Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries staff are investigating a fish kill in Lake Charles, in the wake of Hurricane Laura. Staff will be conducting an assessment to determine what species are impacted and the extent of the fish kill.
Fish kills can be associated with large amounts of rainfall and stormwater carrying organic matter into bayous and canals connected to lakes. This organic matter may consume high amounts of dissolved oxygen in the water, thereby “suffocating” aquatic life. Additionally, high winds and rains of a hurricane can cause the varying cool and warm waters to mix too rapidly and deplete oxygen levels, which can also cause fish kills.
For information on how to report a fish kill or more information about the causes of fish kills, visit our fish kill webpage.
The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is charged with managing and protecting Louisiana’s abundant natural resources. LDWF receives no state general funding and depends on license sales as a major funding source. Help us protect your hunting and fishing heritage while preserving habitat, wildlife, and aquatic resources by purchasing your license at www.wlf.la.gov. To receive email or text alerts signup here.