Fisheries management teams investigate a number of fish kills each year. In 1996 alone, biologists examined 18 individual kills. Most of these kills are the result of natural phenomena; however, the cause of every kill is important to note as it may be possible to avoid similar water quality problems in the future. If the kill is the result of negligence it is also the responsibility of biologists to determine who or what is responsible and determine the extent of the person's responsibility. Responsible parties must make restitution for fish loses.

Reports of a fish kill launch an extensive investigation by fisheries management staff.

Whenever possible, the cause of the kill must be identified and the problem corrected.