The “Findings of the 2006 to 2008 Regional Ambient Fish Tissue Program in Nebraska” is written to satisfy the federal fiscal years 2006 to 2008 State of Nebraska-EPA Agreement, as well as provide information to other governmental agencies, professional organizations, and most importantly to the general public.
Fish tissue sampling in Nebraska was initiated in the late 1970s, primarily to identify potential pollution concerns throughout the State. Sampling consisted of collecting whole fish samples from major rivers at or near the bottom of their drainage area. In the late 1980s, along with the identification of pollutants, sampling was conducted to determine if there may be a public health concern. Fillet samples were then collected and analyzed as this is the portion of a fish that is most-often consumed. Waters heavily utilized by anglers were generally targeted.
To inform the public about health risk concerns identified, Nebraska began issuing fish consumption advisories in 1990. Currently, Nebraska has 71 state-issued advisories. The primary contaminants of concern in fish tissue in Nebraska and most other states are mercury and polychlorinated biphenyl compounds (PCBs). The EPA has issued a nationwide fish consumption advisory regarding mercury in all fish species. Women of child-bearing age and children under 15 years of age are the population most sensitive to the effects of mercury.
To view a simpler summary chart and map of current fish advisories in Nebraska, go to Fish Consumption Advisories |