Mass fish deaths reported in Linlithgow’s historic loch

An inquiry has commenced following the discovery of hundreds of deceased fish in Linlithgow’s historic loch. Visual evidence from the loch depicts a significant quantity of dead fish situated in the water adjacent to outlet pipes originating from the neighboring Kingsfield estate. The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (Sepa) reported its presence at the location on Tuesday, subsequent to the finding on Monday night. The environmental regulatory body is attempting to ascertain whether pollution was responsible for this extensive mortality event. Tom Lambert, secretary for the Linlithgow Loch Fishery, informed BBC Scotland News that he had never witnessed such an alarming scene. He stated that, despite the loch being stocked with rainbow trout, the incident had resulted in the death of a substantial shoal of roach, a species native to the loch. “A toxic substance must have come down the pipe as it’s killed all the young roach sheltering at the outflow,” he stated. He added, “A lot of members of the public don’t realise if they put things down drains it can end up in the loch.” Additionally, some of the fish were observed on the grass beyond the pipe’s discharge point. “They were trying to escape the toxic substance and have ended up on the grass, it’s terrible,” he commented. Mr. Lambert subsequently navigated a boat to the center of the loch, where he discovered additional deceased roach. “I feel very sad and disappointed that this has happened,” he expressed. He continued, “This has been happening for many years, not as big a fish kill as this but nothing seems to be done about it.” He further remarked, “They haven’t diverted the pipes. They don’t want to spend the money so it’s just convenient to have them pouring straight into the loch.” The loch holds designation as a site of special interest and serves as a significant tourist attraction. Linlithgow Palace, situated adjacent to the loch, is recognized as the birthplace of Mary, Queen of Scots, and James V. It has been characterized as Scotland’s most distinguished surviving late medieval secular edifice. Mr. Lambert requested that Historic Environment Scotland, the site’s proprietor, dispatch a ranger to clear the fish; however, he was informed that Sepa had advised leaving them in place until the conclusion of their investigation. A spokesperson for Historic Environment Scotland stated: “We continue to work closely with Sepa as they undertake an investigation.” The spokesperson added, “Our rangers are monitoring any further changes and, as a precaution, we would advise members of the public to avoid the area in question while further investigations take place.” Apprehensions have now arisen regarding the potential poisoning of other wildlife consuming the fish, which remained present on Friday. A Sepa spokesperson confirmed: “We received reports of a number of dead fish found in Linlithgow Loch on 11 November and officers attended the site the following day. We continue to work with partners as we investigate potential causes for the incident.” A spokesperson for Scottish Water commented: “We have found no issues with any of our infrastructure in the area but will assist Sepa in any investigation that is carried out.”