A recent study by the Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE) in Washington, DC, reveals that fish caught in the Potomac and Anacostia Rivers contain concerning levels of PFAS, also known as 'forever chemicals.' The study, which analyzed various fish species for a range of contaminants including PFAS, PCBs, and metals, suggests reducing fish consumption from these waterways. While final guidance from the US EPA on interpreting PFAS concentrations is pending, the preliminary findings underscore potential health risks associated with long-term exposure to PFAS.
“The Department of Energy and Environment has recently completed a tissue study of fish caught in DC waters. Results of the study indicate that persons who eat fish caught in the District of Columbia’s Potomac and Anacostia River s need to consider eating less of those fish. This notice does not pertain to fish purchased from restaurants, fish vendors, or supermarkets.
The study analyzed the tissue of various species of fish for a variety of chemicals, including for the first time, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances or PFAS. The study also analyzed the samples for the chemicals tested in earlier studies such as PCBs, PAHs, metals, and organochlorine pesticides. The study results showed that the majority of species tested contained PFAS. PFAS are at times referred to as “forever chemicals” as they do not break down and tend to accumulate in the environment.
This notice is preliminary as US EPA final guidance on how to interpret PFAS fish tissue concentrations is not currently available. The equations used to calculate the number of meals based on fish tissue concentrations are under revision by US EPA. Once the guidance and revised equations are available, DOEE will complete the analysis of the findings of the fish tissue study and make new fish consumption recommendations, as appropriate.
Comparison of the study results with screening values for PFAS developed by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection showed that fewer servings of some species should be eaten.
Note DOEE did not sample tissue from flathead catfish so does not have data that indicates what amount of flathead catfish is safe to eat”Join The Washington Chorus for a performance of “A Candlelight Christmas,” ringing in the holiday season with spirited brass, a festive chorus, and extra special guests to delight the whole family.Go to “Police at Teddy Roosevelt Island” because a fisherman snagged a hand grenade via magnet.
PFAS Fish Consumption Environmental Health Potomac River Anacostia River
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