Phoenix (January 31, 2020) – The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ), in association with the Arizona Game and Fish Department (AGFD), is issuing a fish consumption advisory for black crappie caught from Santa Fe Lake in Coconino County. This advisory is based on recent analysis of fish tissue data that indicate elevated levels of mercury.

ADEQ recommends that adults limit consumption of black crappie from Santa Fe Lake to 2.5 ounces (uncooked weight) per week and children 12 years of age and younger limit consumption to 2 ounces (uncooked weight) per month. Santa Fe Lake is home to a variety of fish. During the spring and summer, AGFD stocks the lake with rainbow trout, which can be eaten in unlimited amounts.

Generally, contaminant levels found in water are significantly lower than those found in fish tissue. Therefore, fishing, bird watching, swimming and other recreational activities at the lake are not affected by this advisory and are encouraged for enjoying the great outdoors.

Fish are an excellent source of protein and can be an important part of a healthy, diverse diet as they are low in saturated fat. The American Heart Association recommends people eat at least two fish or seafood meals every week. The public health recommendations in this advisory are based on frequent and long-term consumption of fish, not infrequent or occasional fish meals. AGFD and ADEQ maintain a Green Light Fisheries program listing fish species from specific waters that may be consumed without limits.

Interactive e-Map for Green Light Fisheries and Fish Consumption Advisories | View >

Background

Fish Consumption Advisory: Recommends either limited or no consumption of fish when ADEQ determines contaminant levels in fish tissues taken from an Arizona waterway exceed state health standards; advisories do not apply to commercial fish sold in markets.

Pollutant of Concern: Mercury in the environment can come from various sources and cause numerous health problems such as damage to the central nervous system, depending on the exposure; infants and pregnant or nursing mothers are considered most at risk to possible health effects; fish can accumulate elevated levels of mercury when larger fish consume smaller fish and insects | More Information >

Arizona Game and Fish webpage for Fish Consumption Advisories | View >

EPA-FDA Advice about Eating Fish and Shellfish | View >

Contact

ADEQ Public Information Officer | 602-771-2215 (Office) | 602-540-8072 (Cell) | Email >

Arizona Game and Fish Department | Arizona Game and Fish Department | 623.236.7392 (Office) | Email >