vvEPA
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Fish and Shellfish Program
NEWSLETTER
January 2023
EPA 823N23001
In This Issue
Recent Advisory News 1
EPA News 4
Other News 6
Recently Awarded Research... 15
Tech and Tools 16
Recent Publications 18
Upcoming Meetings and
Conferences 19
Recent Advisory News
V
Fishing in California Rivers, Streams, and
Creeks? Follow the New Statewide Advisory
for Safe Eating Guidelines
On September 21, 2022, the California Environmental Protection Agency's Office of
Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA) issued a new statewide fish advisory
that offers safe-eating advice for fish caught in California rivers, streams and creeks
without site-specific advice. With the issuance of the advisory, OEHHA now offers fish
consumption advice covering every water body in California.
The new advisory is based on the levels of mercury and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs)
found in fish collected from more than 700 sites, including popular rivers frequented by
anglers all over California. These include the Los Angeles, Santa Ana, and Kern rivers in
Southern California; the Merced River in Central California; the Owens, Truckee, and
East Walker rivers in Eastern California; and the Klamath, Smith, McCloud, and Eel
rivers in Northern California.
This newsletter provides information
only. This newsletter does not
impose legally binding requirements
on the U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA), states, tribes, other
regulatory authorities, or the
regulated community. The Office of
Science and Technology, Office of
Water, U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency has approved this newsletter
for publication. Mention of trade
names, products, or services does
not convey and should not be
interpreted as conveying official EPA
approval, endorsement, or
recommendation for use.
https://www.epa.gov/fish-tech
This is the first time that safe-eating guidelines have been provided for these rivers. The
advisory is intended to be a guide for eating fish caught in these rivers, along with other
rivers, streams and creeks that are not covered by a specific advisory.
OEHHA has previously issued general advisories for coastal areas, lakes and reservoirs.
and fish that migrate between inland water bodies and the Pacific Ocean.
"Today's advisory represents an important milestone. It completes our suite of statewide
advisories, ensuring people fishing anywhere in California can consult safe-eating
guidance," said OEHHA Director Dr. Lauren Zeise.
"Many fish are excellent sources of protein and have nutrients that may reduce the risk of
heart disease. However, like fish all over the world, California fish also have detectable
levels of contaminants," Dr. Zeise said. "By following the guidelines in our latest advisory,
people who enjoy fishing along California's rivers, creeks and streams can safely eat fish
low in chemical contaminants and enjoy the well-known health benefits of fish
consumption."
This newsletter provides a bimonthly summary of news about fish and shellfish
-------
Fish and Shellfish Program newsletter
January 2023
When consuming fish from California rivers, streams, and creeks without site-specific advice, the guidelines are as
follows:
• Women ages 18 - 49 and children ages 1-17 should not eat black bass species, catfish species, common
carp, goldfish, Sacramento pikeminnow, or Sacramento sucker. They may safely eat a maximum of two total
servings per week of red shiner; or one total serving per week of brown trout, bullhead species, rainbow
trout, or sunfish species.
• Women ages 50 and older and men ages 18 and older may safely eat a maximum of five total servings per
week of red shiner; or three total servings per week of bullhead species or rainbow trout; or two total
servings per week of brown trout or sunfish species; or one total serving per week of black bass species,
catfish species, common carp, goldfish, Sacramento pikeminnow, or Sacramento sucker.
One serving is an eight-ounce fish fillet, measured prior to cooking, which is roughly the size and thickness of your
hand. Children should eat smaller servings. For small fish species, such as red shiner, several individual fish may
make up a single serving.
In addition to statewide advisories, OEHHA continually develops fish advisories for specific water bodies across the
state. OEHHA currently offers more than 100 site-specific advisories for lakes, reservoirs, rivers, bays, and coastal
areas across California. Locations are prioritized based on high contaminant levels or to alert people where it is safe
to fish for consumption.
Mercury is released into the environment from mining and burning coal, as well as from volcanoes and forest fires.
It accumulates in fish in the form of methylmercury, which can damage the brain and nervous system, especially in
developing children and fetuses. Because of this, OEHHA provides a separate set of recommendations specifically
for children up to age 17 and women of childbearing age (18 - 49 years).
PCBs are a group of industrial chemicals. At high levels of exposure, they can cause health problems, including
cancer. Although they were banned in the United States in the late 1970s, PCBs persist in the environment from
spills, leaks, or improper disposal. PCBs accumulate in the skin, fat, and some internal organs of fish. To reduce
exposure from PCB-contaminated fish, OEHHA recommends eating only the skinless fillet (meat) portion of the
fish.
OEHHA's fish advisory recommendations are based on the levels of contaminants, such as mercury, that persist in
the environment and accumulate in fish. They are independent of any advisories to limit fish intake due to
freshwater or estuarine harmful algal blooms (HABs). Before fishing, check the California HABs Portal to see if
there are recommended HAB advisories and always practice healthy water habits.
Eating fish in amounts slightly greater than the advisory's recommendations is not likely to cause health problems if
it is done occasionally, such as eating fish caught during an annual vacation.
A poster with the safe-eating advice for fish caught in California rivers, streams and creeks without site-specific
advice is available on OEHHA's website in English and additional languages.
2
-------
Fish and Shellfish Program newsletter
January 2023
OEHHA's mission is to protect and enhance the health of Californians and the environment through scientific
evaluations that inform, support, and guide regulatory and other actions in the state.
For more information, contact Amy Gilson at Amv.Gilson@oehha.ca.gov.
Source: https://oehha.ca.gov/fish/press-release/press-release-fish/fishing-california-rivers-streams-and-creeks-
follow-new
On June 20, 2022, the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) announced a
precautionary fish consumption advisory due to mercury on Center Hill Reservoir in Dekalb and Putnam counties.
In 2021, TDEC and the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) collected fish tissue data on Center Hill
Reservoir where fish were analyzed for mercury. Based on the fish tissue results, a precautionary fish consumption
advisory was issued for black bass species (largemouth, spotted, and smallmouth bass) in the reservoir.
