AN investigation has been launched after reports a slurry spill could have killed hundreds of fish in a Co Antrim river.
Reports of the water pollution incident on the Crumlin River, which is known for its wild brown trout, as well as dollaghan and salmon fry, were raised on Sunday.
It is understood that slurry is believed to have been seen in the upstream of the river.
The Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) has confirmed the fish kill and said it is investigating.
"At 10:56 on Sunday 12 February 2023, NIEA received a water pollution report indicating that there was slurry in the Crumlin River upstream of Crumlin, Co Antrim," a spokesperson said.
"NIEA deployed a water quality inspector to the area to confirm the report and to assess the environmental impact.
"A fish kill has now been confirmed by the NIEA and a joint investigation with DAERA Inland Fisheries remains ongoing."
But local anglers believe hundreds of fish have been killed.
A spokesperson for Crumlin and District Angling Association said volunteers had been observing the river to try to establish the extent of the kill.
"We observed dead fish where the water is starting to clear," he said.
"We are fearful that, as the water clears downstream we will potentially find more tomorrow as the visibility improves.
"Again if anyone observes this please do let us know."
