Deer Consumption Advisory Issued in Northern Michigan Marsh Due to PFAS Contamination Concerns

‘Do Not Eat’ Advisory Issued For Deer at Northern Michigan Marsh Owing to PFAS Contamination

September 12, 2024

Concerns Over Chemical Contaminants

With deer hunting seasons just around the corner, a ‘Do Not Eat’ advisory has been issued for deer found around a marsh in northern Michigan over potential chemical contaminations. The advisory comes as a result of a concerning health issue caused by man-made chemicals, known as per-and polyfluorinated substances (PFAS), which have been found lodged in the muscles and livers of deer living around Clark’s Marsh in Iosco County.

PFAS: The ‘Forever Chemicals’

PFAS chemicals are notorious for their durability and resistance to breakdown and were commonly used in consumer products like nonstick cookware, stain-resistant clothing, and firefighting foam. The health department and natural resources agencies are growing increasingly concerned over the high levels of PFAS as they tend to accumulate in the environment because of their persistent nature. These forever chemicals have the ability to harm not only the wildlife but also humans.

Damage to Health and Environment

PFAS has been found unnaturally in food, water sources, and animals. The bonds that compose these chemicals are some of the strongest in the world, making their destruction a herculean task. Current research indicates that temperatures reaching 30,000 degrees Celsius may be required to permanently destroy them. PFAS have been linked to several serious health effects including liver damage and reduced fertility. These substances are also known for bio-accumulation through the food chain and pose significant risks to wildlife, with mammals and fish being particularly vulnerable.

Advisory in Place

The ‘Do Not Eat’ advisory, issued by the health department and natural resources agency, is a precautionary measure taken on behalf of the hunting community and the public. It applies to all animals taken from Clark’s Marsh in an effort to prevent possible health complications. A map indicating the advisory coverage area has been provided for easy reference.

As hunters gear up for the upcoming archery season, which begins on October 1, they are strongly advised to abstain from consuming any meat from animals hunted in this area. Future hunters are urged to take this advisory seriously as any exposure could cause potential threats to health and wellbeing. However, this does not mean hunting activities in the area should be halted completely; rather, caution should be applied when considering consumption of game taken from the area.

Response and Future Actions

In a recent report, high levels of PFAS were found in deer across several counties of northern Michigan. This alarming fact has sparked keen interest in developing methods to completely destroy these chemicals. For instance, researchers at Michigan State University are working on a promising new plasma technology intended for the ‘total destruction’ of PFAS. While it’s still early, the successful implementation of such technologies could pave the way for a safer and healthier ecosystem.

As this issue continues to unfold, the health department and natural resources agency are committed to further studies and health advisories to keep the community safe and informed. The concern over the finding of these potential contaminants around Clark’s Marsh sends a clear message of the importance of environmental health and serves as a warning for future use of such chemicals.