PFAS Contamination Advisory – The state issued an advisory due to PFAS contamination in Congamond Lake, recommending limited consumption of locally caught fish due to health concerns, although swimming is deemed safe.
The state has issued an advisory concerning PFAS contamination in Congamond Lake, where it has been recommended that individuals limit their consumption of fish caught from this location to no more than once a week. This advisory is due to elevated levels of PFAS (Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) found in fish tissues, which can accumulate these chemicals known for their persistence in the environment and potential health risks.
However, the advisory specifies that swimming in the lake does not pose a significant risk from PFAS contamination. PFAS are known as “forever chemicals” because they do not break down easily in the environment, and they can have various adverse health effects including but not limited to, impacts on liver function, immune system, and developmental effects.
The recommendation to limit fish consumption is based on health-based consumption limits set for PFAS, particularly PFOS (Perfluorooctanesulfonic acid), which has been detected in significant levels in the fish from Congamond Lake. This measure aims to reduce potential exposure through dietary intake, which could otherwise lead to health issues over time.
The presence of PFAS in such environments often results from industrial applications, like firefighting foams, or from products that use these chemicals for their non-stick, water-resistant properties. Efforts to monitor and manage such contamination continue to evolve, with public advisories being one of the methods to inform and protect public health.