By RICK MILLER
Olean Star
FRANKLINVILLE — The state Department of Environmental Conservation and Cattaraugus County Health Department are investigating a significant fish kill in Ischua Creek in and downstream from the village of Franklinville.
In a statement issued Thursday, the DEC said it is “actively investigating a potential organic waste discharge into Ischua Creek in Franklinville and a significant fish and wildlife die-off.
The cause remains unknown as DEC teams take samples and survey the area in an attempt to find the source.
“DEC is working with State and local partners to lead a comprehensive investigation into the die-off of multiple species in Ischua Creek and any other potential environmental impacts,” DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton said.
“We are advising the public not to fish or recreate in the affected area while DEC takes all actions necessary to ensure protection of public health and the environment.”
State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said while there has been a serious impact on fish and wildlife, “there is no indication of any impact to public drinking water supplies.”
State and local health officials will continue to work with DEC to monitor the potential discharge into the creek, McDonald said.
“We will continue to monitor these developments and provide guidance when more information is available as protecting the health of New Yorkers remains our top priority,” the health commissioner said.
The DEC began receiving reports of a large fish in Ischua Creek in Franklinville on Tuesday. Field teams were dispatched to monitor water quality and assess the impact to aquatic life. Multiple species of dead aquatic life were observed downstream from Franklinville.
The SEC statement said, “At this time, there is no indication of impacts to public drinking water supplies. Local water systems have been notified and are taking precautionary monitoring steps. Agencies are fully evaluating any potential impacts to private wells downstream of the affected areas.
“Out of an abundance of caution, the public is advised to avoid all contact with Ischua Creek downstream of Franklinville, including recreational uses such as fishing/fish consumption, boating, and swimming, until further notice.”
DEC is also asking the public to report unusual fish and wildlife observations to DEC Fisheries at fwfish9@dec.ny.gov.
In addition, “People should limit contact with dead wildlife and keep domestic animals and livestock away from the creek. If removal of carcasses is deemed necessary, as always when handling dead animals, wear disposable gloves, a mask, and eye protection. Avoid direct contact with the carcass or carcass fluids by using a shovel and washing hands and clothing immediately after with soap and hot water.”
Gov. Kathy Hochul said in a statement that when she heard of the environmental impact on Ischua Creek, she directed the DEC to do a thorough investigation and the state Department of Health to monitor the risk to public health.
“We are committed to ensuring our local communities and the environment they depend on are protected and are taking all appropriate action as the investigation continues,” the governor said. “Steps must be taken to ensure accountability and to prevent such a significant incident from ever happening again.”
Franklinville Town Supervisor Catie Campbell told WKBW News that town officials are actively monitoring the situation in coordination with state agencies.
“I know this is currently raising some concerns in the community,” Campbell told WKBW. “While the DEC is doing their job, we strongly advise avoiding the area affected until more information is available. We appreciate the community’s patience and understanding as the situation continues to be addressed. The town remains dedicated to supporting the DEC’s efforts,” the supervisor said.
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