Meroo Lake, in the wake of an illegal opening of a local waterway, is being used as an example of a natural and healthy ICOLL [(intermittently closed and open lagoons and lakes].
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The NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) along with Shoalhaven City Council Rangers have investigated the alleged illegal opening of Swan Lake near Sussex Inlet on January 12 2022.
Meroo Lake entrance re-opened recently due to the wet weather and not due to human interference
The outcome of the Swan Lake investigation required no further action.
However, the DPI does not want any more lakes opened illegally.
"The artificial opening of ICOLLs can result in a rapid lowering of the water level and the exposure of extensive areas of sediment and aquatic vegetation such as seagrass and algae," a DPI spokesperson said.
" Exposure of sediments to the air and the death of aquatic vegetation can lead to the deoxygenation of the water column, which may result in fish deaths."
DPI works with local government within the Coastal Management Program to develop Entrance Management Plans (EMPs) designed to protect infrastructure and residents from flooding, while still protecting the unique environmental values of these systems.
More information on ICOLL's can be found on DPI's website.