CANVEY lake could be saved from the annual scourge of blue algae and Koi Herpesvirus after new equipment was purchased by the Environment Agency.

Every year hundreds of fish suffer and often die with fishing often suspended.

This year hundreds could be saved as the Environment Agency in East Anglia has bought specialist equipment to save fish in distress during dry spells.

Last year more than 100 fish perished after contracting a virus caused by falling oxygen levels. Blue algae, which kills marine life, has also been a persistent problem for the lake.

Environment Agency fisheries teams have bought a bank of equipment, including ten new aerators and eight handheld dissolved oxygen meters, which will be available on loan to angling clubs and fisheries across East Anglia to help if oxygen levels plummet as a result of warm weather.

As it gets hotter during the summer months, temperature increase, which lowers dissolved oxygen levels and causes fish to become distressed and struggle for air. Water levels may decrease and algae blooms can also become more of a risk, both of which can impact oxygen levels.

Dave Blackwell, leader of Canvey Town Council, which maintains the lake, said the council would definitely be looking at using the equipment.

He said: “Anything that helps is welcomed. We’ve had a problem this year with a dry winter and summer. Last year we had to close the whole lake because of blue algae and we are close to having ideal conditions for it again.

“Canvey West Marsh is usually full but it’s now down to the bottom. We do our best to keep Canvey Lake de-silted but with water coming off the roads it’s difficult.”

Mr Blackwell added: “This is a really good idea which I will certainly look into. The lake is very popular with anglers and it’s also ideal for families, especially during the summer holidays. It’s a delicate balance between fishing and protecting the wildlife though.”

Kye Jerrom, fisheries specialist for the Environment Agency in East Anglia, said: “We are delighted that we have been able to purchase these dissolved oxygen meters and aeration units thanks to fishing licence funding.

“We are preparing for a dry summer and potentially low water levels as we know these issues can impact fisheries and fishing, especially at lakes, and in extreme cases lead to fish deaths. We will loan this kit out to fisheries and angling clubs with potential water quality issues so they can monitor dissolved oxygen levels routinely, helping to prevent or prepare for fisheries incidents.”