09-17-2007, 05:46 PM
[font "Tms Rmn"]It was likely due to an unusually high blue-green algal bloom. The fish were of all sizes and species, indicating that it was not age-specific and suggesting it was related to water quality. Additionally, there were fish crowding the tributaries. Within a few daysthe fish had begun to disperse back throughout the lake. A rep from DEQ investigated and reported that there was indeed a severe blue-green algae bloom that likely resulted in an oxygen sag in the early morning hours over the labor day weekend. This combined with warm water temperatues, and possibly an ammonia build up associated with the blue-green algae was likely the cause of the mortality.
Fortunately, it doesn't appear to have been too widespread and it seems to have dissipated. Cooler air and water temperatures should restore good water conditions, but we will be watching closely in the next couple of weeks. [/font][font "Tms Rmn"][size 2]
Jim Fredericks
Regional Fishery Manager, Upper Snake Region
Idaho Department of Fish and Game
4279 Commerce Circle
Idaho Falls, ID 83401
(208) 525-7290[/size][/font]
[signature]
Fortunately, it doesn't appear to have been too widespread and it seems to have dissipated. Cooler air and water temperatures should restore good water conditions, but we will be watching closely in the next couple of weeks. [/font][font "Tms Rmn"][size 2]
Jim Fredericks
Regional Fishery Manager, Upper Snake Region
Idaho Department of Fish and Game
4279 Commerce Circle
Idaho Falls, ID 83401
(208) 525-7290[/size][/font]
[signature]