Mercury and Fish (Southeast)
A new study from the U.S. Geological Survey shows that scientists found mercury contamination in every fish sampled in 291 streams around the country. One-quarter of fish sampled exceeded mercury levels set to protect humans who eat average amounts of fish; two-thirds exceeded mercury levels of concern set by U.S. EPA for fish-eating mammals. The main source of mercury contamination in U.S. waters is mercury emitted into the atmosphere and then deposited into waters by rain and snow – this mercury comes primarily burning fossil fuels for power plants and vehicles. Mercury can also come from mining activities and consumer products such as older thermometers and thermostats.
Viewer Tip: Some of the highest mercury levels in fish were found in “blackwater” streams in North and South Carolina, Georgia, Florida and Louisiana. If you eat fish caught by family and friends in your local lakes, rivers or coastal areas, check local advisories for advice about consuming fish safely. If no advice is available, EPA recommends eating up to six ounces (one average meal) per week of fish you catch from local waters, but don’t consume any other fish during that week.
Get fish advisories in your area: www.epa.gov/waterscience/fish/states.htm.
Seasons: Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter
(Sources: U.S. Department of the Interior. “News Release: Study Reveals Mercury Contamination in Fish Nationwide.” August 19, 2009. www.doi.gov/news/09_News_Releases/081909.html.; U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. “Fish Advisories: Basic Information.” http://www.epa.gov/waterscience/fish/basic.htm)
