8/21/2007

Algae Die-off Causes Lake Panorama Fish Kill

PANORA - The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has determined that low oxygen caused by an algae die-off is responsible for a fish kill involving hundreds of 4 to 6-inch crappies in Burchfield Cove, an arm on the north side of Lake Panorama.

"We investigated the fish kill and found nothing to indicate any potential source of pollution or any other possible cause," said Chris Larson, fisheries supervisor for the DNR in southwest Iowa. "The fish kill was limited to one fish species and one location on the lake."

The water in some parts of Lake Panorama has a green coloration to it from a large algae bloom. During the hot weather last week, there was likely a significant algae die-off in the cove. When algae dies, it uses oxygen in the water to break down. A combination of hot weather and low oxygen can cause fish kills.

"We have seen a lot of these natural fish kills in the area recently. Warm water holds less oxygen, and decaying vegetation uses oxygen in the water and the combination of the two can cause fish kills," Larson said.

The fish kill is not anticipated to impact the fish population in Lake Panorama.

For more information, contact Mick Klemesrud at 515-281-8653.