TDEC advises that pregnant women, nursing mothers, and children avoid eating the fish species included in the
advisory and that all others limit consumption to one meal per month. Other recreational activities such as boating,
kayaking, swimming, wading, and catch and release fishing carry no risk.
"We provide these advisories so the community can make informed decisions about whether or not to consume the
fish they catch," said TDEC Deputy Commissioner Greg Young. "Unlike 'do not consume' advisories that warn the
general population to avoid eating fish from a particular body of water altogether, precautionary fish consumption
advisories are specifically directed to sensitive populations such as children, pregnant women, nursing mothers and
those who may eat fish frequently from the same body of water."
These studies documented that in black bass species mercury levels were above the trigger of 0.3 milligrams (mg)
per kilogram (kg) (parts per million [ppm]).
TDEC considers the source of mercury in Center Hill Reservoir to be atmospheric deposition.
TDEC will post warning signs at primary public access points and will work with the TWRA and United States Army
Corps of Engineers to communicate this information to the public.
About Fish Consumption Advisories
The Tennessee Water Quality Control Act identifies the commissioner of the Department of Environment and
Conservation as having the authority and responsibility to issue advisories for either water contact hazards like
pathogens or excessive health risks due to the accumulation of contaminants in fish or shellfish. Tennessee's
Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation
Issues Precautionary Fish Consumption Advisory on Center
Hill Reservoir
3
-------
Fish and Shellfish Program newsletter
January 2023
General Water Quality Criteria provide additional guidance regarding the conditions under which advisories may be
warranted.
There are two types of fish consumption advisories issued by TDEC based on the levels of contaminants present in
fish tissue. "Do not consume" fishing advisories are issued when levels of contaminants in fish tissue would
represent a threat to the general population. "Precautionary" advisories are issued when contaminant levels are
lower but would still pose a risk to sensitive subpopulations such as children, pregnant women, nursing mothers
and those who eat fish frequently from the same body of water.
Where new advisories have been issued, TDEC will immediately begin the process of putting up signs at primary
public access points. TDEC works in partnership with the TWRA to communicate information about fishing
advisories.
For a complete listing of Tennessee's current fishing advisories plus additional information about the advisory
issuance process, visit: https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/environment/water/watershed-
planning/wr wq fish-advisories.pdf.
An EPA website has additional information about mercury at: http: / /www.epa.gov/fish-tech/epa-fda-advisorv-
mercurv-fish-and-shellfish.
For more information, contact Debbie Arnwine at Debbie.Arnwine@tn.gov.
Source: https://www.tn.gov/environment/news/2022/6/2o/tdec-issues-precautionarv-fish-consumption-
advisorv-on-center-hill -reservoi r.html
EPA News
EPA Reestablishes Federal Water Pollution Standards for
Washington
On November 15, 2022, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a final rule to reestablish
federal water quality standards for the State of Washington. The agency's final rule follows the science to help
protect the health of Washingtonians and Tribal members who eat fish and shellfish caught in the state.
"Under the Clean Water Act, EPA has taken significant action to ensure our precious waters are safe for all to
enjoy," said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. "This final rule utilizes the latest scientific knowledge and
brings us one step closer to delivering safe swimmable, fishable bodies of water that the people of Washington
deserve."
"For many of us in Washington, and for the Tribal communities with whom we share geography, eating fish from
Puget Sound and our streams and rivers is part of our daily lives," said Washington Governor Jay Inslee.
4
-------
Fish and Shellfish Program newsletter
January 2023
"These fish must be safe for our families to eat. By reinstating the rule repealed by the prior administration, EPA
honors our shared commitment to protect and preserve clean water now and for generations to come."
"EPA's rule reestablishes standards that truly protect people who depend on locally caught fish as a staple in their
diets," said Laura Watson, director of the Washington Department of Ecology. "I am grateful that EPA
restored rules that recognize and reflect the importance of fish for Tribes as well as many other communities in our
state."
"The Makah Tribe appreciates that EPA has made good on its commitment to restore water quality standards in
Washington," said Patrick DePoe, vice chair of the Makah Tribal Council. "This is an important step
toward protecting water quality, ensuring health of our treaty resources, and supporting the exercise of our Treaty
rights to harvest fish and marine mammals. We have relied on marine and freshwater resources for thousands of
years and we need those resources to be clean and safe in order to survive and thrive as a people. We hope that we
can work with the United States and the State of Washington to build on this effort for continued improvement of
water quality, and expect our federal and state partners to move forward based on sound science and fulfillment of
their trust obligation to Tribes."
Under the Clean Water Act, states, or EPA when necessary, set limits (called "human health criteria") for pollutants
in water bodies that pose risks to human health through the consumption of locally caught fish and shellfish. With
this rule, EPA finalized limits for 72 different pollutants in Washington waters based on the comparatively large
amount of fish and shellfish consumed by people in the state. These stricter limits will better protect Tribal fish
consumers as well as all Washingtonians.
The agency's final rule supports EPA's commitment to protect water resources that support public health, economic
development, cultural activities, and subsistence practices.
Over the objections of state and Tribal leaders, the previous administration rolled back protective water quality
standards established by EPA in 2016. As a result of that rollback, water quality standards being implemented in
Washington were inadequate to protect human health. The final rule announced on November 15, 2022, follows
through on EPA's June 2021 and March 2022 commitments to restore protective, science-based human health
criteria in the state. View the final rule.
Learn more about protecting Tribal reserved rights in water quality standards in the Office of Water's action plan,
Strengthening The Nation-To-Nation Relationship with Tribes to Secure a Sustainable Water Future.
For more information, contact Erica Fleisig at fleisig.erica@epa.gov.
