Alexandrina Council has issued a plea on social media for people not to leave dead carp in public places and has warned that doing so may incur a fine. 

It has published a photo taken late in 2023 showing dead fish littering a Goolwa jetty.

“Alexandrina is a great place to fish, but anglers need to dispose of their catch responsibly. 

“Primary Industries and Regions SA (PIRSA) do not permit carp to be thrown back into the water. 

“The Department recommends that the pest species is killed humanely and disposed of responsibly away from the water. 

“That doesn't mean dumping them on the jetty or the riverbank. 

“Water birds won't remove the carcasses and leaving them behind is an illegal dumping offence under the Local Nuisance and Litter Control Act. 

“Those responsible may be liable for a fine.”

The council says dead carp can be used as fertiliser or can be put in green waste bins, which are collected weekly during the summer holidays.

Social media users have suggested the council or PIRSA provide bins for disposal at jetties and places frequented by fishers.

For more information about rules and penalties visit the PIRSA website.