Algae in question?
The first Facebook publications concerning this case aroused comments, sometimes violent, from Internet users who did not ask the question of whether the farmer is, or not, really responsible for this situation.
The city of Antoing, and more particularly its alderman Grégory Bocquillon – which has in particular water and agriculture in its attributions – was worried and made it possible to make some details on this subject on its Facebook page. He writes in particular:
“Following our recent interventions, conducted in collaboration with the competent environmental services and the SPW Navigable Ways, analyzes were carried out concerning the presence of whitish stains observed on the surface of the channel. These would be due to the natural decomposition of algae, a phenomenon amplified by heat and lack of circulation of water. The farmer.
We also learn that the SPW Ways Navigables decided to open certain valves in order to oxygenate water to thwart the problem. Which is not really new; The fact that water circulates very little in the rods promoting this phenomenon and eutrophication resulting in a significant proliferation of aquatic plants, in particular algae, which can suffocate the environment.
The farmer did not get out of business …
At this stage of the investigation, the farmer pointed out the finger therefore seems to be out of the case with regard to direct pollution of the river.
No particular mortality was also observed in fish and fauna frequenting the site, depending on the alderman we were able to contact by phone.
On the other hand, where the farmer concerned undeniably failed, it was when he went to draw water directly from the channel in order to fill his sprayer.
This practice is strictly prohibited, precisely to prevent any risk of water contamination.
These specific facts were brought to the attention of the competent authorities and will be the subject of an investigation during which the farmer will probably have to answer for his actions. He will also have to justify his presence on a portion of roads which is (in principle) prohibited for motor vehicles (not authorized).
In short, he should not get out of it so good account, then, no need to add to the networks …