The Department of Conservation (DOC) is asking for the public's help in understanding a concerning issue: mass fish deaths in Whanganui. Reports have come in about dead fish, including eels, in the Whanganui River area. These incidents aren't new; similar events have happened in past summers, especially in the upper Whanganui River.
DOC wants people to report any sick or dead fish to the Ministry for Primary Industries. They emphasise teamwork in figuring out what's happening, especially since the long-fin eels in the area are at risk. Mike Taylor from Biosecurity New Zealand asks people to provide detailed reports, including photos and information about the fish and where they were found.
Ben Potaka, chairperson of Te Mana o Ngā Tuna, shares concerns about the yearly deaths of eels in Whanganui. He stresses the importance of everyone working together to find out why this is happening. DOC also advises against eating dead fish until they know what's causing the deaths. Your help woul make a big difference in protecting Whanganui's fish and rivers
