The Louisiana Department of Health announced Tuesday that four new waterways are now on the state’s mercury fish consumption advisory list. The Mermentau River, Lake Arthur, the Vermillion River and Bayou Tortue have been added after testing showed elevated mercury levels in local fish samples.
Updates to existing advisories
In addition to the new warnings, the department refreshed guidance for five long‑standing advisories: Bayou De Loutre and its associated lakes, the Boeuf River, Lake Bistineau, the Pearl River and Tew Lake. These updates reflect the latest testing data and clarify which species should be limited or avoided.
What the advisories mean
Louisiana now maintains 52 fish consumption advisories for mercury in freshwater bodies, plus an advisory covering certain offshore species in the Gulf of Mexico. An advisory does not forbid fishing or eating fish outright; rather, it advises the public to limit or avoid specific species that tend to accumulate higher mercury levels.
Mercury is a naturally occurring element that can also be released through industrial activity. When people consume fish with high mercury over time, the toxin can build up in the body and affect the brain and nervous system. Unborn children and children under age 7 are especially vulnerable because their nervous systems are still developing.
Who should pay close attention
The health department recommends that pregnant women, women who may become pregnant, nursing mothers, young children and anyone who eats fish regularly from the listed waters review the specific guidance for each waterway. The advisory documents, available on the department’s website, detail which species—such as largemouth bass, catfish or crappie—should be limited or avoided.
For example, the updated Bayou De Loutre advisory now advises limiting consumption of largemouth bass to no more than one serving per month for the most sensitive groups, while other species may be eaten in moderation.
How to stay informed
Residents are encouraged to check the Louisiana Department of Health’s online advisory portal before harvesting or purchasing fish from any of the listed waterways. The portal provides maps, species‑specific limits and printable notices for local anglers, restaurants and retailers.
By keeping the public informed and promoting safer eating habits, the department aims to protect the health of Louisiana families while still supporting the state’s rich fishing traditions.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
