June 2016.
Two small fishing parties that visited the creek recently illustrate its continuing appeal. One was a youngster with her pink fishing rod and her dad, who explained “this is strictly catch and release.” The other, a tall white egret, offered no explanation – none needed.
When NPNA residents spotted a number of dead fish in the creek last month, a prompt and thorough investigation soon followed. Neighborhood environmentalists tested the creek water near the site of the apparent fish kill, and relayed their observations to personnel from the City’s Trinity Watershed Division, who removed about 40 dead fish, conducted their own tests, and diligently returned for several days to monitor for any additional fish die-off.
Since small fish and minnows continued to thrive in the creek waters, and the fish in question were generally larger (including some catfish) than those we normally see in the creek, the consensus conclusion was that these fish likely originated elsewhere, and were dumped into the Joe’s Creek, let’s just say, by someone who got away with it this time.
We can be grateful for the quick response from our own experts, the prompt and sustained actions from the City, and that no unusual pollution was found in this incident. We are also reminded of the fragile nature of the ecology of the creek – its very accessibility makes it easy to introduce contaminants either intentionally or by default – and the efforts needed to keep it uncontaminated.
Two areas merit special attention during the summer months:
Swimming pools – extra care should be taken to ensure that no chlorinated water is discharged into the alleys, and thus into the creek. City Stormwater publishes guidelines for water discharge from pools, including specifying the maximum level of chlorine acceptable. It’s a simple matter to test the water for chlorine and ph before discharge. Note there can be a substantial fine levied for excess chlorine discharge. See Swimming Pool Discharge for the guidelines.
Lawns – can also be a source of pollution if too much fertilizer or weed killer is used. Organic methods are best, and one good source for these methods is Howard Garrett’s newsletter. See his website www.dirtdoctor.com.
Enjoy summer, but let’s keep the creek natural, for the fish, and for all those who delight in observing.
Vince Punaro, Creek Event Leader