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The DEC reported to us that last week they began investigating downstream spill impacts, collecting samples of water for glyphosate analysis. Results from that analysis are pending, says the DEC.
Last Wednesday (June 15) evening, a tractor trailer rolled over on I81 Northbound on a bridge that passes over the Tioughnioga River spilling pesticides and vegetable oil. New York State Police did arrest the driver for DWI.
In a press release from the State DEC, during the initial investigations they found a number of deceased crayfish near the 81 bridge. From the Port Watson Bridge downstream, there was no further evidence of mortality.
Friday afternoon, the DEC received several calls from residents downstream near Marathon reporting large numbers of deceased fish and DEC biologists visited the site for further investigation.
The DEC says there were several hundred deceased fish consisting primarily of white suckers, with some gamefish such as walleye and smallmouth bass present as well. It appears it took time for the dead fish to rise to the surface and float downstream.
The fish were in poor condition and beyond any diagnostic value, the DEC reports.
The City of Cortland proactively closed Yaman Park beach located near the spill site as a precautionary measure.
The DEC does encourage anglers to visit alternate fishing opportunities in Central New York, pending river water sample results.
For more information on other fishing locations visit: https://www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/7936.html.
DEC’s investigation is ongoing.
The driver and owner of the tractor trailer may face additional charges pending the completion of the DEC investigation.
Tractor Trailer Overturns On I81 NB Spilling Vegetable Oil and Pesticides; Driver Arrested For DWI
