The Lac de Barbençon, in Beaumont, is the scene of a sad spectacle. Carp, pike, minnows… Thousands of fish float on the surface. Cleaned Wednesday, the edges of the lakes are once more invaded.
A desolation for residents and walkers: “This was unexpected, I’ve never seen this and it hurts my heart, especially anglers” is surprised Leo, a resident.
The economic consequences of this carnage are direct: the fishing pond loses its fauna and the neighboring restaurant has had to close its terrace. The atmosphere is not there for customers, because in addition to the vision, there is the smell: “We are used to having a lot of people who are happy, who meet here to see the most beautiful village in Wallonia, and in the end, we have nobody today. We’ll have to work only with the interior” regrets Morgane, waitress.
The lake’s water regulation systems have, in fact, been broken down for years. There’s too much sludge, not enough water and the high temperatures probably played a role. “The lake has a very reduced depth because it is lined with mud, so in the event of strong heat, the fish lack oxygen, and this is what happens“explains Bernard, a local resident.
The lake is private, but work is planned to repair existing systems. Bruno Lambert, the mayor of Beaumont, is firm: “We have an agreement for the fall, failing which, the companies will be mandated, if necessary requisitioned, to get the work done. It goes without saying that the invoice will go to the owners of the site” did he declare.
Another track might be that of a bacterium. Analyzes will be carried out to find out the origin of this disaster in this beautiful corner of Wallonia.
