Department of the Environment provides update on Fish Kill in the Belize River Valley area

INVESTIGATION INTO THE FISH KILL IN THE BELIZE RIVER VALLEY AREA

Belmopan, Belize. August 7, 2026: The public is hereby informed that, as part of the ongoing investigation into the fish kill in the Belize River Valley area, the Department of the Environment (DOE) has conducted visual observations and water quality assessments from near Banana Bank, upstream of Santander Farms, to the Burrell Boom Village bridge. Significant fish mortality and changes in water conditions were observed particularly along the approximately 17.5-mile stretch between Isabella Bank and Grace Bank. The Department is also assessing discharge points and other activities along and within the vicinity of the river as part of its investigation into the possible source or sources of the event.

On-site water quality testing and sampling have been conducted at various locations along the river. Preliminary field results recorded extremely low levels of dissolved oxygen in areas where significant fish mortality was observed, together with elevated conductivity, chlorophyll-a and turbidity at certain locations. These conditions can adversely affect aquatic life. Samples have been submitted for laboratory analysis to assist in determining the cause of the observed conditions.

As part of the ongoing investigation, the DOE has also collected water samples from the Santander Farms drainage system and at locations downstream for chemical analysis. Fish and sediment samples are also being collected and analysed to assist in determining the cause of the fish mortality and whether contaminants may have contributed to the event.

The Department is additionally reviewing satellite imagery from before and during the event to assess changes in water conditions, land-clearing activities and other factors that may assist in identifying potential contributing sources. Investigations and assessments are also being conducted in relation to other developments, activities and potential discharge points within the wider area.

At this stage, the Department has not determined the source or responsible party associated with the fish kill. The investigation remains ongoing, and any determination will be based on the results of laboratory analyses and the totality of the scientific and technical evidence collected.

The precautionary advisory issued by the Department on August 5, 2026, remains in effect. The public is therefore advised not to consume fish or other aquatic resources from the affected areas and not to use untreated river water for drinking, cooking, food preparation, livestock or pets until further notice. This advisory applies to untreated water taken directly from the river and does not apply to treated potable water supplied by Belize Water Services Limited.

The DOE continues to coordinate with relevant government agencies and other authorities in monitoring the situation and advancing the investigation. The public will be informed as laboratory results and other verified findings become available.

The Department of the Environment remains committed to protecting Belize’s environment, safeguarding our natural resources and public health, and ensuring that all potential sources are thoroughly investigated and that appropriate action is taken where the evidence establishes a breach of Belize’s environmental laws.

END

For More Information Contact: Anthony Mai, Chief Environmental Officer
Department of the Environment
doe.ceo@environment.gov.bz
+(501) 822-2819

The post Department of the Environment provides update on Fish Kill in the Belize River Valley area appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.