Source: https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/epa-reestablishes-federal-water-pollution-standards-washington
5
-------
Fish and Shellfish Program newsletter
January 2023
Contaminants in Fish from U.S. Rivers: Probability-Based National
Assessments - Recent EPA Publication
EPA recently published an article titled, "Contaminants in fish from U.S. rivers: Probability-based national
assessments," which characterizes mercury, PCB and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination in
river fish. By comparing results of the 2013-14 and 2018-19 National Rivers and Streams Assessments with
screening levels for assessing human health risks, EPA estimated the percent of sampled river miles with fillet
contaminant concentrations above a level protective of human health. Access the article here:
https://doi.org/io.ioi6/i.scitotenv.2022.i6oi:;':;7
For more information, contact John Healey at healev.iohn@epa.gov
Other News
Connecting Southeast Alaska's Algal Blooms to Shellfish Health
The Central Council of Tlingit and Haida Indian Tribes of Alaska (CCTHITA) are working alongside Alaska
Climate Adaptation Science Center (CASC) to better predict harmful algal blooms that affect locally
harvested shellfish.
On October 4, 2022, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) on behalf of Alaska CASC reported that many rural
communities in Southeast Alaska rely on shellfish as a source of subsistence and recreation. However, harmful algal
blooms that occur in this region can lead to an accumulation of paralytic shellfish toxins in shellfish, like clams, at a
level that are dangerous for human consumption. With rising sea temperatures from a warming climate prolonging
the timing of when these algal blooms occur, Alaska CASC supported researchers are working with collaborators
from the CCTHITA to identify and model trends in algal blooms.
Temperature, wind speed and salinity data, combined with Traditional Ecological Knowledge from Tlingit elders,
who use the timing of spawning herring as an indicator for the return of algal blooms, help identify when shellfish
may be most toxic and harmful to eat. With records on the timing of herring spawns dating back to the 1980s,
resource managers could use this data as a proxy for the timing of historical algal blooms to better predict when and
where shellfish resources may be affected.
For more information, visit the CASC webpage or read the original news story bv the Alaska CASC.
Source: https://www.usgs.gov/programs/climate-adaptation-science-centers/news/connecting-alaskas-algal-
blooms-shellfish-health
6
-------
Fish and Shellfish Program newsletter
January 2023
Domoic Acid Monitoring in Razor Clams 2015-2021
Information about domoic acid levels in razor clams from Humboldt and Del Norte counties, focusing on
samples collected 2015-2021.
Razor Clam Monitoring
On October 6, 2022, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) released a summary of the razor clam
domoic acid data and health advisories, focusing on the 2015 to 2021 period. CDPH coordinates with the Office of
Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA) and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW)
to protect the public from biotoxins in bivalve shellfish and other seafood. Razor clams are filter feeders which can
accumulate naturally occurring toxins as they feed on phvtoplankton that produce the toxins.
One of the naturally occurring marine biotoxins that CDPH monitors is domoic acid. Domoic acid, which is
produced by microscopic algae of the genus Pseudo-nitzschia, is a nerve toxin which can cause amnesic shellfish
poisoning. Mild symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, headache, and dizziness. Severe
symptoms include excessive bronchial secretions, difficulty breathing, confusion, disorientation, cardiovascular
instability, seizures, permanent loss of short-term memory, coma, and death. Cooking does not destroy the toxin.
The CDPH Marine Biotoxin Monitoring Program has been frequently testing Pacific razor clams (Siliqua palula) for
domoic acid in Del Norte and Humboldt counties since 2016. In California, the largest populations of razor clams
are in these two counties, providing recreational clamming opportunities.
Figure 1 summarizes the razor clam domoic acid data
and health advisories from 2015 to mid-2022. Annual
detections of domoic acid in razor clams began in 2015
for Humboldt County and in 2016 for Del Norte
County. CDPH increased razor clam sampling in
response to the toxin detection, with assistance from
volunteers and sampling partners, and issued health
advisories to warn the public. Domoic acid levels
greater than or equal to 20 ppm are a public health risk
to consumers as established by the federal Food and
Drue Administration f FDA). Prior to 2015, razor clam
sampling was less frequent, and domoic acid detections
above the alert level occurred in 1992, 2004, and 2006
for Humboldt and in 2004 for Del Norte.
Razor clams are unusual in that they hold onto the
toxin domoic acid in the meat and viscera much longer
than other bivalve shellfish filter feeders, like mussels, oysters, and other clam species. The sample results show
that the razor clams from Del Norte and Humboldt counties contained domoic acid levels above the 20 parts per
million (ppm) federal alert level for about one year after each domoic acid event. The concentrations slowly
Figure 1. Razor clam domoic acid results and advisories 1/1/2015 - 6/30/2022.
500 -i —
400 - .
2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022
Razor clam Advisory Issued n Del Norte razor clam
Razor clam Advisory Lifted • Humboldt razor clam
CZZZl Del Norte Co. Fishery Closure 20 ppm Alert Level
i Humboldt Co. Fishery Closure
Figure 1. Razor clam domoicacid results and advisories 1/1/2015-
6/30/2022. Full-size image available in the original article (Photo courtesy of
CDPH Marine Biotoxin Monitoring Program)
7
-------
Fish and Shellfish Program newsletter
January 2023
decreased over time; then annual domoic acid events in 2016 - 2020, between the months of June-November,
caused the results to increase again.
The data presented demonstrates that consistent monitoring of domoic acid levels in razor clams is needed to
ensure the safety of recreational razor clamming due to the unique way these clams retain high concentrations for
long periods of time. CDPH remains committed to monitoring biotoxin levels in this fishery to ensure public safety
of domoic acid in razor clams in both Del Norte and Humboldt Counties.
Health Advisories & Closures
CDPH Health Advisories
The current Health Advisories issued by CDPH for bivalve shellfish are displayed in an interactive map. CDPH also
posted the recent Shellfish Advisories online.
When domoic acid concentrations in bivalve shellfish meet or exceed the federal level, CDPH issues a health
advisory for the County or counties with elevated results to warn recreational harvesters. Typically, when an
advisory is issued, it is issued for all species of recreationally harvested bivalve shellfish (clams, mussels, and
scallops). Advisories can also be issued for a specific species of shellfish, like razor clams, if the risk of poisoning is
only related to that species.
Razor Clam Fishery Closures
CDFW and/or the Fish and Game Commission (FGC) have the ability to close the razor clam fishery to protect
recreational harvesters from domoic acid.
