Volunteers are being urged to head down to Sandown’s canoe lake (next to Dinosaur Isle) for 3pm today to help build a dam in the leaking pond whilst the fish that are struggling to breathe due to the very low water levels are relocated.
The Isle of Wight community appears to be pulling together to resolve the situation, with Matthew Sherwood spearheading the rescue efforts.
Relocating fish
Blue Seas Protection says they have received permission from the landowner to relocate the fish while the situation in the lake is improved. They also say the Environment Agency (EA) have given permission to pump water into the lake if the predicted rain doesn’t arrive.
Building a dam
Jewsons in Sandown have donated a large liner for the dam project and volunteers are needed (from 3pm) to help with this effort. The idea is to build a dam on one side of the lake where the water is less shallow – allowing the fish greater access to deeper water.
Edward Burden – who rescues birds and wildlife – has assessed the area and has a pen ready for the swans if it works out that they need to be removed. Sadly their cygnets have already died, so Edward believes they may just fly off.
IWC: EA liaising with the predominant land owner
An Isle of Wight Council spokesperson told News OnTheWight,
“Whilst the Isle of Wight Council is the responsible land owner for one third of the lake, the Environmental Agency are the lead agency regarding water levels and the wellbeing of fish stock and are advising and liaising with the predominant land owner to resolve any issues.
“If members of the public have concerns. They should phone the Environment Agency incident number 0800 80 70 60.”
Stay up to date
A meeting was held last night and a new Facebook Group – Sandown Canoe Lake Save Our Fish – has been formed where updates are being regularly posted.
This helps Sandown Hub avoid becoming inundated with posts on one subject.
It’s great to see the community coming together.
Article edit
11am 12th Aug 2020 – Comment from IWC added. Sentence about whether permissions needed removed
