Reports of Dead Fish Continue to Rise in Minnesota
The Minnesota DNR says fish mortality is rising as warm, dry conditions stress lakes and officials urge residents to report dead fish.
- DNR Fish Health Supervisor Isaiah Tolo reported 217 mortality events across more than 100 bodies of water this summer, reflecting a significant surge in fish deaths statewide due to high water temperatures.
- Consistent high temperatures and minimal precipitation have depleted oxygen levels in lakes, creating stressful conditions for fish as algae growth and decomposition further drain oxygen from the water.
- About 30% of the 217 mortality events occurred during a four-day span in July; recent kills include northern pike and cisco in Stearns County, alongside lake sturgeon in Otter Tail County.
- The Minnesota DNR urges residents to report mortality events through their website, while anglers are encouraged to minimize handling of sensitive species like walleye and pike during thermal stress.
- Minnesota lakes have warmed 3 to 4 degrees on average over the past 50 years, losing 10 to 14 days of ice cover, which scientists say will likely increase the frequency of these mortality events.
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Minnesota DNR reports heightened fish mortality during prolonged heat
With hot summer weather creating stressful conditions for fish in lakes, rivers and streams across the state, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is sharing what people can do if they see a fish mortality event — and how they…
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Reports of dead fish continue to rise in Minnesota
High water temperatures and a lack of rain are contributing to fish deaths across more than 100 bodies of water in Minnesota.
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