Dead fish in Stumpy Lake

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY) – A smelly, unpleasant sight has resurfaced Stumpy Lake in Virginia Beach.

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

WAVY contacted the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality. A spokesman confirmed this Virginia Harmful Algal Bloom Task Force received and investigated a report of dead shad in Stumpy Lake.

She said natural causes were likely responsible for the fish kills, particularly increases in temperature and low flow leading to depletion dissolved oxygen in water.

2016: Hundreds of dead fish found near Stumpy Lake spillway

2017: Stumpy Lake overflow filled with dead fish

2019: VB and DEQ examine dead fish

WAVY has previously reported dead fish in Virginia Beach waterways. The Virginia DEQ says when it does happen, it usually occurs around this time of year.

The US Geological Survey explains that warm water contains less dissolved oxygen than cold water. Therefore, it can be difficult for fish to get enough water in summer.

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