Recently three fish kills occurred across the region, which are an indication of the current sensitivity of fish due to the low water levels and elevated water temperatures which make fish very vulnerable to any discharges to watercourses or siltation arising from riverside works. The North Western Regional Fisheries Board is therefore appealing for vigilance from the public in relation to fish kills.
Sinn Féin councillor Thérèse Ruane is outraged at this fish kill which took place in the Rodney River, Balla. “Here in Mayo, we pride ourselves on our clean rivers, lakes, and waterways,” Cllr Ruane said. “Fishing is a key industry and a real boost to tourism in the county. We must protect our environment, our heritage, and it is simply a disgrace to see the killing of wild species of brown trout in this way.”
Also in the past two weeks in excess of 5,000 trout have been salvaged form the Deel River which had ceased to flow.
The fisheries board is appealing to all intending to carry out works on or near watercourses to be particularly careful and, if in doubt, to contact the board for advice prior to the commencement of any works. Landowners should also be extremely careful when spreading slurry or when rinsing tankers and should keep well back from any streams or drains. The board is also asking the public to be vigilant and report any concerns in relation to fish becoming trapped in pools, showing signs of distress, or works which they consider could impact on watercourses. The board can be contacted at 096 22788.
