Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) has detected PFAS (per- and poly-fluorinated alkyl substances) in Kernot Lake, Morwell and is advising the public not to eat fish caught there.
PFAS are a group of man-made chemicals, many which have been in common use for many decades, including in historic firefighting foams and in-home products like non-stick pans and carpet treatments.
Because the use of PFAS is widespread and the chemicals are slow to break down, traces of PFAS are likely to be found in groundwater, surface water and soils in many urban areas.
While there is still no consistent evidence of the relationship between concentrations of PFAS in the environment and food and specific illness in humans, they can persist in humans for many years. EPA is taking a precautionary approach to minimise risk and recommends against consumption of animal products or water where PFAS levels are considered high.
Samples of sediment and surface water were taken from Kernot Lake.
“Analysis showed they contained levels of PFAS above drinking water concentrations and while no one drinks water from Kernot Lake, we have seen elevated concentrations in fish in other areas where similar concentrations have been recorded,” EPA Chief Environmental Scientist Dr Andrea Hinwood said.
“EPA is issuing precautionary advice not to consume any fish caught in Kernot Lake and will be continuing the investigation, conducting fish samples in the coming weeks.”
EPA is working with Latrobe City Council, which manages the effected waterways, to erect signage at the site and the Victorian Fisheries Authority to ensure recreational fishers are aware of the latest advice.
“We know Kernot Lake is a popular spot for fishing and has previously been stocked for recreational fishing, but it’s important people take this precaution and not consume the fish until we have more information,” Dr Hinwood said.
“To protect the community, EPA is taking a precautionary approach to PFAS working to minimise the risks of exposure to products and water containing elevated PFAS levels.”
For more information about PFAS visit https://www.epa.vic.gov.au/your-environment/land-and-groundwater/pfas-in-victoria