Timeline of razor clam CDPH Health Advisories and CDFW/FGC fishery closures issued from 2015 to June 30,
2022 (Figure 1):
• August 26, 2015: CDPH Warns Consumers Not to Eat Bivalve Shellfish Caught in Humboldt or Del Norte
Counties.
• December 9, 2015: CDPH Updates Warning about Shellfish from Humboldt and Del Norte Counties. Health
Advisory lifted for other species of shellfish, advisory remains for razor clams.
• April 25, 2016: FGC closed the recreational razor clam fisheries in Humboldt and Del Norte counties in
response to continued unsafe levels of domoic acid in razor clams posing a public health risk to consumers.
• April 29, 2021: CDFW reopened the razor clam fishery for Del Norte County. These actions were taken after
two consecutive rounds of samples that met the reopening criteria.
• Mav 2021CDPH Lifts warning about razor clams from Del Norte County.
• August 9, 2021: CDFW reopened the razor clam fishery for Humboldt County. These actions were taken
after two consecutive rounds of samples that met the reopening criteria.
• August 11, 2021s: CDPH lifts warning about razor clams from Humboldt County.
8
-------
Fish and Shellfish Program newsletter
January 2023
• December 16, 2021: CDPH warns consumers not to eat sport-harvested razor clams from Del Norte County.
• December 16, 2021: CDFW closed the razor clam fishery in Del Norte County due to domoic acid.
• June 24, 2022: CDFW reopened the razor clam fishery for Del Norte County. These actions were taken after
two consecutive rounds of samples that met the reopening criteria.
• June 27, 2022s: CDPH lifts warning about razor clams from Del Norte Countv.
*Note there are a few days between fishery reopening and CDPH advisory liftings due to posting timing only.
Reopening Criteria
CDPH and CDFW receive guidance from OEHHA to determine sampling strategy and reopening criteria.
The criteria for reopening the fishery or lifting the CDPH health advisory for razor clams is two sets of samples
collected at least one week apart that test below the 20 ppm alert level for domoic acid.
Starting in 2016, samplers were directed to collect at least six razor clams per sampling date. Most of the analyses
were conducted on individual clam meats. Occasionally, small clams were pooled (combined) together to meet
minimum sample weight requirements and for processing purposes.
After the razor clam fisheries reopened in April 2021 for Del Norte County and August 2021 for Humboldt County,
CDPH transitioned to a new sampling strategy with guidance from OEHHA. The samplers are instructed to collect
12 individual razor clams per sampling date. These clam meats are analyzed by pooling four individuals together for
three separate samples. The new sampling strategy was put into place because the pooled samples more accurately
represent a meal-sized portion. The pooled sample result also makes it less likely that one individual clam would
trigger an advisory.
Sampling and Testing
The map shows primary sample sites for both razor clams (blue dots), mussels (orange diamonds), and
phytoplankton (black dots) in Del Norte and Humboldt counties. It should be noted that mussels and razor clams
are collected from different locations and habitats, which may result
in differences in exposure to the domoic acid producing
phytoplankton Pseudo-nitzschia. The occurrence of Pseudo-
nitzschia may vary along the coastline depending on ocean currents
and water column characteristics.
Razor Clams
In California, the largest populations of razor clams are in Del Norte
and Humboldt counties. Razor clams can only be accessed at low
tides when the portion of the beach where the clams live is exposed.
The whole in-shell clams are dug out of the sand, frozen, and
shipped to the CDPH laboratory in Richmond, California where
Razor clams from Clam Beach. (Photo courtesy of CDPH)
9
-------
Fish and Shellfish Program newsletter
January 2023
they are processed and analyzed. At the laboratory, the clams are shucked and dissected to separate meat from
viscera. The meat or viscera is ground up and analyzed by high performance liquid chromatography an analytical
chemistry method.
Primary sample sites are Crescent Beach in Del Norte County and Clam Beach in Humboldt County, with
Moonstone Beach in Humboldt County infrequently sampled. CDPH will continue testing razor clams from both
counties.
Razor clam samples are collected for testing by partners from CDFW, Tolowa Dee-Ni' Nation, and citizen
volunteers.
Mussels
Mussels are the main bivalve shellfish species sampled for routine biotoxin monitoring statewide. Mussels are
found in the rocky intertidal zone and can be accessed at low tide. Mussels are collected and typically shucked,
frozen, and shipped to CDPH. A sample consists of 12 - 30 shucked whole mussels pooled together and ground up.
All mussel samples are tested for paralytic shellfish poison (PSP) toxins. Select mussel samples are tested for
domoic acid based on risk assessment from phytoplankton data, during domoic acid events, and for commercial or
other monitoring needs.
Primary mussel sampling sites in Del Norte County are Wilson Creek and Hunter Rock, and less frequently sampled
sites include Pyramid Point, Point St. George, and Crescent City locations. Primary sample sites in Humboldt
County are inside Humboldt Bay and at Trinidad Head, and less frequently sampled sites include Baker Beach,
Moonstone Beach, Luffenholtz Beach, Shelter Cove, Stone Lagoon, and other Trinidad locations.
Del Norte County mussel sample collectors include the Yurok Tribe, Tolowa Dee-Ni' Nation, CDFW, and volunteers.
Humboldt County collectors include Pacific Shellfish Humboldt, Humboldt County Environmental Health, Yurok
Tribe, Humboldt State University Marine Lab, CDFW, and volunteers.
Phytoplankton
Phytoplankton samples are collected using a 2 |um mesh net to concentrate seawater. Sample bottles are mailed to
CDPH where the types of phytoplankton are identified using light microscopy. CDPH estimates the relative
abundance of phytoplankton (like Pseudo-nitzschia) as the percent observed out of 100% of both living and non-
living matter.
Primary phytoplankton sample sites are Wilson Creek and Hunter Rock in Del Norte County and Trinidad Pier and
Indian Island Channel in Humboldt County.
Collectors include Pacific Shellfish Humboldt, Yurok Tribe, Tolowa Dee-Ni' Nation, Humboldt State University
Marine Lab, and volunteers.
