Fish are getting killed en masse at the popular Denver-area Sloan's Lake, leaving locals scratching their heads with regard to why the die-off is taking place.
Several different organizations have chimed in to provide some insight, and it looks like multiple factors are at play with Sloan's Lake Park Foundation reporting that around 2,000 fish are estimated to have died at the location over the past week.
Denver Gazette's Anya Moore reports that it's a combination of multiple factors, according to the Denver Department of Public Health and Environment – blue-green algae, heat, and environment processes. That said, one major underlying issue might be behind a lot of the problems.
Here's a look at how each factor might be killing fish:
Blue-green algae: Technically a bacteria, blue-green algae can reduce the presence of oxygen in a water source, thus making it more difficult for fish to get the oxygen they need to survive.
Heat: Fish are extremely sensitive to temperature changes, with increasing temperatures capable of stressing fish populations and leading to death. Additionally, warmer water holds less oxygen, which can also impact a fish population's livelihood. It's worth noting that heat is also a factor behind blue-algae blooms.
Environmental factors: According to Sloan's Lake Park Foundation, sediment is filling the lake from historic and modern construction in the area, with a reported 23 storm drains flowing into the lake unfiltered. This has resulted in the lake having an average depth of 3.3 feet, says a spokesperson of the group, which can result in unhealthy water.
The solution?
According to Sloan's Lake Park Foundation, the best and most permanent solution to the issue is to dredge the lake. This would involve removing all of the sediment in the lake that has reportedly lowered its depth. A lower depth can make a lake more susceptible to temperature changes and algae blooms, as well as impact the quality of the nutrients in a water source.
The foundation is seeking funding that will allow this dredging to take place, also calling on assistance from local politicians.
"We must act swiftly to dredge the lake and address the underlying causes of its decline. Our community deserves a safe, clean, and vibrant lake, and we need the support of elected officials at every level to make this a reality," reads a press release from the group.
Given the presence of blue-green algae in Sloan's Lake, it's probably best to avoid contact with the water at this time. Don't allow pets to drink the water, either, as consumption of blue-green algae can be deadly.
Find more information about the Sloan's Lake Park Foundation here .
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