Agricultural discharge confirmed as cause of fish kill
Atlantic salmon, eel, brown trout, pike, minnow and coarse fish species are included among species that were killed as a result of the river pollution.
A fish kill which has killed over 20,000 fish in Co Louth has been confirmed to have been caused by agricultural discharge.
The fish kill, which occurred on the River Glyde in Co Louth and the affected area spans a 25km stretch of the river, has been described as a “serious fish kill” by the Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI).
The impacted area spans from Aclint Bridge, Co Monaghan to Lynns Weir, Castlebellingham, Co Louth.
The source of the pollution has been confirmed to be a result of agricultural discharge, and the IFI has said the pollution has been stopped.
The agency has confirmed that “IFI officers have been conducting sampling and clean-up operations on the river, and deploying kayak, drone and foot patrols to assess the affected area.”
Reportedly, Atlantic salmon, eel, brown trout, pike, minnow and coarse fish species are included among species mortalities from the river.
IFI have reported that samples from the river are being taken and sent for laboratory analysis.
A file is now being compiled and prepared for potential prosecution.
IFI reminds members of the public to exercise caution when working near waterbodies at this time of the year.
Inland Fisheries Ireland continues to urge the public to report instances of fisheries concern to its confidential 24/7 number, 0818 34 74 24.
Louth County Council have reported oxygen levels returning to normal following the incident and has liaised with Uisce Éireann, which has confirmed that there are no issues affecting water for public removal.
The River Glyde discharges into Dundalk Bay and has currently had no impacts on coastal waters or bathing water sites have been reported.
Louth County Council continues to carry out weekly monitoring in line with its obligations under the Bathing Water Regulations.
