Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) is reminding people to protect their pets and themselves by avoiding dead fish in Stony Creek and the upper parts of the bay.
EPA is continuing to monitor air quality in the western suburbs and water quality around the bay in the wake of the West Footscray factory fire on Thursday, August 30.
Water quality should begin to show signs of improvement over the coming week.
Chief Environmental Scientist Dr Andrea Hinwood said a contractor involved in the clean-up of Stony Creek had removed approximately 300 dead fish already and estimated a further 2000 needed to be removed.
“This is a large volume of dead fish, approximately a tonne, and we’re expecting more fish to wash up at bayside beaches,” she said.
“We urge pet owners to ensure their dogs do not eat any dead fish on the beach. We know it can be hard to control our animals sometimes so if you think your dog won’t be able to control themselves, swap a walk along the beach for a park this week.
“While the dead fish are distressing, the good news is we’ve seen no signs that water quality in the bay has been affected by contaminated run off.
“All water being used to fight the fire is now contained on site and clean up of Stony Creek will commence shortly.”