MN DNR Encourages Reporting of Fish Die-Offs

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources encourages Minnesotans to contact the state duty officer if they see evidence of a fish die-off in a lake or stream. Fish die-offs can result from a variety of natural and human causes. In mid-spring and summer, fish die-offs are often the result of warming water and opportunistic infections that spread in fish populations that are already stressed after the spawning season. Species commonly observed in these die-offs include sunfish, crappies and bullheads along with largemouth bass and northern pike. To report fish die-offs, people should call the Minnesota duty officer at 651-649-5451 0r 800-422-0798. The officer line is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. An early report allows timely water and fish sampling or other response actions. if needed. More information on fish kills is available on the DNR website (mndnr.gov/fisheries/fishkills.html).