Making temporary river crossings fish friendly

With the recent flooding across NSW damaging bridges and level crossings across the state, the need for councils to install temporary river crossings has never been greater.

Temporary crossings are often required after flood damage to keep access open, and traffic moving whilst a permanent bridge or level crossing is being built or repaired.

DPI Fisheries has just released a new video to guide councils on the best ways to design and construct temporary river crossings as part of the Fish Friendly Council video series.

Generally, temporary crossings are installed for less than 6 to 12 months, which can still be long enough to cause permanent damage to fish and fish habitats.

The best option is to detour traffic to an existing nearby crossing point; however, if this is not available, a temporary crossing will be needed.

Installation of a temporary crossing generally requires approval under the Fisheries Management Act 1994.

The approval process for temporary crossings such as bridges, level crossings and culverts ensures DPI Fisheries officers can assess proposed designs, construction techniques with the aim of minimising the potential damage to key fish habitats before construction starts.

Check out the video below or on our MEMS YouTube playlist that outlines best practice tips for installing temporary crossings.

This is the sixth video in the Fish Friendly Council video series and part of the Fish Friendly Council project delivered by DPI Fisheries and funded under the Marine Estate Management Strategy.

Developed when COVID prevented face-to-face workshops, they aim to be a helpful resource for councils hoping to upskill staff in fish friendly approaches to construction near waterways.

Learn more about our Fish Friendly Councils project at their project page.