Results 2015-2021
A data summary for January 2015 to December 2021 and a table of recent domoic acid results in razor clams are
posted online.
10
-------
Fish and Shellfish Program newsletter
January 2023
Domoic Acid in Razor Clams and Mussels
Figures 2 and 3 display the domoic acid sample results in razor clams and mussels for each year from 2015 to 2021
collected in Del Norte and Humboldt counties.
Most of data points are for concentrations of
domoic acid in individual clam meats without
\iscera. A small portion of data are pooled samples
of two or more clam meats, and a small portion are
individual or pooled whole clams (meat and
\iscera). Samples are represented by transparent
blue dots which appear darker where there are
overlapping data points. Pooled mussel samples are
represented by orange triangles. The red line
represents the 20 ppm alert level. Samples which
tested below the detection limit of 2.5 ppm are
plotted at 1 ppm. Domoic acid is plotted on a non-
linear logarithmic scale, to show the lower range of
the values.
Due to the timing of ocean conditions and sampler
availability, there are data gaps and changes in
sampling frequency.
Mussel Samples
Mussels do not retain domoic acid for very long and
detection in mussels can indicate when a domoic
acid event occurred in the region. Note that mussel
samples were collected infrequently in Del Norte
County.
Figure 2. Del Norte County domoic acid levels in mussel and razor clam samples 2015-2021. Log scale.
2015 2016 2017
{ *1
1 j i! ! •;
8 •
I:
!.
• ••
I •• • •
':;L-
1 4
Hi *
•* a
J I a
2021
• Razor clam
A Mussel
20 ppm Alert Level
•)CDI»[ I
Figure 2. Del Norte County domoic acid levels in mussel and razor clam
samples 2015-2021. Log scale. Full-size image available in the original
article (Photo courtesy of CDPH)
Figure 3 . Humboldt County domoic acid levels in mussel and razor clam samples 2015-2021. Log scale.
2015 2016 2017
: I -i* 8 •!
«•. ' '»
... | !
¦! i:;!i !
¦ ! 1 £ 1 *.
h ••!*
' .1;; i v-
2021
!lih
: I
i „
. j v
•I
Razor clam
Mussel
- 20 ppm Alert Level
IcSph
Figure 3. Humboldt County domoic acid levels in mussel and razor clam
samples 2015-2021. Log scale. Full-size image available in the original
article (Photo courtesy of CDPH)
For Del Norte County, domoic acid was detected in
pooled mussel samples every year from 2015 - 2019
and in 2021. For Humboldt County, domoic acid was
detected in pooled mussel samples every year from
2015 - 2020. Detection of domoic acid in mussels
occurred between the months of June to November. When mussel samples exceeded the alert level for domoic acid,
they returned to levels below the detection limit (2.5 ppm) within two to seven weeks.
Razor Clam Samples
From 2015 - 2021, for every instance of domoic acid detection in pooled mussel samples, there was an even higher
concentration in razor clams that slowly declined over the following months such that another domoic acid event
would cause the razor clams to re-accumulate the toxin before reaching safe levels. The domoic acid levels in all
11
-------
Fish and Shellfish Program newsletter
January 2023
razor clam samples didn't fall below the alert level until early 2021 for Del Norte County and mid-2021 for
Humboldt County.
For both counties, Figures 2 and 3 show samples above the alert level occurred every year, when samples were
tested. There was variability in razor clam meat domoic acid concentrations among individuals collected on the
same date from 2016 to 2020. Humboldt County razor clams accumulated higher levels of domoic acid than razor
clams from Del Norte County with a maximum domoic acid concentration in individual meat of 450 ppm which
occurred in April 2019 at Clam Beach. In Del Norte County the highest concentration of 280 ppm occurred in
January 2018 and March 2019, at Crescent Beach.
For Del Norte County, in 2016, 84% of razor clam samples were at or above the 20 ppm alert level, including
individual and pooled samples (n=so). In 2020, this number had fallen to 52% (n=83), and from January to April
2021, only 7% of samples were at or above 20 ppm (n=28). Two sets of samples collected in March and April 2021
had all individuals below the alert level and allowed for re-opening.
For Humboldt County, in 2016, 90% of razor clam samples were at or above the 20 ppm alert level, including
individual and pooled samples (n=49). By 2020 this number had fallen to 64% (n=33), and from January to April
2021,31% were at or above 20 ppm (n=i6). Samples were collected more consistently over time in Humboldt
County and Figure 3 shows more clearly the differences in razor clam and mussel domoic acid concentrations. Two
sets of samples collected in June and July 2021 had all individuals below the alert level and allowed for re-opening.
Comparison With Psendo-nitzschia Phytoplankton Data
Figures 4 and 5 show the razor clam maximum domoic
acid result per sample date and mussel domoic acid results
with the percent composition of Pseudo-nitzschici, the
diatom which can produce domoic acid. The dataset spans
from 1996 - 2021. Note that shellfish data are sporadic
prior to 2015.
Figure 4. Del Norte County domoic acid levels and Pseudo-nitzschia observations. Log scale.
1000
•
i-
*
• V
"
II
A
. , i , fill
* A
1 a'**
r T
1992 1994 1996 19S8 2000 2002 2004 2006 :
I 2010 2012 2014 2016 2018 2020 2022
The razor clam maximum domoic acid sample results per
date are represented as blue circles and the pooled mussel
domoic acid sample results are represented by orange
triangles. The red line represents the 20 ppm domoic acid
alert level. Samples which tested below the detection limit
of 2.5 ppm are plotted at 1 ppm. Domoic acid is plotted on
a non-linear logarithmic scale, to show the lower range of
the values.
r
•
•
•
•
* . .
• •* .
•
•
A
t *
*
i
% •
i
^ • .
