Blainville Fish Mortality: Low Oxygen Levels Identified as Likely Cause

Fish Mortality in Blainville’s Lacs Fauvel: Oxygen Depletion Suspected

The City of Blainville is investigating a recent incident of fish mortality in the Lacs Fauvel. Preliminary tests suggest that low oxygen levels under the ice are the most probable cause. This follows reports of numerous dead fish discovered in the lakes.

Investigation and Testing

Responding to citizen reports, the City of Blainville commissioned the Parc de la Rivière‑des‑Mille‑Îles, a recognized expert in natural environment conservation, to measure dissolved oxygen levels in the lakes. The organization has a proven track record, having conducted similar studies, including one in Rosemère.

This isn’t the first time this has happened. A similar event occurred in the Lacs Fauvel in 2014, where fish also suffered from oxygen deprivation due to persistent ice cover. The current tests were designed to evaluate this hypothesis, and initial results indicate a correlation between low oxygenation and the fish deaths.

Understanding Anoxia Under Ice

Further analysis, conducted at various depths, will be crucial to confirm these findings. The Lacs Fauvel are particularly susceptible to a phenomenon known as anoxia under ice – a condition where oxygen levels become critically low. This occurs when ice cover prevents oxygen from entering the water and limits gas exchange.

What is Anoxia? Anoxia is a state of complete oxygen deprivation. In aquatic environments, it can occur when organic matter decomposes, consuming oxygen in the process. When combined with ice cover, this can create a deadly situation for fish and other aquatic life.

Collaboration with Provincial Authorities

The City of Blainville has also been informed that the Ministère de l’Environnement, de la Lutte contre les changements climatiques, de la Faune et des Parcs (MELCCFP) is conducting its own water quality analysis to determine the cause of the fish mortality. The City will continue to monitor the situation closely and collaborate with provincial authorities.

Stay Informed

The City of Blainville is committed to understanding and addressing this issue. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

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