For wetland managers

In regulated wetlands, as a minimum a carp exclusion screen should be installed on the regulator during each filling phase to prevent entry of adult carp. Installation of a carp separation cage may be even more beneficial (as it captures carp for removal while allowing passage of native fish), however this may not always be feasible as these cages have significant capital as well as ongoing maintenance costs.

Regulated wetlands should be allowed to dry completely at least every 3rd year to destroy any carp that may have entered as juveniles prior to spawning.

NSW Department of Primary Industries does not advise installation of carp exclusion screens in unregulated wetlands as they will have no positive effects on carp control and may possibly have a negative impact on native species.

Management of filling/drying cycles and use of exclusion screens may be complemented with other methods of carp control, such as commercial harvesting.

The South Australian Research and Development Institute has produced a guide on options for carp control at wetland inlets (www.pestsmart.org.au) which wetland managers may wish to refer to.