A *
•
• •
L
2016
2017
2018
A Mussel domoic acid
• Maximum Razor clam domoic acid
Pseudo-nitzschia percent composition
20 ppm Alert Level
iCDPH
Figure 4. Del Norte County domoic acid levels and Pseudo-nitzschia
observations. Full-size image available in the original article (Photo
courtesy of CDPH)
12
-------
Fish and Shellfish Program newsletter
January 2023
Bivalve shellfish such as mussels and clams can
accumulate domoic acid from filter feeding on Pseudo-
nitzschia cells. Note: Pseudo-nitzschici cells do not
always produce the biotoxin domoic acid, so the
monitoring of shellfish is necessary to confirm a toxic
event. CDPH considers detection of elevated abundance
or blooms of Pseudo-nitzschici cells in the water column
to be a high risk for domoic acid production. Percent
composition is an estimate of Pseudo-nitzschici relative
abundance, the percent observed out of 100% of both
living and non-living matter in a concentrated water
sample determined via light microscopy. The grey lines
show the percent composition of Pseudo-nitzschici
observed in a sample. A spike in the percent
composition represents a period of elevated relative
abundance of Pseudo-nitzschici cells in the water
column.
The spikes in mussel domoic acid indicate which Pseudo-nitzschici blooms contain toxigenic species and are an
indicator of the magnitude and length of time of a domoic acid event. The figures show the rapid response of
mussels for both accumulating and purging the toxin during and after a domoic acid event. The razor clams also
appeared to uptake domoic acid rapidly, but in contrast, took much longer to cleanse. Consequently, the razor clams
maintained elevated domoic acid concentrations due to repeated exposure to toxigenic Pseudo-nitzschici activity.
The historical data, starting in 1991, show episodic domoic acid occurrences in shellfish samples. Prior to 2015,
domoic acid was detected over the alert level in shellfish in 1991, 2002, 2004, 2005, and 2006. When razor clams
were sampled, they generally contained higher levels of domoic acid than the mussels. There may be some domoic
acid events that were missed due to gaps in the data set. This shows a need for constant monitoring of both
plankton and shellfish.
Resources and Additional Information
• CDPH Marine Biotoxin Monitoring Program
• Domoic Acid Frequently Asked Questions
• CDFW: Health Advisories and Closures for California Finfish. Shellfish and Crustaceans
• Food and Drug Administration: Fish and Fishery Products Hazards and Controls Guidance
• OEHHA Harmful Algal Blooms CHABsl
Figure 5. Humboldt County domoic acid levels and Pseudo-nitzschia observations. Log scale.
1000
J
•
-• >, •>
ftp-
A
-A-
t
t
1992 1994 1996 1998 2000 2002 2004 2006 2008 2010 2012 2014 2016 2018 2020 2022
2.
.A
tiU
2015 2016 2017 2018 2019
• Maximum razor clam domoic acid
A Mussel domoic acid
Pseudo-nitzschia percent composition
20 ppm Alert Level
2020 2021 2022
l&PH
Figure 5. Humboldt County domoic acid levels and Pseudo-nitzschia
observations. Full-size image available in the original article (Photo
courtesy of CDPH)
13
-------
Fish and Shellfish Program newsletter
January 2023
Check Current Shellfish Advisories
Before harvesting or consuming recreationally harvested shellfish please check the Recreational Bivalve Shellfish
Advisory Map or call the Biotoxin Information Line at 1-800-553-4133.
For more information, including about volunteer opportunities sampling shellfish or phytoplankton, contact CDPH
or Marine Biotoxin Monitoring Program at redtide@cdph.ca.gov.
Source: iittps://stofvrnaps,arcuis.com/stories/01-8oe4i6a74<84bai8-",oa^6ca'^7foobb2
Sea Grant Advances Investigation of Contaminants of Emerging
Concern
On December 1.2022, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration (NOAA) noted that contaminants of emerging
concern, like pharmaceuticals, cleaning products and
microfibers, pose risks to the nation's drinking waters and
aquatic life, but they are often excluded from monitoring
programs and published water quality standards. Two new
projects recently funded by Sea Grant aim to enhance research
and monitoring efforts for this class of chemicals and materials
while strengthening strategies to reduce their presence in
aquatic environments.
In the Great Lakes, Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant will lead the
development of a regional research competition on the impact of PFAS, to better understand the risk, exposure, and
remediation of these environmental contaminants. PFAS compounds can persist in the environment and drinking
water as "forever chemicals", and they negatively impact human and animal health. The regional research
competition will address challenges such as how to effectively communicate risk of PFAS exposure in vulnerable
communities, identify behaviors that limit risk of PFAS exposure or negative impacts or quantify economic impacts
of suggested PFAS remediation practices. A key component of funded research will be to collaborate with at least
one Great Lakes region Sea Grant partner to support outreach activities that engage underserved communities and
state or tribal agencies, sharing research results across the Great Lakes region and beyond.
In the Southeast U.S., the South Carolina Sea Grant Consortium will lead an investigation of the drivers of aquatic
contaminants of emerging concern in South Carolina, Georgia and Florida and inform the development of potential
mitigation solutions. The program will execute a competitive research program supported by a gap and network
analysis, an advisory committee of community experts, and a blended research model of academic faculty, students,
state agency representatives, community leaders and extension specialists to carry out research and outreach
activities. Topics to be addressed related to contaminants of emerging concern could include prevalence, transport
and interactive effects, climate change impacts and human health effects from seafood consumption. In the final
A researcher investigates PFAS in Wisconsin's waters from a
lab. (Photo courtesy of NOAA Sea Grant)
14
-------
Fish and Shellfish Program newsletter
January 2023
year of the project, Sea Grant's Community Engaged Interns will participate in the development and
implementation of outreach activities for pertinent stakeholders.
Both projects will receive a combined total of approximately $900,000 in federal funding over three years and
require at least 50 percent in non-federal matching funds.
Sea Grant's work in contaminants of emerging concern is supported in part by congressional direction and
appropriations from fiscal years 2021 and 2022. Funding from 2021. supported a nationwide scoping campaign to
identify how the National Sea Grant College Program's expertise in contaminants of emerging concern can be most
effectively leveraged. Connecticut Sea Grant published the resulting national framework in May 2022. The program
is also in the process of executing an Atlantic coast regional research competition on contaminants of emerging
concern with 2021 funds.
