Mercury in Fish and Wildlife

Mercury in the environment has been a problem for many years. The Division of Fish, Wildlife and Marine Resources is concerned about the impact of mercury on the fish and wildlife resource and on human consumers. While the Department of Health is responsible for protecting human health, the Division monitors and studies mercury in the environment. Mercury rapidly bioaccumulates up the food chain, and can concentrate in large predatory fish, particularly in acidic waters. A number of links to specific mercury studies or projects are listed to the left under "Links to Programs and Projects."

During the 1970s, in compliance with the Clean Water Act, mercury was removed from most wastewater and industrial effluents. More recently efforts have shifted to reducing mercury from air emissions, since atmospheric deposition is also a source of mercury in the environment. Links to mercury projects related to air and water pollution, pollution prevention, hazardous waste management and education can be found on the Department's mercury management page. Information on mercury in aquatic biota can be found under the Bureau of Habitat's Rome and Hale Creek Field Stations.