Why is Canvey Lake experiencing water quality issues?
Canvey Lake was created as a flood management feature and is fed by rainwater and surface water run-off rather than natural underground water sources.
Parts of the Lake are very shallow, which means the water warms up quickly during hot weather. Warm water holds less oxygen, making conditions more difficult for fish and other wildlife. Water quality is also affected by the large number of birds using the Lake, as their droppings add nutrients to the water. The Lake also has limited shade and relatively few plants that help produce oxygen.
Why are you not relocating fish immediately?
This is a regulated activity and requires approval from the Environment Agency. Fish cannot be safely relocated during the warmer months. This is normally carried out between September and March when water temperatures are lower. Our aquatic specialists are working to secure the necessary approvals so the work can take place at the appropriate time later this year.
Before fish can be moved, checks must be carried out to ensure they can be safely captured, transported and relocated. The health of the fish population must also be assessed to prevent diseases being spread to other water bodies.
We have contacted the Environment Agency Fisheries Officer and their position remains unchanged that they will not be able to consider any emergency fish removals at present. They reiterated the safety risks associated with the low levels and silt making this impossible to rescue via boat or via waders.
Will you be adding more aerators?
Yes, if possible.
We would like to install additional aerators along the length of the Lake. However, some areas, particularly towards Oyster Fleet, are currently too shallow for them to work effectively.
Planned desilting work will help increase water depth in some locations, which may allow more aerators to be installed in future. We are also exploring options to provide power along the length of the Lake so that additional aerators can be added when conditions allow.
Why can't dredging start immediately?
Dredging cannot begin until the necessary approvals have been obtained from the Environment Agency. This includes a Flood Risk Activity Permit (FRAP).
Before applying for the permit, we need to understand exactly what material has built up and how it can be safely removed and managed. We are currently carrying out surveys and investigations with our aquatic specialists to gather this information.
The results will help shape both the dredging plans and the permit application before any work can start.
Can the Fire Brigade help with the drought?
We have contacted Essex County Fire and Rescue Service to explore whether they may be able to assist. We have the required permissions in place should support be available, however, we are aware of the demands on the Fire Service during the heatwave.
The Lake covers a large area and the additional water would need to be substantial to make any meaningful difference. For these reasons the Environment Agency has advised against it.
Is there an intention to build on Canvey Lake in future?
No. Canvey Lake is a flood defence.
How will the £1 million funding be spent?
The full £1 million is allocated to dredging works taking place this winter. Water testing and aquatic planting have a separate budget of £144k over 3 years and 7 months which is in addition to and not part of the £1 million dredging budget.
Why are dead fish visible in the Lake?
We understand that seeing dead fish can be upsetting. Our contractor attends regularly to remove them where possible but they are not always accessible at the time of the visit. Dead fish can drift depending on water movement.
Our Grounds Maintenance Contractor is asked to attend and remove fish with nets where possible. We do not recommend that residents attempt to remove fish themselves due to health and safety concerns. Please leave this to our contractor or report them to us.