Lake Boon Fish Consumption Advisory

/

PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUCEMENT

Lake Boon Fish Consumption Advisory

On May 23, 2024, the MA Department of Public Health (DPH) notified the Hudson Board of Health of a new fish consumption advisory for Lake Boon in Hudson and Stow. The advisory was issued due to elevated levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) measured in fish that were sampled from Lake Boon in 2022 by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP). Findings were summarized in a MassDEP report issued in December 2023.

PFAS were measured in fish sampled from Lake Boon at a level that exceeds the DPH action level of 0.22 parts per billion (ppb). This indicates that the daily consumption of fish from the waterbody may pose a potential health concern.

This new advice is the most conservative advisory considering both previous and new advice based on measurements in fish from each waterbody.

DPH is recommending that sensitive populations should not eat Black Crappie and Largemouth Bass from Lake Boon and should limit consumption of other fish to 1 meal/6 months. The general population should limit consumption of all fish to 1 meal/2 months.

According to DPH, fishing for recreation is safe in such waterbodies, if you do not eat the fish. Potential exposure to PFAS associated with swimming, wading, and boating would be much less than exposure from drinking water or eating fish containing PFAS. These recreational activities are considered safe because they would not result in significant exposure over a long period of time, and because very little PFAS are absorbed through the skin.

PFAS are found at low levels in the environment, consumer products, and food, thus it is nearly impossible to eliminate all exposure. DPH recommends following fish consumption advisories at tested waterbodies and eating a variety of fish from safe sources.

For additional information, please see attached/visit the links below. If you have questions, please contact the Environmental Toxicology Program at the Massachusetts Department of Public Health/Bureau of Climate and Environmental Health at 617-624-5757.

/ /

Hudson Health

The Hudson Health Department works to promote health and wellness of our residents through prevention and control of disease and injury. The department is guided by the Hudson Board of Health.