Human Health Risk Assessment Mercury in Fish in Central Alberta Lac la Nonne and Lac Ste Anne

Mercury enters the environment through various natural processes and human activities. Methylmercury is transformed from inorganic forms of mercury via methylation by microorganisms in natural waters, and can accumulate in some fish. Humans are exposed to very low levels of mercury directly from the air, water and food. Fish consumers may be exposed to relatively higher levels of methylmercury by eating mercury-containing fish from local rivers and lakes. Methylmercury can accumulate in the human body over time. Because methylmercury is a known neurotoxin, it is necessary to limit human exposure. Lac la Nonne and Lac Ste Anne are two large lakes in Central Alberta. The First Nations and Métis net licenses are issued for Lac la Nonne and Lac Ste Anne. Local anglers can harvest northern pike, yellow perch, burbot and cisco on Lac la Nonne and lake whitefish, yellow perch and burbot on Lac Ste Anne. Recreational boaters and cottage owners are access to the lakes as well. Health Canada, Alberta Energy and Natura