Arizona lake forced to close after ‘significant fish kill event’

Environment
8 Jun 2026 • 1:18 AM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Arizona lake forced to close after ‘significant fish kill event’

  • San Carlos Lake in Arizona has been closed indefinitely after a "significant fish kill event" resulted in the death of approximately 100% of its fish population.
  • The popular fishing destination, located about 125 miles east of Phoenix, is typically abundant with various fish species, including largemouth bass and channel catfish.
  • Officials from the San Carlos Recreation and Wildlife Department stated that recent drought conditions, combined with water releases from the dam caused the mass fish deaths.
  • The decomposing fish carcasses pose health and safety risks to people, leading officials to warn the public to stay away from the lake.
  • All activities, including fishing, harvesting, and other recreational pursuits, are currently prohibited at the lake, with no immediate timeline for its reopening.

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