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.

This draft advisory updates and replaces a 1987 state fish advisory for Clear Lake, and expands the advisory to include Bear Creek and Cache Creek. The draft advisory recommends that no one should eat any fish or shellfish from Bear Creek, and limits fish consumption in other areas.

OEHHA accepted public comments on a draft fish advisory concerning elevated levels of mercury in fish in Tomales Bay in Marin County.