A scene from the rescue (Image: SPU)

Amid worries that coming rains could wash them away to dangerous sewer pipes or sad lives as an invasive species in Lake Washington, the Stevens Elementary goldfish have been rescued by Seattle Public Utilities.

Friday, the department thanked CHS and the many readers who brought attention to the curious little wonder of the “secret” underground pond in the school’s catch basin:

SPU first learned of the goldfish from the Capitol Hill Seattle blog, which reported that the fish had become a “curious kind of campus mascot,” and several community members who reached out to inquire about the possibility of a rescue operation. While SPU was glad to see the fish faring well in the catch basin, it was necessary to relocate them as soon as possible.

SPU Senior Environmental Compliance Inspector Eric Autry with the rescued fish (Image: SPU)

“When fall rains come, these goldfish would likely be washed away into Lake Washington and may not survive the trip down the pipes,” SPU Senior Environmental Compliance Inspector Eric Autry said. “Believe it or not, goldfish are an invasive species, he continued, “and we want to prevent the introduction of invasive species into our local water bodies. Plus, we could use some company around the office.”

SPU made the rescue Friday morning.

The fish were transported to SPU’s Ballard Operations Building where they were reported getting acclimated “to their new, safe, clean, and loving home.”

SPU says it is likely the goldfish were dumped in the catch basin by an owner who could no longer care for them.

This morning we rescued two little goldfish from a storm water catch basin and successfully relocated them to their new, clean, safe home. Thanks for the heads-up @CHSfeed @jseattle @GordonWerner ! Read the story here: https://t.co/I1rvc0NGOz pic.twitter.com/d9FRrVG1sL

— Seattle Public Utilities (@SeattleSPU) October 19, 2018

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