Heavy Rain Triggers Fish Die-Off Along San Angelo’s Concho River

Texas Parks and Wildlife officials say heavy rain that moved through San Angelo Thursday evening has led to low oxygen levels in parts of the Concho River, resulting in stressed and dying fish. Biologists found some of the worst conditions near the Irving Street crossing, where oxygen levels fell far below what fish need to survive. Reports of distressed and dead fish extended upstream as far as Central High School. Officials say the problem is not uncommon during late summer, when hot, stagnant water is suddenly stirred up by heavy rainfall. Fortunately, oxygen levels improve farther downstream and are expected to recover as sunlight increases photosynthesis in the river. Parks and Wildlife will continue monitoring conditions but expects the situation to improve as the day progresses.