IMPACTS OF MERCURY CONTAMINATION IN THE SOUTHEASTERN UNITED-STATES

Mercury (Hg) contamination from a variety of point and non-point sourc es, including atmospheric inputs, is currently considered to be the mo st serious environmental threat to the well being of fish and wildlife resources in the southeastern United States, Fish consumption advisor ies have been issued in all ten states comprising the U.S. Fish and Wi ldlife Service's Southeast Region. Both freshwater and marine species have been affected with levels ranging as high as 7.0 ppm in some indi viduals. Many other species, including various species of reptiles, bi rds and mammals (including humans) are also contaminated. Impacts note d range from reproductive impairment to mortality.