What to know about the Chattahoochee River fish kill

An "unprecedented" fish kill along the Chattahoochee River has sparked investigations and raised concerns about the precious waterway's health.

Catch up quick: City and state angencies are investigating why a massive number of fish washed up dead along a 20-mile stretch of the Chattahoochee downstream of Peachtree Creek.

The latest: Chattahoochee Riverkeeper Jason Ulseth told Fox 5 that warm and polluted stormwater runoff from recent heavy rains likely caused oxygen levels in the river to drop, suffocating the fish.

• Atlanta Department of Watershed Management commissioner Greg Eyerly told the Atlanta City Council Utilities Committee on Tuesday that his team was preparing an official report for state regulators.

State of play: Ulseth told 11 Alive that recent rains have helped restore the river's health.

While the fish kill appears to have been concentrated south of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area, the following tips will help keep you and your loved ones healthy:

🐶 Pets: Watch where your pets are playing and what they're drinking. Keep them away from any dead fish.

• Ulseth and Eyerly reported seeing a "black sludge" along the banks in some areas. Steer clear of that sludge.

🧫 Bacteria levels: Check bacteria levels along the river.

• A good rule of thumb: Avoid contact with cloudy water.

🏊 Avoid swimming until authorities give the all-clear, especially if you have any open cuts or injuries.

• The Riverkeeper has a Chattahoochee swimming guide with good tips.

The bottom line: The Chattahoochee's history is an inspiring story of how people can save a precious and resilient river.

• The past week's fish kill was a reminder that the work, and the story, are not yet finished.