Pond Contamination - Fish Kill

As many of you may know, there was a recent high fish kill count at the pond recently. Some residents noticed a white film around the shoreline which is indicative of chlorine toxicity. Chemical testing was conducted and it was determined there was an elevated chlorine level. This happens when a water source with chlorine makes its way into the pond. Examples of when this could happen are: a pool is drained and the water is directed into the storm water drains, a fire hydrant is flushed, a city water line break, and potential the city's nearby water tower could also have released water into the storm drains. Water from storm drains will eventually make its way to the pond and surrounding water ways. When chlorine gets into the water, it burns the gills of the fish and makes it difficult for them to breathe. Combine that with summer heat and naturally low oxygen and you have a recipe for disaster. The rainstorm early Saturday morning and the fountain interruption over the weekend also has to be factored. The HOA is continuing to investigate this matter, and has notified the EPA. Hopefully the source of the contamination can be determined to prevent this in the future.