The Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) has updated its list of lakes with consumption advisories for mercury. Eight Oklahoma lakes have been added since the last advisory was issued in 2013. Those lakes are:

• Arbuckle Lake
• Cushing Lake
• Meeker Lake
• Prague Lake
• Sportsman Lake
• Stroud Lake
• Wetumka Lake
• Wewoka Lake

Each of the above listed lakes has recommendations specific to that lake.

The consumption advisories are the result of testing done by DEQ with the cooperation of the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation (ODWC). Many of Oklahoma’s lakes have been tested to determine mercury levels. Currently, 40 lakes in the state have specific advisories for mercury.

DEQ recognizes the importance of the sport of fishing in Oklahoma. Fish provide many benefits that are essential for a healthy diet. Some fish do pose a higher risk for mercury contamination; therefore, DEQ encourages people to be mindful of the amount of fish they eat. DEQ actively promotes fishing and urges Oklahomans to enjoy the sport while following the suggested guidelines for fish consumption.

The levels of mercury in a lake do not affect the lake’s safety as a source of drinking water or for lake recreation such as swimming and boating.

For detailed information on specific lakes with consumption advisories for mercury, email fishadvisory@deq.ok.gov.

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