3 Minnesota agencies probe deaths of 2,500 fish on Rush Creek near Lewiston
LEWISTON, Minn. (WKBT) — Three Minnesota state agencies are investigating the deaths of about 2,500 fish, including nearly 1,900 brown trout on Rush Creek near Lewiston.
The fish kill was reported on July 26, according to a news release Wednesday from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, Department of Natural Resources and Department of Agriculture.
“Evidence indicates that this fish kill likely did not occur naturally,” the release said. “The agencies have launched thorough investigations to look at all possible causes, including whether this was triggered by an extreme weather event.”
Field crews from the agencies have collected fish and water samples, which they are analyzing to help determine the cause of the fish kill.
The dead fish were discovered after heavy rain in the area on July 23, said the release, which noted that such rainfall events are known to propel contaminated runoff into streams and rivers.
Lewiston is in Winona County, about 15 miles southwest of the county seat.
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