This week the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) reported that there has been an unexpected rise in the mercury levels in northern pike & walleye fish caught in Minnesota. (article on NorthlandOutdoors.com)
The sample fish were collected from 845 lakes across Minnesota, and the statewide trend indicates more than just a local source of contamination. Local mercury contamination was on the decrease up until the mid 1990's. Since the mid 1990's the trend has reversed, due possibly to the increased use of coal fired plants in Asia. 
Fishing has been, and continues to be a favorite pass time in Minnesota. The new findings raise concern, but the MN Dept of Health has not adjusted it's recommendations for safe consumption of fish. (how much can I eat?).
Although the recent mercury increases may be from global sources, local efforts in protecting lake water quality have a big effect. The use of lakeshore buffer zones can help reduce contamination from rainwater run-off.
Minnesota lake property owners will be hearing more in the years to come about buffer zones and the use of rain gardens to reduce run-off as the MN DNR looks for ways to keep our lakes clean. (more on shoreland management)
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