No, it is not recommended to eat fish from the Guadalupe River.
Health Advisory for the Guadalupe River Watershed
Health officials advise against consuming any fish caught from the Guadalupe River and several associated water bodies. This recommendation is in place due to concerns about contaminants that can accumulate in fish over time, posing potential health risks to those who consume them.
Affected Water Bodies
The advisory specifically applies to the Guadalupe River and the following interconnected water bodies within the same system:
- Alamitos Creek
- Almaden Lake
- Almaden Reservoir
- Calero Creek
- Calero Reservoir
- Guadalupe Creek
- Guadalupe Reservoir
- Guadalupe River
- Associated percolation ponds
Why Health Advisories Are Issued
Fish consumption advisories are issued by health and environmental agencies when certain levels of contaminants, such as mercury or polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), are found in fish from specific locations. These substances can be harmful, especially to vulnerable populations like pregnant women, nursing mothers, and young children. Advisories are a crucial tool to protect public health by guiding people on safe fish consumption practices or advising against consumption altogether when risks are too high.
What Anglers Should Do
When fishing in any public waterway, it's always advisable to check for local fish consumption advisories. These guidelines provide crucial information to help anglers make informed decisions about whether to eat their catch, how much to eat, or if certain types of fish should be avoided entirely. Following these recommendations helps protect public health and ensures a safer fishing experience.
