Politics & Government
Frog Kill at Chesterfield Central Park Lake Unexpected
Park employees sprayed copper sulfate on the lake, which is normally a safe algae deterrent. Hundreds of bullfrog tadpoles were dead the next morning.
Thomas McCarthy, Chesterfield’s Parks and Recreation Director, told Patch that his work crews had sprayed copper sulfate on the to control algae.
“Traditionally, it does not create a kill,” he said.
Copper sulfate is a chemical widely used as a herbicide, fungicide and pesticide.
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McCarthy said the lake is at least two feet lower than normal due to the drought. He’s concerned that lower water levels and extreme heat may be a factor in stressing the wildlife population in and around the lake.
“I’m glad that people are concerned. It may sound corny, but we’re stewards of the parkland and the wildlife,” he said. McCarthy said he immediately visited the lake after hearing about the dead frogs to see for himself. “I walked around the entire lake.”
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McCarthy said he also talked to the park supervisor to find out what happened.
“We followed the regular protocols. They did say they’re having a greater amount of fish and frogs dying due to the heat,” he told Patch. “Small lakes can turn over because of the high temperatures,” he said.
McCarthy called the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to look at the lake and make sure there are no further issues. He said residents with concerns about the parks should not hesitate to call him at (636) 812-9503.
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