GOLDEN ALGA HITS LAKES, OTHER LAKES LOSE FISH TOO

These have been difficult times for fish and fishermen alike at five Urban Fishing Program Lakes in the Phoenix area over the past few weeks. Golden alga blooms came on suddenly at Cortez and Water Ranch Lakes resulting in the loss of over 80 fish at each lake. Both lakes have since been treated with algaecides to kill off the troublesome, microscopic golden alga and stop its toxins from affecting any more fish. Recent tests indicate golden alga is under control at Cortez, but is not fully under control at Water Ranch. Some fish loses have also been reported from Desert Breeze, Chaparral and Surprise Lakes in recent weeks. Game and Fish biologists, parks staff and lake management consultants have all collaborated to respond to these issues promptly and perform all necessary water quality testing and lake management treatments. Lake conditions have returned to normal at Desert Breeze and are improving at Chaparral and Surprise. Read below to learn how all these environmental stresses will affect catfish stockings. April 14-19 Catfish Stocking Status: Due to golden alga, Cortez Lake was not stocked with catfish on April 2, however it has been successfully treated and is cleared for stocking. Water Ranch Lake has been treated, but has not been cleared for stocking. Conditions at Desert Breeze Lake are back to normal and the lake is cleared for stocking. Conditions at Chaparral Lake and at Surprise Lake are both improving, but not fully recovered, consequently they are cleared for partial (50-60%) stockings. Water Ranch anglers are advised to fish nearby Red Mountain or Kiwanis Lakes that will each be receiving extra catfish this stocking.