Anoxia occurs during warm weather and often follows the smallest tides in the tide cycle.
It is more common on the north shore than the south shore, where there is greater tidal activity. Anoxia can last for a couple of days or a couple of weeks depending upon the amount of decaying material, the wind and the tides.
Anoxic conditions have been reported in a number of areas already this summer including portions of Brackley Bay, Covehead Bay, Barbara Weit River, Indian River, Bentic Cove, Southwest River, Hunter-Clyde River, Wheatley River, Chapel Creek, Hills (Mill) River, Cardigan River, Trout/Stanley River (including Founds River and Granville Creek), Hope River, Anderson’s Creek and Montrose River.
Government is working with farmers, landowners, industry, communities and the public to improve the quality of water on Prince Edward Island, said Brown.
“All Islanders share a collective responsibility for protecting and enhancing the quality of water on Prince Edward Island,” he said.
People can report anoxic conditions in estuaries by contacting the Department of Environment, Energy and Forestry at 368-5000.
