State authorities are investigating a fish kill in Lake Kedron in the northern end of Peachtree City.

At least 1,000 gizzard shad, ranging from six to 18 inches in length, have been found dead, according to a written statement by the Wildlife Resources Division of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. But WRD biologists say there is little need for concern as the kill seems to be the result of natural causes.

“This is not a cause for alarm,” says WRD fisheries biologist Steve Schleiger. “The division has seen similar fish kills in other area lakes and ponds over the past several weeks and this kill appears to be natural processes at work.”

Biologists have determined that disease aggravated by spawning stress caused the Lake Kedron fish kill, the state agency reported, adding that parasites and disease-causing organisms are always present in natural systems.

At certain times of the year, particularly in the spring when fish are undergoing many stressful physiological changes associated with spawning, these disease agents cause weakened fish to become sick and cause some fish to die. But the vast majority of the fish in the lake do not become infected, or are able to overcome the disease.

“Spring fish kills are actually quite common on many bodies of water and range in severity from year to year,” says Schleiger. “Fish populations fluctuate, and when a particular species builds up to a high enough level, natural agents generally come into play and thin the population out.”

This kill may affect other fish in Lake Kedron and fish in Lake Peachtree may experience a similar type of situation. Biologists have tested the water quality on both lakes and both appear to be normal.

Anglers on both lakes are encouraged to check their catches carefully for disease or parasitism and to report any sightings of dead or dying fish by calling the WRD. Most of the fish found in Lake Kedron are healthy and studies have shown that very few fish diseases can be transferred to humans, according to reports. Fish that have been thoroughly cooked, smoked or frozen are safe to consume.

For information on the fish kill on Lake Kedron, phone 912-825-6151. To report a fish kill or pollution problem, phone 1-800-241-4113 at any time.

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