraged to report any fish deaths or observations through the Fishers Watch Phoneline on 1800 043 536.

For more information on fish deaths, visit https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/fishing/habitat/threats/fish-kills