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Dead fish wash ashore in Lake Eustis, prompting investigation by FWC

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Published  January 2, 2025 7:51pm EST
Lake County
FOX 35 Orlando

FWC investigates after dead fish wash ashore in Lake Eustis

Residents near Lake Eustis are voicing concerns after hundreds of dead fish washed ashore over the weekend.

The Brief

    • Hundreds of dead fish washed ashore at Lake Eustis, raising environmental concerns among residents.
    • Florida Fish and Wildlife officials are investigating potential causes, including low oxygen, algae blooms, and extreme weather.
    • Water and fish samples are being tested, with results expected soon to determine the cause of the fish kill.

LAKE EUSTIS, Fla. - Residents near Lake Eustis are voicing concerns after hundreds of dead fish washed ashore over the weekend.

Nancy Stembridge, who noticed the fish near her backyard, expressed alarm about the environmental impact. 

"I'm just concerned for killing off healthy fish and how it affects the rest of the environment of the lake for the wildlife," she said.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is investigating the cause of the fish kill, citing several potential factors. Experts say low oxygen levels, algae blooms releasing toxins, extreme weather, diseases, or herbicides could be responsible.

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Despite the incident, some residents, like Larry Smith, remain hopeful and undeterred. 

"You want clean waters — you know that's important," Smith said, adding that he hopes the cause is natural and not due to pollution or deliberate harm.

FWC is testing water samples and collecting fish for analysis, with results expected in the coming days. 

"I feel good about that," Stembridge said. "I feel like they care about the waterways, and they care about the wildlife to protect it."

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The Source: This story was written based on information shared by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and from witness accounts.

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