Region 1: Mercury in New England

Mercury in New England

Mercury is a naturally occurring element that is found in air, water, soil, and even coal. EPA New England recognizes mercury levels in the lakes and streams of the Northeast as one of the region's most significant ecological and health issues. New Englanders are mainly exposed to mercury when they consume fish and shellfish containing methylmercury. These pages provide information about mercury in New England, including regional sources of mercury and local fish consumption advisories.

For basic information about mercury, its health effects, how to handle spills and to learn what EPA is doing to reduce mercury emissions, select from the topics listed to the right or visit the national mercury home page.

NE Sources of Mercury: where does mercury come from in New England? NE Fish Consumption Advisories: learn what fish to avoid in which local waters EPA NE Mercury Efforts: what EPA is doing about mercury in New England NE State Mercury Links: links to other state sites with information about mercury NE Mercury Contacts: EPA staff contacts for New England Don't Mess with Mercury: This PSA developed by EPA about staying away from mercury Mission Mercury: view an educational video on mercury for middle-school students created by VT ANR along with Champlain College

When you are disposing of mercury thermometers, make sure you dispose of them properly in a household hazardous waste collection. If you have questions, contact your state environmental protection department or your local health department.