The city has put out a public advisory warning of what is known as a “fish kill,” currently taking place in sections of Bear Creek.
This seasonal event typically occurs in the spring or summer according to the city, and is often caused by high water temperatures and subsequent bacterial or microbial infection. The highest concentration of affected fish is the stretch of Bear Creek running from just below the reservoir to the Ernie Radbourne Pavilion in Muskoseepi Park.
Residents are asked to take the following precautions in areas where dead or decomposing fish are present:
Avoid swimming and other recreational activities such as paddle boarding in affected areas.
Refrain from fishing in or consuming fish from areas near the die-off.
Do not consume or use dead fish as bait.
Keep pets away from the water and from any dead fish they may encounter.
For those looking to enjoy the great outdoors, officials say the Muskoseepi Park pond is not affected, and the stocked trout species in the pond are not impacted by this.
Wildlife officials will continue to monitor the situation.