To learn more about Sea Grant's work in Healthy Coastal Ecosystems visit this paae.
For more information, contact Sea Grant at sgweb@noaa.gov.
Source: https://seagrant.noaa.gov/News/Article/ArtMID/1660/ArticleID/2Qi6/Sea-Grant-advances-investigation-
of-ro n t a 111 i n a n t s-of-e m e r g i n g - co n ce r n
Recently Awarded Research
Westchester County Parks Conservation Division Receives Grant
from the State for the Hudson River Fish Advisory Outreach Project
On July 28, 2022, the Westchester County Parks Conservation division received a grant from New York State for
the Hudson River Fish Advisory Outreach Project. The division was awarded $15,000 per year through December
31, 2023.
The Hudson River Fish Advisory Outreach Project's mission is to educate the public about fishing, fish
consumption, and its accompanying advisories and regulations, by appointing ambassadors to provide information
at Westchester County parks, beginning with Croton Point Park in Croton-on-Hudson in 2022, followed by
Oscawana Park in Croton-on-Hudson and George's Island in Montrose in 2023.
Westchester County Executive George Latimer said, "Fishing is a common pastime in Westchester County, and it is
important that those who actively fish are educated and prepared. I am confident the Westchester County Parks
Conservation Division and its ambassadors will provide the community with all necessary information."
Commissioner of the Westchester County Department of Parks, Recreation and Conservation, Kathy O'Connor said,
"I'm thrilled that the Conservation Division has been awarded such an important grant and are providing residents
with a fun and interactive way to learn more about fishing in our parks."
15
-------
Fish and Shellfish Program newsletter
January 2023
In addition to Croton Point Park, ambassadors can be found across the county at various events this summer
including local farmers markets and County events like Heritage Cultural Festivals alongside an interactive
educational stand-in display that allows visitors to learn about the mission in a fun way through various handouts,
which are available in English and Spanish, as well as photo opportunities. The display is also located at Croton
Point Park, and visitors are encouraged to share photos on social media using #PRCFishingAmbassadors.
Additional information can be found on the New York State Department of Health website.
Source: https://parks.\\estchestergo\ .com/press-releases/0,n8-\\estchester-count\-parks-conser\ ation-di\ ision-
receives-grant-from-the-state-for-the-hudson-river-fish-advisorv-outreach-proiect
Tech and Tools
App Provides Culturally Tailored Fish Consumption Guidelines to
Anishinaabe
A phone app for reducing exposure to harmful contaminants from fish consumption was developed for the
Anishinaabe (Ojibwe and associated Great Lakes Tribes). It is called Gigiigoo'inaan, which means "our fish" in the
Ojibwe language. Phone apps and online environmental health literacy resources can be effective ways to reach
community members with important health information.
The culturally relevant app was designed and developed by researchers at the Medical College of Wisconsin who
worked with the Chippewa Ottawa Resource Authority (CORA), the Great Lakes Inter-Tribal Council, and the Inter-
Tribal Council of Michigan. The research team also tested whether the app was successful at increasing
environmental health literacy about fish consumption. This work is described in a September 2022 paper.
"Fishing and fish consumption are important parts of minobimaadiziiwin — or 'living in a good way,'" stated Amy
Poupart, program director for the Great Lakes Native American Research Center for Health. "Restrictive fish
consumption advisories are disruptive to our traditions and lifeways. However, there is ongoing work in the
community to reduce environmental contaminants, and environmental health literacy interventions, such as ours,
complement these efforts."
Tailoring Recommendations to the Anishinaabe Community
Community members informed the app's features and content. For example, Gigiigoo'inaan includes Ojibwe names
for fish and incorporates traditional artwork. Previous papers describe the app's development and design, focus
group results that informed development, and methods to determine recommended fish consumption.
16
-------
Fish and Shellfish Program newsletter
January 2023
The app is intended to increase environmental
health literacy by including information on
recommended consumption amounts of different
types of fish. The recommendations are based on
CORA's sampling data for contaminants found in
various types of fish. The app also allows for
personalization by the user, such as body weight
and sex, which allows the user to calculate the
maximum fish consumption that is within
regulatory limits of contaminants set by
government agencies. Additionally, the app shows
whether a fish provides healthy fatty acids and
how many times the fish may be consumed per
week based on the risk of contaminant exposure.
"Our team developed this app over several years, incorporating community engaged, culturally appropriate data
that truly makes this app unique to the Anishinaabe," stated Matthew Dellinger, Ph.D., lead investigator of the
National Institute of Environmental Health Science (NIEHS)-funded study and co-investigator at the Great Lakes
Native American Research Center for Health. "An important part of environmental health literacy is access to
information, so the app format, which can be accessed on a smartphone or online on another device, is easily
accessible to most people. But providing information tailored to the community is also critical. The Gigiigoo'inaan
app meets this goal."
Fish Consumption App Tested in the Community
The Inter-Tribal Council of Michigan recruited Tribal members to participate in the study through inter-Tribal
consortia agreements. The researchers used an experimental study design in which 130 participants had access to
Gigiigoo'inaan after researchers determined typical fish consumption before using the app. An additional 136
participants in a control group did not use the app. All participants received compensation for their participation.
The study took place over eight weeks during the Great Lakes winter ice fishing season, when residents typically
consume a lot of fish. Throughout this time, researchers sent weekly surveys to participants prompting them to self-
report the amount of each type of fish they consumed. Using CORA's sampling data on contaminant levels in fish,
researchers estimated contaminant consumption based on the self-reported data. Researchers also estimated
omega-3 fatty acid consumption.
Interestingly, researchers did not find statistically significant differences between the contaminants consumed by
participants using the app and those who did not use the app. Few participants in both the control and app arms of
the study exceeded regulatory limits, but encouragingly, the researchers found that most participants were
consuming recommended intakes of omega-3 fatty acids, indicating that minobimaadiziiwin and traditional fishing
practices promote healthy eating habits. Additionally, app users found Gigiigoo'inaan to be engaging, useful, and
culturally appropriate.
