Saud Anwar

Consumption Advisory for Fish in Hockanum River; Elevated Levels of PFAS Found in Samples

The Department of Public Health and Department of Energy and Environmental Protection today issued a consumption advisory for fish caught in the Hockanum River, specifically a stretch of the river starting below the Shenipsit Lake dam in Vernon through to the Connecticut River. Sections of the river flowing through Ellington, Vernon, Manchester and East Hartford are included in the consumption advisory.

“Studies on PFAS substances find that they can negatively impact human health,” said Sen. Anwar. “In recent years, the General Assembly has taken action to restrict potential PFAS pollution because of potential circumstances like this. I join the Department of Public Health and DEEP in asking residents who fish in the Hockanum River to avoid eating any fish they catch until it can be confirmed they are safe to consume.”

DEEP reported locations along the Hockanum River from Vernon to the Connecticut River will likely have elevated levels of PFAS in fish, with the advisory including Union Pond in Manchester, several small ponds on the Hockanum River in East Hartford and the Tankerhoosen River.

DEEP tested 30 samples of fish, and those tissue samples showed PFAS above levels considered safe for human consumption.

While fish are not safe for consumption in these areas, fishing and boating remain safe, DPH and DEEP said. Signs will be posted at affected areas.

Long-term exposure to PFAS can lead to increased cholesterol, increased liver enzymes, change in immune response, increases in high blood pressure or pre-eclampsia during pregnancy and increased chance of thyroid disease, developmental defects and cancers, including kidney and testicular cancers, according to DPH.