Viewer photos: Dead fish in Stumpy Lake

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY) – A stinky, unpleasant sight has re-emerged at Stumpy Lake in Virginia Beach.

A 10 On Your Side viewer sent in photos taken on May 1 that show hundreds of dead fish in the lake.

WAVY reached out to the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality. A spokesperson confirmed the Virginia Harmful Algal Bloom Task Force received and investigated a report of dead gizzard shad in Stumpy Lake.

She said natural causes are likely to blame for the fish kill, specifically temperature increases and low flow, which depletes dissolved oxygen in the water.

WAVY has previously reported on dead fish in Virginia Beach waterways. The Virginia DEQ says when it happens, it’s usually around this time of year.

The U.S. Geological Survey explains that warm water holds less dissolved oxygen than cold water. As a result, it can be tough for fish to get enough water in the summertime.

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