Why Does The Rock River Stink Right Now?
People around Rockford have been asking a very simple question lately: Why does the Rock River stink?
That’s what someone was asking in the Rockford subreddit, specifically complaining about a strong smell near the former Machesney Park Mall, with other folks adding that they’ve gotten a strong whiff of it too
One person said they could smell it while night fishing at Sportscore, and another said they were so concerned about the gas-like odor that they called Nicor.
READ MORE: Why Does Rockford Smell So Bad Sometimes?
Upstream Blue-Green Algae Blooms Uncovered as Stench Source
Turns out there’s an explanation coming upstream in Beloit. WKOW reports Rock County Public Health says the smell is caused by blue-green algae blooms and that right now is the peak season for them to grow.
When they die and decompose, they release hydrogen sulfide, which can produce a smell similar to rotten eggs or sewage, which would perfectly explain why it smells like chemicals or gas.
READ MORE: Is the Rock River the Most Polluted River in Illinois?
Wisconsin DNR Safety Warnings for Rock River Water Contact
The Wisconsin DNR says not to go in the water when algae blooms are visible, and never to swallow untreated surface water.
At least now we know why the Rock River smells so bad. Not that the reason makes it any better because, you know, it still stinks.
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Gallery Credit: KATELYN LEBOFF