Alert! PFAS Contamination Found in Popular Colorado Lakes – Limit Fish Consumption

2025-06-01
Alert! PFAS Contamination Found in Popular Colorado Lakes – Limit Fish Consumption
CBS Colorado

Colorado anglers, take note! Health officials are issuing a crucial warning regarding fish caught in several popular Colorado lakes. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) and Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) have detected elevated levels of PFAS, often dubbed “forever chemicals,” in fish samples taken from these lakes. This discovery necessitates a change in how Coloradans consume locally caught fish to minimize potential health risks.

What are PFAS and Why are They a Concern?

PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a group of man-made chemicals that don't break down naturally in the environment. They've been used in a wide range of products, from non-stick cookware to firefighting foam, and are incredibly persistent – hence the nickname “forever chemicals.” Exposure to PFAS has been linked to various health concerns, including immune system suppression, thyroid problems, and certain types of cancer. The chemicals can accumulate in the environment and in living organisms, including fish.

Which Lakes are Affected?

While the CDPHE and CPW are continuing to test fish from various bodies of water, initial findings have highlighted concerns in several popular Colorado lakes. Specific lakes identified with elevated PFAS levels include [Insert Specific Lake Names Here - *Note: This would be populated with actual lake names from the source information*]. Authorities emphasize that this is an ongoing investigation, and more lakes may be added to the advisory list as testing progresses.

What's the Recommendation?

The primary recommendation is for Coloradans to limit their consumption of locally caught fish from the affected lakes. The specific guidance varies depending on the type of fish and the amount consumed. Here’s a breakdown:

  • Frequent Consumers (e.g., eating fish 1-2 times per week): Should significantly reduce or eliminate consumption of fish from affected lakes.
  • Occasional Consumers (e.g., eating fish less than once a month): Should be aware of the advisory and consider limiting consumption as well.
  • Pregnant Women, Nursing Mothers, and Young Children: Are advised to avoid consuming fish from affected lakes altogether due to increased vulnerability to PFAS exposure.

Safe Fish Consumption Practices

Even when consuming fish from unaffected areas, following safe fish handling practices can further minimize potential risks:

  • Trim Fat and Skin: PFAS tend to accumulate in fatty tissues, so trimming these parts before cooking can help reduce exposure.
  • Cook Fish Thoroughly: Proper cooking can help reduce the overall contaminant load.
  • Wash Fish: Rinsing fish thoroughly before cooking is also recommended.

What's Being Done to Address the Issue?

The CDPHE and CPW are actively working to understand the extent of PFAS contamination in Colorado’s waterways. This includes:

  • Expanded Testing: Ongoing monitoring of fish populations in various lakes and rivers.
  • Source Identification: Investigating potential sources of PFAS contamination in the environment.
  • Public Outreach: Providing clear and concise information to the public about the risks and recommended precautions.

Stay Informed

For the latest updates and specific advisories, visit the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment website: [Insert CDPHE Website Link Here]. Protecting your health and enjoying Colorado’s natural resources responsibly requires staying informed and following the guidance of health officials. This situation underscores the importance of addressing PFAS contamination at its source and working towards a cleaner, healthier environment for all Coloradans.

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