The Bureau of Meteorology is forecasting the current hot conditions in far Western NSW to continue through Tuesday followed by the potential for a significant cool change. DPI Fisheries is on high alert and is continuing to monitor conditions.

Management options have been discussed with local stakeholders, including Central Darling Shire Council and community members.

Recent fish deaths within the Lower Darling have been attributed to extended hot and dry conditions followed by rapid cooling events associated with cold fronts.

This contributed to mixing of poor quality deep water with better quality surface water which ultimately reduced the availability of oxygen in the water for fish to breathe.

In addition to installing several aerators near Menindee, DPI has also provided assistance to local communities in deploying additional aerators in priority refuge pools in the region which have provided some relief for native fish.

However, these aerators are unlikely to be able to prevent further fish wide-spread deaths given the broad impact local climatic conditions can have on water quality.

Without significant rainfall to generate replenishment flows, the current low flows and warm temperatures are likely to pose an ongoing threat to native fish while the hot weather continues.

It is estimate that over one million fish have come to grief during the multiple fish kill events that have occurred in December and January in the Meninidee region, with other fish kills occurring across the state in Lake Keepit, Lake Burrendong and also the Namoi River.

Send your fishing news or photos through to matt@matthansenrealestate.com.au