Mid Western Regional Council and Central Tablelands Local Land Services will be hosting a Carp Muster at the Putta Bucca Wetlands on Saturday 14 February.

Carp have a detrimental effect on water quality and their feeding habits are destructive to plants, which provide critical feeding, spawning and nursery habitat for native fish.

There are various approaches to carp control but it has been recognised that control in wetlands is integral to overall population management.

So whether you are young or old and whatever your fishing ability, come along and have some fun and help remove this pest from our waterways.

The main event for the day will be the fishing competition which will run from 10am to 12:50pm. Prizes will be awarded for biggest fish, most fish and smallest fish caught in adult, teenage and child categories. Mudgee Camping and 4WD have also donated lucky door prizes as well as a prize for largest carp of the day.

Club Mudgee Fishing Club members will be on hand to offer advice and to measure your fish.

Registration for the fishing competition is free but all entrants 18 years and above must have a fishing license and comply with the NSW fishing rules. License or receipt of license must be presented upon entry.

Bring your fishing equipment, hat, sunscreen and show off your angling skills. A free sausage sizzle lunch will be available on the day. Drinks will be available on the day with proceeds going to support the Mudgee Men's Shed.

The Friends of Putta Bucca will also be hosting a biodiversity walk at 9am. Start the day with a ramble around this unique site and learn more about the Putta Bucca Wetlands and its bird, animal and plant life.

For more information contact Beth Greenfield, Environment Officer with Mid-Western Regional Council on 6378 2850.