DEQ updates mercury advisories for 10 lakes

The Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality has updated its list of lakes with consumption advisories for mercury.  Ten Oklahoma lakes have been added since the last advisory was issued in 2017. Those lakes are:

• Bixhoma
• Frederick
• Holdenville
• Hominy
• Talawanda #1
• Okemah
• Dripping Springs
• Okmulgee
• Sahoma
• Tom Steed

Each of the above listed lakes has recommendations specific to that lake.  For detailed information on the advisories and testing, go to: https://go.usa.gov/xdBCV

The consumption advisories are the result of testing done by DEQ with the cooperation of the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation.  Many of Oklahoma’s lakes have been tested to determine mercury levels.  Currently, 64 lakes in the state have specific advisories for mercury.

DEQ recognizes the importance of the sport of fishing in Oklahoma.  Fish provide many benefits that are essential for a healthy diet.  Some fish do pose a higher risk for mercury contamination; therefore, DEQ encourages people to be mindful of the type and amount of fish they eat.  DEQ actively promotes fishing and urges Oklahomans to enjoy the sport while following the suggested guidelines for fish consumption.

The levels of mercury in a lake do not affect the lake’s safety as a source of drinking water or for lake recreation such as swimming and boating.

LAKE PONCA CONSUMPTION RECOMMENDATIONS

Largemouth Bass

• Sensitive Population   No restriction under 18 inches   Two meals per month 18 inches and over
• General Population   No restriction

Flathead Catfish

• Sensitive Population   No restriction under 27 inches   Two meals per month 27 inches and over
• General Population No restriction

Species Tested & Safe For Consumption

• Black Crappie
• Channel Catfish
• Bluegill Sunfish
• Redear Sunfish
• Spotted Bass
• White Crappie

Sensitive Population: Women of child bearing age, pregnant or nursing mothers, and children up to age 15
General Population: Males age 15 and older and women past childbearing age

For detailed information on specific lakes with consumption advisories for mercury, go to: https://go.usa.gov/xdBCV, or call (866) 412-3057, or email [email protected].