In Ridgway, Colo. – A recent study by Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) has found that fish from Ridgway Reservoir and the San Miguel River are safe to eat as long as people follow statewide fish consumption guidelines.

The study was conducted in response to concerns from anglers about the potential for metal contamination in fish from these bodies of water. Historic mining activity in the Uncompahgre River valley and the San Miguel River has raised the possibility that fish in these areas could be contaminated with metals such as cadmium, copper, zinc, and lead.

To test for metal contamination, CPW submitted fish tissue samples from Ridgway Reservoir and the San Miguel River to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE). The CDPHE tested the fish tissue for all four metals of concern.

The results of the study showed that all of the fish tissue samples had very low concentrations of metals or were undetectable. This means that the fish from Ridgway Reservoir and the San Miguel River are safe to eat, according to the CDPHE.

“We are pleased to report that the fish from these water bodies are safe to eat,” said Eric Gardunio, a CPW aquatic biologist. “We appreciate the public’s concern about this issue and we are committed to ensuring that the fish in our state are safe for anglers to catch and eat.”

The CDPHE recommends that people eating fish from Ridgway Reservoir and the San Miguel River follow statewide fish consumption guidelines for mercury. These guidelines are based on the latest scientific research and are designed to protect public health.

The statewide fish consumption guidelines for mercury are as follows:

• Adults: Up to 12 ounces per week
• Children 12 and under: Up to 6 ounces per week
• Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding: Up to 6 ounces per week

CPW regularly monitors all fisheries in the state, including Ridgway Reservoir and the San Miguel River. The agency will continue to monitor these water bodies to ensure that the fish remain safe to eat.

“We are committed to providing anglers with safe and healthy fish to catch and eat,” Gardunio said. “We will continue to work with our partners to monitor these water bodies and to keep the public informed about the safety of the fish.”

In addition to the statewide fish consumption guidelines, there are a few other things that anglers can do to reduce their exposure to metals in fish:

• Avoid eating the head, liver, and other internal organs of fish, as these parts tend to have higher concentrations of metals.
• Cook fish thoroughly. This will help to reduce the amount of mercury that is absorbed by the body.
• Choose fish that are lower in mercury, such as salmon, trout, and cod.

By following these tips, anglers can enjoy the benefits of eating fish without worrying about their health.

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