Dead fish, algae blooms raise concerns at Lochloosa Lake

HAWTHORNE, Fla. (WCJB) — Residents near Lochloosa Lake are reporting dead fish, dying vegetation and algae blooms, raising concerns about the condition of the lake.

Along the shoreline, dead snails have washed up, patches of dying vegetation line the banks and algae blooms are visible across parts of the lake. Fishermen say they have watched conditions worsen over the past several months.

Fishermen say they believe herbicide spraying used to control aquatic plants may be contributing to the problem. They say the loss of those plants is also destroying habitat for fish and other wildlife.

Eric Cassels, a fisherman, said the spraying has had a visible impact on the lake’s ecosystem.

“And they’re spraying the habitat. You can’t have fish without fishes’ homes. You can’t have fish food — no fish food, and have fish. You’ve got to have the grass. You’ve got to have the happy medium. And the shorelines are totally decimated right now. It’s the biggest mess I’ve ever seen,” Cassels said.

Residents say they want more transparency about what is being sprayed, how often it is being applied and whether other options should be considered to protect the lake.

Cassels said residents reached out to the St. Johns River Water Management District, and officials said the herbicide used is approved for aquatic applications. Staff continue to monitor conditions while managing invasive vegetation. They are continuing to investigate what may be contributing to the recent fish die-off.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission did not respond to TV20’S request for comment.

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