In fact, a recent study sponsored by the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals showed that people who eat fish from waterways where fish advisories have been issued and who have limited their consumption show no ill health effects. Dr. Jimmy Guidry, State Health Officer, said he is pleased that additional steps are now being taken to alert citizens who consume fish about the health risks posed by mercury. These warning signs will do just that. Our fish advisories have helped spread the word about waterways where fish with high levels of mercury have been found, and the addition of warning signs placed at boat launches will only serve to enhance these on-going efforts. Dale Givens, Secretary of the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality, adds that Louisiana is not alone in experiencing mercury contamination of its waterways.
Mercury enters the environment both naturally and through man-made sources.
Some examples include natural volcanic eruptions and the incineration of some waste materials, such as the burning of coal and garbage. DEQ is conducting continuing research to determine how best to control this problem. The mercury advisories are displayed along the following waterways in Louisiana. These advisories are not mandatory and are issued only as a precaution in the interests of public health and safety. Copyright 1990-2001 Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality.