#U_Lakes Lake aeration during the ice-covered period: why it is vital for aquatic life

As part of the UrbanLakes - Cross-border synergy for blue ecosystem preservation (U_Lakes) project, funded by the European Union through the Interreg Next VI-A Romania-Ukraine 2021–2027 programme, we inform you about important seasonal measures aimed at protecting urban water bodies.

During winter, when lakes are covered by ice for a long time, urban water bodies become particularly vulnerable. Ice and snow significantly limit oxygen exchange between the water and the air, slowing down natural processes and reducing oxygen levels. As a result, the risk of so-called fish kill increases, threatening fish and other aquatic organisms.

To prevent these negative effects, aeration holes are created in the ice.

They play a crucial role by:
- allowing oxygen to enter the water;
- releasing harmful gases accumulated beneath the ice;
- maintaining suitable conditions for fish and other hydrobionts to survive the winter.

Why is aeration necessary?
Even when a lake looks calm and stable on the surface, significant ecological stress may occur beneath the ice. Timely aeration helps preserve biodiversity, maintain ecological balance, and prevent irreversible damage to aquatic ecosystems.

This publication has been produced with the financial support of the European Union. Its contents are the sole responsibility of the Executive Committee of the Ivano-Frankivsk City Council and do not necessarily reflect the official position of the European Union or the management structures of the Interreg VI-A NEXT 2021-2027 Romania-Ukraine Program. 

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