Dead Fish and Algae
Fish
We are aware that there is a larger than normal panfish die-off occurring this spring. Panfish typically have mortality in the spring that is dependent upon harshness of winter, temperature fluctuations and oxygen levels in the water. The very short article below reviews these phenomena. However because this years' numbers are higher than normal we are taking a few actions. We have reached out to the DEC, SUNY ESF and SUNY Morrisville for assistance in doing water quality testing as well as testing the fish in an attempt to determine if there is a problem.
Algae
Additionally we recognize that there has been a higher than normal amount of algae this spring compared to prior years. We are finding that this is occurring in numerous lakes throughout the region and we are not alone in this. Lake Erie has already had a Harmful Algae Bloom which they attributed to the above normal precipitation and subsequent runoff carrying excess nutrients into the lake. Last week we tested some suspicious water, however the tests did not find any harmful algae. We are collecting additional water samples this weekend to have SUNY ESF analyze as well as do a complete chemical analysis of the water.
We will continue to do our best to stay on top of and ahead of these issues and communicate with everyone as best possible.