Elevated PFAS In Lake Quinsigamond Prompts Fish Warning

WORCESTER, MA — Lake Quinsigamond is among 13 bodies of water where fish have tested positive for high levels of PFAS chemicals, prompting a warning to avoid eating fish caught in them.

The state Department of Public Health recently tested fish in lakes and ponds near state parks due to their popularity with anglers. The water at swimming areas did not test for elevated PFAS, only the fish, officials said.

The 13 bodies of water include: Ashland Reservoir; Chicopee Reservoir; Lake Cochituate in Natick; Dennison Lake in Winchendon; Dunn Pond in Gardner; Fearing Pond in Plymouth; Houghton's Pond in Milton; Pearce Lake in Saugus; Pequot Pond in Westfield; Lake Quinsigamond; Walden Pond in Concord; Wallum Lake in Douglas; and Watson's Pond in Taunton.

"DPH prioritized the testing of fish and surface water at these water bodies because they are popular locations for swimming and fishing. They are also located in communities in or near Environmental Justice Populations, where the existing burden of disease and exposure to sources of pollution are greatest," state officials said.

The advisory for each body of water is slightly different, and in some cases accompanies an existing advisory. For example, Lake Quinsigamond's advisory says vulnerable people like pregnant women and children under 12 should limit eating fish from the lake to one meal every six months. Others can limit eating fish to one meal every two months. Read the individual fish advisories here.

PFAS chemicals are common, having been used for years as coatings in items like nonstick pans and waterproof jackets. But the long-lasting chemicals have also leeched into local water supplies, prompting action in cities and towns across the state and nation.

"Based on studies of laboratory animals and people, exposure to certain PFAS has been associated with changes in liver and kidney function, changes in thyroid hormone and cholesterol levels, and immune system effects," DPH said in its advisory. "In addition, PFAS exposure has been shown to cause developmental effects to fetuses during pregnancy. Some studies also suggest an increased risk of developing cancer following long-term exposures to elevated levels of some PFAS."