Fish

OEHHA accepted public comments on a draft fish advisory concerning elevated levels of mercury in fish in Trinity Lake and selected water bodies in the Trinity River watershed in Trinity County.

OEHHA has finalized a fish advisory concerning elevated levels of mercury in fish in Clear Lake, Cache Creek and Bear Creek (Lake, Yolo and Colusa counties).  This region has an abundance of naturally occurring mercury as a result of both natural processes and mining activity and some of the mercury has worked its way into the fish.

Studies found elevated levels of mercury, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and other contaminants in several species of fish from ten reservoirs in Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, and Santa Clara counties.

OEHHA has finalized a fish advisory concerning elevated levels of mercury in fish in Tomales Bay in Marin County.  “With the exception of sharks, fish caught in Tomales Bay can be part of a healthy, balanced diet. But the public – and particularly women of childbearing age and children – should monitor and limit their fish consumption to avoid excessive exposure to mercury,” OEHHA Director Dr. Joan Denton said.

Fish are still recommended as part of a healthy, balanced diet. But anglers and their families – especially women of childbearing age and children – should be aware of the presence of mercury in fish from Lake Natoma and the lower American River, and follow our guidelines for safe consumption.