South Dakota Department of Health Issues New Fish Consumption Advisories Following Comprehensive Sampling
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 10, 2024
MEDIA CONTACT: Tia Kafka - DOHMedia@state.sd.us
South Dakota Department of Health Issues New Fish Consumption Advisories Following Comprehensive Sampling
PIERRE, SD – The South Dakota Department of Health (DOH), in partnership with the Department of Agriculture & Natural Resources (DANR) and Game, Fish & Parks (GFP), has completed its annual fish collection and sampling program. This joint effort aims to assess the safety of fish consumption in various water bodies across the state.
"Our commitment to public health and safety drives the annual fish sampling program,” said Department of Health Secretary, Melissa Magstadt. “The collaboration between the DOH, DANR, and GFP ensures that South Dakotans have the most up-to-date information regarding fish consumption advisories.”
The DOH encourages the public to stay informed about these advisories and take necessary precautions to ensure the health and well-being of themselves and their families. The recommended advisories are as follows:
- Reid Lake (Clark County) - 32”> Northern Pike advisory, in addition to the existing >23” Walleye advisory.
- Horseshoe Lake (Day County) - 18”> advisory on Walleye.
- Cottonwood Lake (Spink County) - 21”> advisory for Walleye.
These advisories are based on Mercury concentrations found in the fish samples and are aimed at providing the public with essential information to make informed decisions about their dietary choices. The mercury found in fish tissue is mostly from atmospheric deposition from sources outside of South Dakota.
“We encourage everyone to check the DOH website for the latest advisories and take necessary precautions when enjoying locally caught fish," said Magstadt.
The department is rolling this out statewide to all offices and partnering with the Department of Social Services to provide additional training and resources for their staff and office buildings. Naloxone boxes have also been deployed throughout the State Capitol Building as part of this initiative.
For more information and the complete list of Fish Consumption Advisories, please visit the DOH website.
At the heart of the Department of Health’s mission is a simple yet profound goal: to protect and improve the health of all South Dakotans. The department is entrusted with the vital task of promoting wellness, preventing disease and ensuring access to quality healthcare for all South Dakotans across our great state.
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