Residents stunned by schools of dead fish in canal, as official reason falls flat

Goodyear, Arizona: Residents near a West Valley canal in Goodyear are raising concerns after discovering a troubling sight: dead fish strewn along the waterway. The alarming scene, accompanied by a strong odor, has left locals bewildered.

One local resident, told Arizona's Family that she was out walking her dog when she noticed the dead fish in the canal near Goodyear Community Park. "It is very disturbing," Lot remarked. "It doesn't sit well with me because I care about the environment and the animals."

Arizona’s Family spoke to the Roosevelt Irrigation District, which manages the canal and others across Maricopa County, and a representative explained that the phenomenon is linked to routine maintenance. Every year, the district drains canals for necessary repairs and upkeep. Efforts are made to steer fish to safety during the process, but unfortunately, some do not survive.

“We try to minimize the losses by gradually drying up the canals so fish can congregate in designated areas,” the representative stated. “But some losses are inevitable.”

The irrigation district emphasized that the current method is considered more environmentally friendly than alternatives like using chemicals to clean the canals.

Still, some residents believe there must be a better way. "It’s overwhelming," one said. "This many fish dying—it’s just unnecessary."

While the maintenance is vital for ensuring the canals remain functional, locals are urging the district to explore solutions that reduce fish fatalities. Suggestions include enhanced measures to relocate fish or alternatives that might prevent similar occurrences in the future.