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The Problem

The Spokane River and Lake Spokane violate the water quality standards for the presence of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in several segments. These segments have been place on the state Water Quality Assessments (303[d]) list of impaired water bodies.

In the past, PCBs have been used for numerous commercial and industrial purposes, including uses as coolants and lubricants in electrical equipment such as transformers and capacitors. The United States banned the manufacture of PCBs in 1977 because they build up in the environment (i.e., bio-accumulate) and can be a health concern to humans and wildlife. PCB exposure can occur if you:

• eat food, including fish, meat, and dairy products that is contaminated by PCBs.
• drink PCB-contaminated water.
• breathe air near hazardous waste sites that contain PCBs.

Along and in the Spokane River the major health concern is the consumption of PCB-contaminated fish. In July of 2003 the Washington State Departments of Health and Ecology revised a Health Advisory for Spokane River Fish Consumption (PDF) which was originally issued in 1999. Please see the health advisory for more information on preferred fish to be eaten, proper amounts, and proper preparation methods. In addition, please refer to the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife fishing regulations along the river. Certain segments of the river are designated catch and release only.

 

Environmental Improvements on the Spokane River (Ecology Publication)

 

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