6 days Ago
Water has been pumped into a pond following concerns for the welfare of fish living there. Visitors and residents to East Beach pond in Selsey, near Chichester, raised concerns after a large number of fish were found dead. The Environment Agency confirmed this was due to a combination of factors including low water levels, salinity, and low oxygen caused by an algal bloom.
Chichester District Council have confirmed that they have pumped around 180,000 litres of water into the pond to help the wildlife. This follows a report from the Environment Agency which identified a number of issues including low water levels, salinity and low oxygen caused by algal bloom. A spokesperson for Chichester District Council said: “We have been monitoring the situation at East Beach Pond closely over the past couple of weeks.
“We have also been working closely with Portsmouth Water to look at the feasibility of pumping water into the pond to bring the water levels back up. “As a result, 90,000 litres of water was pumped into the pond between midnight on Tuesday 22 April and 5am on Wednesday 23 April.” Dead fish pulled out the water (Image: Supplied) They added that a further 90,000 litres was pumped into the pond on the evening of the April 23.
“The reason for adding the extra water is to generate a stronger flow through the pond and produce oxygen for the struggling fish. We will then continue to monitor the pond.” Bobby Watman, a fisherman from Selsey, told The Argus on April 13 how he had been pumping water into the pond himself.
Mr Watman said: ““As humans we have a duty of care to look after them. “It’s heartbreaking to see. “It’s really frustrating trying to get anywhere.
” Alongside others, Bobby has been helping to fish out the dead animals and support those remaining. Resident, Maxine Greenbrook, 57, lives near the pond and shared her concerns. She said: “I look after the swans at the pond.
This whole situation has really upset me. “Our fish are dying, seriously dying. The carp are gasping for air.
“During the Easter weekend, there were kids going round wanting to see the ducklings and the swans. Some were in tears seeing all the dead fish.” Following an inspection by the Environment Agency, a spokesperson said: “Our officers took water samples from East Beach pond and confirmed the presence of a naturally occurring algal bloom, caused by warmer temperatures.
“We are in contact with the local authority, which owns the land, who are working to solve the problem. “The fish were likely struggling due to a combination of factors including low water levels, salinity, and low oxygen caused by an algal bloom. “The condition of the water will improve with the next significant rainfall but unfortunately ponds like this one will continue to be vulnerable due to climate change.
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