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A local business is assisting the States to improve conditions in Saumarez Park pond - completely free of charge.
Agriculture, Countryside & Land Management Services (ACLMS) told Express earlier this week that high temperatures and dry weather is reducing oxygen levels in the pond and therefore increasing fish mortalities.
ACLMS has begun emptying tankers of water into the pond this week to rebalance conditions for the fish, and it has now been approached by D.W Lloyd Limited who is providing specialist pond management services for free.
Works have already commenced, and the water quality will be continually monitored throughout the dry spell. Further tankers are planned to be emptied to ensure water levels remain sufficient.
Jim Robinson, Director of Natural Environment, called the offer of assistance “kind”, and said work commenced “very quickly”.
Dan from D.W Lloyd said specialist professional products from OASE are being used to improve conditions, and that petrol pumps are being installed around the pond to “aerate the water”.
Pictured: The public has reported multiple dead fish floating in the pond over the last week.
Dan continued: “The products we are using are from OASE, who are worldwide pond specialists and whom we train and work closely with. The products are not harmful to fish, people, wildlife or livestock.”
“When I saw the condition of the pond after being tagged in photos, I was shocked. My own children love the park and to see the fish dying is upsetting. I contacted ACLMS late on Wednesday night and met with them yesterday to discuss an action plan.”
Mr Robinson added: “We’re very grateful to them, as this work is more complicated than it may first appear. For example, disturbing the sediment at the bottom of the pond will make matters worse, but through using their specialist knowledge and experience, oxygen levels in the pond can be increased while avoiding disturbance of this sediment.
“Dead fish will also be collected and disposed of safely with the help of the States Veterinary Officers.”
Pictured (top): Pumps around the duck pond. Credit: States of Guernsey.
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