DPI murray crayfish operation nets big catch

[nsw_fisheries]

http://www.fisheries.nsw.gov.au/gen/news/fb_04jul05_dpi.htm

"This document has been posted for information and to encourage discussion among yourselves. For more information from DPI on the issue, please visit our web site on www.fisheries.nsw.gov.au"

[stark]

Seems to be an interesting problem. With so many farmers and land holders stocking their dams and ponds-would think that trying to remove the last of the Murry crays would be too much trouble and effort.

Story follows:


DPI murray crayfish operation nets big catch

July 5, 2004
Illegal fishing for Murray crayfish was the target for a NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) operation that netted a number of offenders, including 21 issued with on-the-spot fines ranging from $100 to $500, the DPI’s Principal Manager, Regional Services, Glenn Tritton, said today.

“Five teams of Fisheries officers inspected a total of 696 fishers between June 11 and June 15 in the Murray, Swampy Plains, Murrumbidgee, Edward and Wakool Rivers, Columbo and Yanco Creeks, and Lakes Mulwala and Khancoban, “ said Mr Tritton.

“Most of the offences fell into three categories: not having or failing to produce a recreational fishing licence, having illegal or unmarked gear and taking undersized crayfish or females with eggs attached. A total of 31 illegally taken crayfish were found during the operation.

“Despite the fact that we issued a total of 60 infringement notices and warnings, the overall compliance rate was around 93%, slightly up on last year, which was a good result.

Mr Tritton said Murray crayfish are found mainly in the Murray, Murrumbidgee and Edward rivers and needs to be protected from over-fishing because of its slow growth rate.

“Fisheries officers regularly conduct patrols to check anglers comply with fishing rules, which aim to ensure Murray crayfish are harvested sustainably,” said Mr Tritton.

“Fishers should be aware that bag and size limits and rules governing protected species and gear restrictions apply throughout NSW waters.”

Rules for the species include:

A bag limit of five applies to Murray crayfish. They must be at least 9cm in length, but only one greater than 12cm may be kept.

Murray crayfish can only be taken during the months of May, June, July and August.

A ban applies on taking Murray crayfish in designated trout waters.

Any female crayfish taken that are carrying eggs must be returned to the water immediately. It is illegal to remove eggs from crayfish.

Removing claws and tails in, on or adjacent to water is also banned.

Media inquiries: Nick Bleszynski (02) 8437 4915 or 0419 185 375.