Native fish can stretch their fins again on Richmond River

Collaboration between WaterNSW and NSW DPI - Fisheries last month saw the removal of Cookes Weir, a high priority fish passage barrier on the Richmond River.

The removal of Cookes Weir will see an improvement to fish passage, providing access to over 250 km of key upstream aquatic habitat, while also improving river safety and enhancing the river’s recreational potential for river users.

Cookes Weir, an unregulated structure on the Richmond River near Casino, was vested to WaterNSW in 2007. Works to remove the weir were managed by WaterNSW following consultation with local water users and stakeholders.

Removing Cookes Weir improves safety for river users. In its old position near the water surface, there was the risk of local boats hitting the weir due to its limited visibility.

The removal of the weir also delivers a key action under the NSW Marine Estate Management Strategy (2018-2028) to improve fish passage in coastal catchments.

The removal of Cookes Weir was partially funded through the Marine Estate Management Strategy.

For more information, check out the Reconnecting fish habitats project page.

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