The DNR has announced a series of public information sessions and public hearings on their proposed rule for reducing the mercury poisoning of Wisconsin's fish and aquatic resources.  The new rule aims to reduce mercury pollution from Wisconsin sources by 90% over the next 15 years.

The latest state fish consumption advisory, covering all of Wisconsin's 15,057 inland lakes, advises pregnant women, children under 15, and women of childbearing age to limit their fish consumption.  No cooking or filleting techniques can remove the dangerous levels of mercury from fish flesh.

Mercury is a neurotoxin that harms the brain and nervous system.  Numerous studies warn that pregnant women who eat fish from high-mercury Wisconsin waters could have children with reduced or delayed development in the areas of memory, language, and coordination depending on the amount of fish eaten.  Mercury can also harm wildlife, particularly creatures that feed on fish laced with the poison.

Mercury contamination begins in the smokestacks of coal-burning power plants, waste incinerators, and factories.  The pollutant falls with rain and snow all across the state, contaminating even pristine northern lakes located far from industry.

The DNR's public information sessions will provide background and answer questions for the public.  But the public hearings are critical to putting a strong mercury rule in place.  A record of public comments will be gathered at the hearings and used in the final preparation of the new rule.

If you have any questions or need more specifics, contact Marc Looze at mlooze@chorus.net or call 608-251-7020.  The schedule for the meetings and hearings follows: