QLD to install pump screens to protect Murray-Darling fish populations

The Australian Government is providing $6.6 million to Queensland’s Fish Friendly Water Extraction Project, a program of works that includes installing pump screens at river off-takes to protect native fish populations.

Minister for Resources and Water, Keith Pitt, said the project in Condamine-Balonne and Border Rivers regions would deliver benefits for fish and for communities.

“The program will see funds allocated to installing pump screens at river off-takes, which in turn will protect fish populations in the rivers,” Mr Pitt said.

“This is a win-win-win-win for the Basin as it’s also good for farmers because it reduces maintenance of pumps and increases efficient watering.

“It’s good for communities if local jobs are created in manufacturing or installing pump screens.

“It’s a win for the environment with more healthy fish in our rivers. 

“It’s good for our recreational fishers who can expect a just reward if they throw a line in.

“We don’t need all farmers to install pump screens – but those who do contribute to the positive outcomes for native fish.

“This project is one of ten Northern Basin Toolkit projects that together keep 70GL of water in productive use while improving the health of our rivers and wetlands and the animals and plants that rely on them.

“I accelerated the delivery of this project to ensure the benefits could reach communities more rapidly and to show the environmental benefits we can achieve from relatively low-tech, common sense fish protection measures.”

Queensland Minister for Water, Glenn Butcher, said Queensland was ready to develop the program along with communities.

“Pivotal to the success of this project will be involving the irrigation industry, local government, First Nations, recreational fishers and other relevant community groups,” Mr Butcher said.

“We aim to be starting those conversations in the coming months and to work with communities to translate the benefits written on paper into the real world.”

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