HHNK on High Alert for Fish Mortality
Mowing ditches and canals must be carried out starting June 15 due to the large amount of aquatic plants that can obstruct water flow. However, the Hollands Noorderkwartier Water Board is concerned that fish mortality may occur earlier this mowing season due to high water temperatures and the presence of viruses in the water. The HHNK’s procedure is that, if fish are in distress, work is immediately halted and measures are taken as necessary.
Viruses
Klazien Hartog, portfolio holder for Integrated Urban Water Management: “We are all too aware that we are mowing in ‘the fish’s home.’ We always take that into account. Unfortunately, the goldfish herpesvirus and Koi herpesvirus (KHV) are currently present in the water in our area, which has already led to fish deaths. Extra caution is therefore required during the work.”
What to Do in Case of Fish Mortality?
As soon as fish begin to surface en masse to gasp for air, you must immediately call the HHNK emergency number. The water board can then deploy pumps on site to add extra oxygen to the water or take other measures.
- Immediately halt work
- Do Not Touch
Do not touch dead animals in the water with your bare hands. Even though the virus found in giebels is not harmful to humans, we still recommend that you do not touch the dead fish. - Report as soon as possible
As soon as dead fish are found floating in the water, they must be removed as quickly as possible to prevent the spread of pathogens. Report the fish mortality to the municipality or the water board. If there are more than five dead fish, the water board will remove them as soon as possible. HHNK can be reached on weekdays from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at 072 - 582 8282, and outside these hours at 0800 - 1430.