The Argus reported last Tuesday (January 15) that the severe drought, stagnant water and devastating bushfire had combined to cause the death of thousands of fish since late November last year, but that number is feared to have grown drastically since the recent heavy rainfall.

The DPI have linked the fish kill to the rainfall washing ash into the Macleay River and decreasing the water quality.

"Rainfall events are adding ash from the extensive bushfires throughout the region into local catchments, as well as other organic matter and sediment. This can cause rapid drops to oxygen levels in the water," a DPI spokesperson said.

"The number of fish impacted is estimated to be in the hundreds of thousands.

"The suspected cause of the incident is poor water quality leading to low dissolved oxygen."

Fisheries staff have conducted numerous field assessments and the main species affected have been Australian Bass, Freshwater Mullet and Eel-tailed Catfish.

DPI Fisheries staff have been on high alert for these circumstances since the commencement of the bushfire season, and continue to actively monitor the situation.

The NSW Government's $10 million commitment to support native fish during the current drought and bushfire season will be critical in assisting the recovery of populations when conditions improve.

Community members are encouraged to report any fish deaths or observations through the Fishers Watch phoneline on 1800 043 536.

The Argus asked if the fish kill had further impact on the Macleay River's ecosystem.

NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) Fisheries continues to monitor a fish kill event on the Macleay River.

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