The Mercury and PCB levels in the lower St. Louis River are so high that consumption restrictions apply to women and children (under 15).
This was created in honor of those standing up for water quality everywhere. Restrictions are: Only 1 meal/week for Pan fish and Bullhead, 1 meal/month of Walleye (under 20"), Pike, Bass, Catfish, Carp, Burbot and all other species. No Walleye or Muskies of 20". Risk for impaired development in children, harm to reproductive systems, higher risk of cancer, immune systems and possibility to thyroid hormone alterations are some of the risks with PCB's in the water and fish. Damage to developing brains (causing learning disabilities), memory loss, heart disease and loss of coordination affecting vision, hearing and speech are associated with the Mercury levels in the water/fish. (This according to the WI Dept. of Natural Resources, 2012). The restrictions continue and are becoming more serious.