Fish Deaths in Urban Lakes Prompt Investigation

There has been some reports of catfish and sunfish mysteriously dying at Chaparel Lake in Scottsdale. The water is being tested to determine why.

Eric Swanson, urban-fishing-program manager for the Department of Game and Fish, said that as long as the fish are caught alive, look healthy and have no sores or bruising, they should be safe to eat, provided they are cleaned and cooked properly. But many local residents aren't taking any chances.

Water temperature, oxygen and acidity levels have all tested fine. Tests are now checking for golden algae as well as a few other things. Golden algae secretes toxins that affect fish and other animals with gills. Although the algae does not pose a health risk to humans, you don't want to touch or eat any dead fish found in the lakes.

Golden algae had caused recent problems (and fish deaths) at Cortez Lake (Phoenix) and Water Ranch Lake (Gilbert). Recent Fish deaths have also been reported at Desert Breeze Lake (Chandler) and Surprise Lake (Surprise).

Because of the recent die-offs, Game and Fish last week stocked only 50 to 60 percent of the usual number of fish at Chaparral Lake.