Investigations continue to hit a dead end after approximately 100,000 dead fish washed up on the banks of the River Nene, Peterborough.
The shocking discovery took place along the riverbank between Orton Backwater and Goldie Backwater, as well as at Ferry Meadows park on December 12th, 2023, sparked concern and prompted urgent inquiries.
The affected fish were identified as mostly roach but also found pike, perch and bream amongst the masses of washed-up fish covering the river banks. [ref: https://www.anglingtimes.co.uk/news/stories/anglers-devastated-after-pollution-incident-kills-100000-roach/]
Initially thought to be caused by sewage contamination, this was quickly ruled out by the Environmental Agency as they sought to find the source of this event.
The lack of knowledge and information being brought forward about this event has made it difficult to go forward with the investigation, and the Environmental Agency is exhausting all routes, including fast-tracking samples and assigning dedicated officers in a bid to identify the pollutant.
A spokesperson reported to the BBC, "Regrettably, despite our exhaustive efforts, our investigative pursuits did not unearth any further evidence of harm inflicted upon the environment. Currently, we are observing a return to normal fish behaviour". [ref: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c2qe5331654o]
"In light of these developments, we are in the process of orchestrating comprehensive fish population surveys, poised to assess the status of fish stocks, thereby informing potential remedial measures, such as targeted restocking initiatives aimed at replenishing specific sections of the river," the spokesperson continued.
As of yet, there is no evidence that terrestrial animals or humans have been affected by the pollutant, but until officers can be sure of whatever substance devastated the river, the public have been warned to stay away from the area until further notice.
Present concerns are to identify the source of this event, and to mitigate any future impact it may have on the aquatic environment.
Rivers and natural bodies of water have an intricate balance that's maintained by the plants, organisms and all forms of life inhabiting the space. With such a great loss of fish, an important component to maintaining the river's harmony now raises concerns in regard to the food-chain and future breeding numbers of the remaining fish.
Recognising the urgency of the matter, the agency continues to investigate the matter in a desperate bid to identify the pollutant, and asks for the public to come forward with any information about activity around the area in the days before the event.