A screenshot of the Gigiio'inaan app shows an example of the nutrition
recommendations and contaminant information for a fish, as well as the
corresponding images and artwork, (Photo courtesy of Matthew Dellinger)
17
-------
Fish and Shellfish Program newsletter
January 2023
"While we did not see large differences in contaminant exposure or fish consumption between the app users and
those that did not use the app, we don't find these results discouraging," reflected Dellinger. "Quite the opposite.
These results show that Anishinaabe community engagement efforts may be encouraging healthy fish consumption
behaviors by getting the word out about fish advisories while promoting minobimaadiziiwin, which in turn
encourages more fishing and hunting. The main effect we found was a self-reported increase in confidence that fish
could be safely consumed by favoring lower contaminant species and limiting others."
Dellinger provided the example of walleye, a fish species important to the community. Previous advice has flagged
large walleye as dangerously high in contaminants, but Gigiigoo'inaan provides a personalized recommendation
that increases confidence in safe consumption of that fish without exceeding advisory limits.
In the future, the researchers will look to expand their understanding of how cultural concepts of health and
wellness interact with environmental health literacy to promote healthy, exposure-reducing, behaviors. The study is
currently in its final phase to assess long-term app use and sustained improvement in environmental health
literacy.
For more information, contact Matthew Dellinger at mdellinger@mcw.edu.
Source: https://www.niehs.nih.gov/research/supported/translational/peph/newsletter/2022/11/index.cfm
Recent Publications
Journal Articles
The list below provides a selection of research articles.
~ Hie Impact of Mercury Contamination on Human Health in the Arctic: A State of the Science Review
Basu, N., Abass, K., Dietz, R., Krummel, E., Rautio, A., and P. Weihe. 2022.The Impact of Mercury Contamination on Human Health
in the Arctic: A State of the Science Review. Science of The Total Environment, Volume 831, 154793.
~ Preferences for Seafood Consumption Advice in Pregnant American Women
Connelly, N., Lauber, T., and B. Knuth. 2022. Preferences for Seafood Consumption Advice in Pregnant American Women.
Environmental Research, 214, 114058.
~ Environmental Health Literacy for Anishinaabe (Great Lakes Native American) Fish Consumers: A Randomized Control Trial
Dellinger, M., Pingatore, N., Chelius, T., Visotcky, A., Sparapani, R., and M. Ripley. 2022. Environmental Health Literacy for
Anishinaabe (Great Lakes Native American) Fish Consumers: A Randomized Control Trial. Environmental Research, 212, 113335.
~ Mercury in Kansas Fish: Levels. Patterns, and Risk-Based Safe Consumption Limits for Mercury Sensitive Populations
Goodrich, C., Jacobs, B., and B. Miller. 2022. Mercury in Kansas Fish: Levels, Patterns, and Risk-Based Safe Consumption Limits
for Mercury Sensitive Populations. Transactions of the Kansas Academy of Science, 125(3-4), 165-190
~ Affordabilitv Influences Nutritional Quality of Seafood Consumption Among Income and Race/Ethnicitv Groups in the United States
Love, D, Thorne-Lyman, A., Conrad, Z., Gephart, J., Asche, F., Godo-Solo, D., and M. Bloem. 2022. Affordability Influences
Nutritional Quality of Seafood Consumption Among Income and Race/Ethnicity Groups in the United States. The American Journal
of Clinical Nutrition, 116(2), 415-425.
18
-------
Fish and Shellfish Program newsletter
January 2023
~ PFAS and Precursor Bioaccumulation in Freshwater Recreational Fish: Implications for Fish Advisories
Pickard, H., Ruyle, B., Thackray, C., Chovancova, A., Dassuncao, C., Becanova, J., and E. Sunderland. 2022. PFAS and Precursor
Bioaccumulation in Freshwater Recreational Fish: Implications for Fish Advisories. Environmental Science & Technology, 56(22),
15573-15583.
~ Assessing Per-and Polvfluoroalkvl Substances (PFAS) in Sediments and Fishes in a Large. Urbanized Estuary and the Potential Human Health
Implications
Pulster, E., Rullo, K., Gilbert, S., Ash, T., Goetting, B., Campbell, K., and S. Murawski. 2022. Assessing Per-and Polyfluoroalkyl
Substances (PFAS) in Sediments and Fishes in a Large, Urbanized Estuary and the Potential Human Health Implications. Frontiers
in Marine Science, 2314.
~ Restored Ovster Reefs Match Multiple Functions of Natural Reefs Within a Decade
Smith, R., Lusk, B., and M. Castorani. 2022. Restored Oyster Reefs Match Multiple Functions of Natural Reefs Within a Decade.
Conservation Letters, el2883.
~ Meta-Analvsis of Ecosystem Services Associated with Ovster Restoration
Smith, R., Cheng, S., and M. Castorani. 2022. Meta-Analysis of Ecosystem Services Associated with Oyster Restoration.
Conservation Biology, 00, el3966.
~ Contaminants in Fish from U.S. Rivers: Probability-Based National Assessments
Stahl, L.L., Snyder, B.D., McCarty, H.B., Kincaid, T.M., Olsen, A.R., Cohen, T.R., Healey, J.C. 2023. Contaminants in Fish from U.S.
Rivers: Probability-Based National Assessments. Science of the Total Environment, 160557.
Upcoming Meetings and Conferences
115th Annual Meeting of the National Shellfisheries Association
March 26-30, 2023
Baltimore, MD
13th National Monitoring Conference
April 24-28, 2023
Virginia Beach, VA
Additional Information
This bimonthly newsletter highlights current information about fish and shellfish.
For more information about specific advisories within the state, territory, or tribe, contact the appropriate
state agency listed on EPA's National Listing of Fish Advisories website at https://fishadvisorvonline.epa.gov/Contacts.aspx.
For more information about this newsletter, contact Sharon Frev (Frev.Sharon@epa.gov. 202-566-1480).
Additional information about advisories and fish and shellfish consumption can be found at https://www.epa.gov/fish-tech.
19
------- |