Kimberley group warns sawfish would be affected by water extraction proposals for the Fitzroy Valley

A Kimberley-based conservation group has released research revealing growth and survival of endangered sawfish are affected by low water levels in the Fitzroy River. The Kimberley — Like Nowhere Else group has warned water extraction could further harm sawfish populations. The warning comes as the group ramps up its campaign to protect the river against proposals to turbocharge agricultural production in the Fitzroy Valley using surface water from the river. The study, from the Murdoch University’s Harry Butler Institute, found sawfish lose about 10 per cent of their body mass each year during the long dry season because they are unable to catch enough prey. The research warns changes in the Fitzroy’s water level from climate change or water extraction could further impact the health of sawfish populations in the river. The Fitzroy River is considered the last stronghold for the sawfish, whose global population has disappeared by more than 60 per cent. Lead researcher Karissa Lear said the research showed sawfish were far healthier in years with greater wet season river flows, which allowed them to build higher resilience to the long dry seasons. The Pastoralists and Graziers Association is opposing the move to develop a Fitzroy national park, saying it would stifle development and job opportunities in the region.