For the first time, a conservation group has been given permission by 2 separate state agencies to post signs to educate the public about fish consumption advisories.
After many meetings, emails, and lots of important conversations…. Coosa Riverkeeper is excited to announce that with permission from Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and Alabama Department of Public Health, they are posting fish consumption advisory signs at these 5 boat ramps on Lay Lake.
According to our 2013 survey of subsistence fishermen, we found 91% of fishermen would heed fish consumption advisories but only 6% know what they actually are. In Spring 2019, you’ll start to see more Fish Guide signs posted at other important fishing spots around the Coosa River. We will also be posting signs at our Swim Guide sampling sites next year (pending approval from some key places).
We’re working so hard because our data shows more fishermen and their families need to understand the advisories themselves, what PCB/methylmercury advisories mean for their health, and how they can reduce their exposure. Our goal with the Coosa River Fish Guide program is to help you better understand the 34 fish consumption advisories on the Coosa and what they mean for your health!