Last year whirling disease was causing problems for some locally stocked ponds, as many bodies of water were not stocked out of fear of spreading the disease, which causes certain species of trout to swim in circles until they starve.

Those precautionary measures seem to have paid off, as the annual Len Thompson Kids Can Catch Youth Fishing day is back on Saturday for its 14th year.

Chair for the Lacombe Fish and Game Association Bernie Street says Alberta Fish and Game were able to find the source of the whirling disease, and are able to stock their ponds once again.

”Alberta Fish and Game has determined that they can’t just stop it by not stocking the fish. They’ve found that some of the hatcheries were contaminated, so now that they have that straightened away, they’ve got good fish to give away.”

Street says they are unsure if our ponds were even affected by the disease that only affects fish and is not harmful to humans.

“We’re not entirely sure because we didn’t have any fish put in, and we’re not even sure if there is any contaminated fish in there. Water from that pond can go by our creek into the Battle River, and that’s what they were a little worried about.”

About 1100 fish were stocked in the two ponds here in town, with an additional 300 fish being added to Len Thompson during the Youth Fishing event Saturday.

Fishing gear and instructions will be provided, but they encourage you to bring your own gear. There will also be free food and refreshments for all participates. Kids of all ages are encouraged to come out, with anyone 16 years of age or older requiring a valid fishing license.

The Len Thompson 14th annual Kids Can Catch Youth Fishing day goes from 10 am until 2 pm on Saturday, June 2nd.