Things aren't going swimmingly for Carp in local waters.

Things aren't going swimmingly for Carp in local waters.

Large numbers of the dead fish are washing up along the shore of Lake Simcoe and unconfirmed reports say the die off is also starting to affect carp in Lake Couchiching.

A message on the telephone at the Midhurst office of the Ministry of Natural Resources says the department is currently monitoring a die off in Lake Simcoe and offers the following information for those dealing with carcasses.

"For assistance in the removal of dead fish from shoreline please contact a private dead stock removal company who can assist for a cost."

The ministry spokesperson was out of the Midhurst office until July 2.

With calls coming in from residents Mayor Bill Duffy is frustrated with the response.

"The public already know the fish are dying. They want somebody to do something," said Duffy. "

That somebody turns out to be the County of Simcoe. The County is implementing special provisions to help residents removing dead fish from their property.

Fish matter will be accepted free of charge during the die off at the Mara Waste Transfer Station located on County Road 169 during regular hours.

An additional five bags of fish material will also be accepted at curbside on regular scheduled pick up days. Fish must be double bagged and can't weigh more than 20 kilograms (44 pounds). The County is also reminding residents to take precautions when handling the dead fish.

As his level of frustration grows with the MNR and Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority Duffy is happy with the County's decision.

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"As far as Lake Simcoe (region conservation authority) and the MNR are concerned they have been absolutely no help," said Duffy, noting he'd made several calls Monday and hadn't received satisfactory answers. "I'm very glad the County has stepped up to help us here."