Ongoing Fish Deaths South of Streator Continue
The Vermilion River in Illinois is currently experiencing a significant fish kill, with the majority of dead fish found being silver carp. This unfortunate event is occurring south of the city, below the Streator Dam.
According to stream biologists with the state, the current situation in the Vermilion River won't improve without significant rainfall. The area around Streator is currently designated as "abnormally dry," and almost the entire Vermilion River Basin is in the same category.
The temperatures in the Vermilion River remain relatively high, and cooler temperatures are necessary for improvement, as stated by the state's stream biologists. They predict that the situation will persist until significant rainfall and cooler temperatures are experienced.
The current dry conditions in the Vermilion River Basin are not expected to improve without substantial rainfall. The lack of significant rainfall and the higher temperatures have led to decreased river levels and poorer water quality, contributing to the ongoing fish kill.
The Vermilion River is home to both invasive and native fish species. Besides silver carp, other invasive species identified include bighead carp, common carp, and grass carp. Among the native species, bass, bluegill, and catfish have been identified.
The state's stream biologists have confirmed the presence of these various fish species in the Vermilion River. They believe that the low-oxygen conditions when the water stops flowing over the dam could be the cause of death for these native species, particularly.
It's important to note that the fish kill is believed to be nature-driven, and not caused by human activities. However, the ongoing drought conditions, potentially causing the fish kill near the Streator dam, are due to a combination of unusually low rainfall, higher temperatures, and reduced water flow.
The State of Illinois has confirmed the presence of these conditions in the Vermilion River Basin. The situation is expected to remain unchanged until cooler temperatures are experienced and significant rainfall occurs, providing much-needed relief to the river and its diverse aquatic life.
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