You would be aware of the recent reports of fish kills and dolphin deaths in SA waters. The reports of fish deaths have extended across both gulfs since the start of March. While the suspected cause of the fish deaths is increased warm temperatures due to the recent, prolonged hot weather in South Australia together with reduced oxygen levels in water caused by algal blooms, the cause of the dolphin deaths is still being investigated.
On Wednesday, Minister Gail Gago released a statement announcing the appointment of a specialist cross agency team of senior officers from DEWNR, PIRSA, EPA and SA Water which will review all of the available information to see whether there is an adequate explanation. The team is led by myself. At this point in time, the available evidence is indicating that the likely explanation for the fish kill is an algal bloom linked to warm gulf waters and nutrient upwelling. This is supported by the preliminary investigations and analysis of water quality and fish mortality.
The EPA has ruled out any link with the desalination plant – the water quality parameters are well within prescribed limits. The fish kills under investigation extend across both gulfs (as far as Dutton Bay, north of Coffin Bay, and Port Neill also on Eyre Peninsula) and the South East.
To ensure that interested stakeholders are kept fully informed on this issue, we have established an email network where we will keep people informed of the progress of our investigations. We have also established a website at www.pir.sa.gov.au/fishmortalities where we will be posting updates and information, including FAQs, media releases and backgrounding about this matter. Progress reports will be published as we proceed.
Any fish or other marine life mortalities can be reported by phoning FISHWATCH on 1800 065 522.
Please feel free to send this email on to interested colleagues.
Scott Ashby,
Chief Executive
Primary Industries and Regions SA