STONEYFORD residents and Northern Ireland Water have appealed for vistors to Stoneyford Reservoir to respect the area and dispose of litter properly after the discovery of dead fish on the banks last week.
Stoneyford Reservoir
Pollution has been ruled out by NI Water and instead con
cerns have centred on the amount of litter at the site.
A spokesperson for NI Water said they had investigated after receiving the report of dead fish/
"Whilst a number of dead fish have been found adjacent to the eastern shoreline of the Stoneyford reservoir there are no indications of pollution" she said.
"However, as a precautionary measure additional water samples have been taken from the location for analysis and the situation will be closely monitored.
"Stoneyford Reservoir is accessible to the public and those who hold a fishing licence to fish in the reservoir. NI Water has, unfortunately, had a number of problems with regards to the disposal of litter arising from both visitors and fishermen.
"It is regrettable that litter bins previously installed around the reservoir had to be withdrawn due to severe vandalism."
One concerned resident commented: "The Stoneyford Community Association and the Jubilee Committee work hard to keep the area tidy. I would appeal to anyone visiting the area to make sure they take their rubbish away with them. I don't know what has caused the fish to die but I'm sure the rubbish isn't helping."
The NI Water spokesperson confirmed staff will undertake a litter pick to try and alleviate the rubbish dumped in the area and said the support of the public who use the reservoir area will be welcomed.
The full article contains 277 words and appears in Ulster Star newspaper.
