Urgent Alert: Fungal Infection Kills 1,000 Trout in Co Cork

URGENT UPDATE: A devastating fungal infection has reportedly killed up to 1,000 brown trout in the River Blackwater in Co Cork, as confirmed by Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI). This alarming incident, first reported yesterday, is believed to be linked to ongoing hot and dry weather conditions across Ireland.

Officials from IFI are currently investigating the situation across an 8-kilometre stretch of the river, specifically between Mallow and Roskeen Bridge in Lombardstown. The area is experiencing critically low water levels, with temperatures fluctuating between 17 and 19 degrees Celsius. These environmental factors have heightened the vulnerability of freshwater fish, leading to this catastrophic event.

Authorities have noted that Ireland’s recent summer weather has been exceptionally dry, resulting in periodic closures of fisheries in the west. While inspections of other nearby rivers, including the Allow and Minor Awbeg, have not indicated any signs of infection or dead trout, the situation in River Blackwater remains critical.

Officials from IFI are collaborating with Uisce Éireann, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and Cork County Council to monitor the situation. Staff from the Marine Institute are also on-site, conducting sampling to identify the potential infection. So far, investigations have shown no evidence of pollution contributing to the fish deaths.

In light of this developing situation, IFI has issued a strong warning for anglers. All fishing activities in the affected stretch of the river are prohibited to prevent further spread of the suspected infection. Anglers are urged to thoroughly wash, clean, and dry all equipment and avoid crossing catchments with fishing gear.

IFI continues to appeal to the public to report any instances of fish kills or suspected water pollution to its 24-hour confidential phone line at 0818 34 74 24.

As the situation unfolds, authorities stress the importance of community vigilance and cooperation. The health of the local ecosystem and fishing industry hangs in the balance as they work tirelessly to determine the cause and prevent further losses.

Stay tuned for updates on this critical environmental issue as IFI and partner organizations continue to investigate and monitor the River Blackwater.