Fishes on Cotton Farms spawned from discussions during the 2008 Native Fish Awareness week, an initiative of the Murray- Darling Basin Authority’s Native Fish Strategy. Industry and Government representatives recognised the importance of engaging the wider community in natural resource management. Our native fish species were seen as the perfect lure to achieve this goal, with the additional aim of bringing more fish back to our waterways. The project has been a collaborative effort between government, community groups and landholders. Funding for the guide was provided by the Murray-Darling Basin Authority, Cotton Catchment Communities Cooperative Research Centre, Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Namoi Catchment Management Authority, and Industry and Investment NSW (I&I NSW).
The I&I NSW Conservation Action Unit managed the project including research, engagement and report preparation. Valuable assistance was also provided by representatives from local industry, community groups, and government bodies. People involved in developing ideas and preparing information were: Charlotte Jenkins, Anthony Townsend, Liz Baker, Guy Roth, Jane MacFarlane, James Faris, Paul Hawkins, Ben Stephens, John Clements, Tony Williams, Cameron Staines and Richard Ping-Kee. Milly Hobson (I&I NSW) provided many of the images. Species text was adapted from Lintermans (2007), NSW DPI (2007), Allen et al (2002) and McDowall (1996). Kristy Fielder provided the design flair for the guide book, and her patience and professionalism during this process was greatly appreciated.
The information contained in this publication is based on knowledge and understanding at the time of writing (September, 2009). However, because of advances in knowledge, users are reminded of the need to ensure that information upon which they rely is up to date and to check currency of the information with the appropriate officer of Industry and Investment NSW or the user’s independent advisor.
