17/10/2025
Public Appeal After Suspected Fish Kill In Ballykelly River
The Loughs Agency is appealing to the public to help protect local waterways after a suspected fish kill on the Ballykelly River in Co L’Derry.
A total of 422 dead fish were recorded after fishery officers were deployed to the scene.
The majority of the fish were trout as well as several salmon and flounder.
In a statement the Loughs Agency said: "A thorough investigation into the incident was carried out in collaboration with NIEA's Water Management Unit. No direct pollution source was identified. However, both agencies suspect that this fish kill may have been caused by a chemical agent, possibly a cleaning substance.
"Loughs Agency and NIEA are appealing to the public to help protect local waterways by keeping storm drains free from chemicals and waste. They should carry rainwater only, as other substances can reduce water quality and cause serious harm to aquatic life.
"While it is believed that the majority of the affected fish have been recovered, some may remain in the area. Anyone who discovers a dead fish in the area is asked to leave it and contact Loughs Agency directly on +44 (0) 28 71 342100 to arrange collection with a Fishery Officer."
A total of 422 dead fish were recorded after fishery officers were deployed to the scene.
The majority of the fish were trout as well as several salmon and flounder.
"Loughs Agency and NIEA are appealing to the public to help protect local waterways by keeping storm drains free from chemicals and waste. They should carry rainwater only, as other substances can reduce water quality and cause serious harm to aquatic life.
"While it is believed that the majority of the affected fish have been recovered, some may remain in the area. Anyone who discovers a dead fish in the area is asked to leave it and contact Loughs Agency directly on +44 (0) 28 71 342100 to arrange collection with a Fishery Officer."
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19 April 2013
BBC Test Uncovers 'Fish Fraud'
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BBC Test Uncovers 'Fish Fraud'
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18 December 2001
Rodgers averts draconian fishing cuts for province
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27 June 2018
NIEA Issues Warning Over Summer Pollution
Following a major fish kill in Armagh and amid the current hot weather, the Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) have issued a pollution warning. Industry, landowners and farmers are being urged to take extra care to protect waters from pollution.
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A sunny but frosty start for many. However cloud increases by midday with a few showers reaching the north coast, these mostly light but spreading inland this afternoon. Chilly. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A rather cloudy evening with scattered showers. Becoming drier through the night with some good clear spells developing and a patchy frost away from coasts. Minimum temperature 0 °C.