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Elkhorn Slough

Advisory based on mercury and PCBs.

This advisory applies to the Elkhorn Slough State Marine Conservation Area and not the greater watershed region.

For information relating to biotoxins from harmful algal blooms (HABs) that may be found in California water bodies, see below.

Waterbody

Elkhorn Slough

County: 
Monterey

Downloads

Women 18-49 Years and Children 1-17 Years

7 servings a week
Or
3 servings a week
Or
1 servings a week
DO NOT EAT

Women 50 Years and Older and Men 18 Years and Older

7 servings a week
Or
4 servings a week
Or
1 servings a week

What is a serving?

What is a Serving?

 

The recommended serving of fish is about the size and thickness of your hand. Give children smaller servings. For small fish species, several individual fish may make up a single serving.

Preparing and Cooking Fish

  • For fish, eat only the skinless fillet.
  • For shellfish, eat only the meat.
  • Some chemicals are higher in the skin, fat, and guts.
  • Remove and throw away the skin before cooking.
  • Cook thoroughly and allow the juices to drain away.

 

The advisory downloads for Elkhorn Slough were updated on 08-03-16 to reflect that "Asian clam" refers to Corbicula species.

Resources related to Biotoxins and Harmful Algal Blooms

Estuaries can have a mix of both freshwater and marine biotoxins from harmful algal blooms. For freshwater biotoxins, OEHHA recommends that you check the California harmful algal bloom (HAB) portal to see if a bloom has been reported at this water body and learn healthy water habits to protect yourself, your family, and your pets during your visit. For marine biotoxins, check California Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Health Advisories for Finfish, Shellfish, and Crustaceans, or call California Department of Public Health’s Shellfish Biotoxin Information Line (800-553-4133) for current advisories and closures.