The Nizhny Novgorod Ministry of Ecology is inspecting Lake Yagodnoye after a mass fish die-off.

      On July 20, 2026, at 17:30, the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Nizhny Novgorod Region began an investigation into the pollution of Lake Yagodnoye. As reported on the agency's social media, on July 20, specialists along with employees of the analytical laboratory of the State Budgetary Institution of Nizhny Novgorod "Ecology of the Region" went to the site. They inspected the lake and the surrounding area, as well as took water samples from the lake itself and an unnamed stream that flows into it. During the inspection along the shore, dead fish were found. A stagnant smell, similar to that of sewage, emanated from the water. Near the stream, the smell was even stronger, and in some places, the stream itself had already become marshy. According to preliminary versions, the pollution initially occurred in the stream, after which it spread to the lake. To rule out possible accidents in the sewage networks, specialists examined the adjacent territories, but found no signs of emergency spills. It is preliminarily considered that the cause of the pollution could be unauthorized discharge of wastewater from vehicles. Specialists are currently awaiting the results of laboratory tests of the water samples. After receiving them, measures will be taken within the framework of current legislation. A similar situation previously occurred in the Bolshie Boldino district, where an investigation was initiated on the Salya River near the village of Apraksino following a mass fish die-off. Specialists also took water samples, and the materials from the inspection were sent to Rosprirodnadzor. NIA "Nizhny Novgorod" has channels on Telegram and MAX. Subscribe to stay updated on major events, exclusive materials, and timely information. Copyright © 1999—2025 NIA "Nizhny Novgorod". When reprinting, a hyperlink to NIA "Nizhny Novgorod" is mandatory. This resource may contain materials 18+.