Montreal’s Lachine Canal has long been a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts, but recent reports have raised concerns about the safety of consuming fish caught in the canal.
According to a study conducted by the Montreal Public Health Department, fish caught in the Lachine Canal contain high levels of contaminants such as mercury, PCBs, and lead. These toxins can have serious health effects, especially for pregnant women and young children.
The study, which tested fish caught in the canal between 2015 and 2019, found that all species of fish contained levels of contaminants that exceeded Health Canada’s guidelines for safe consumption. This includes popular catches such as bass, pike, and carp.
The Lachine Canal is a popular fishing spot due to its accessibility and variety of fish species. However, the canal’s history as an industrial waterway has left it polluted with chemicals and heavy metals. This contamination has made its way into the fish population, making them unsafe for consumption.
The Montreal Public Health Department is urging people to avoid eating fish caught in the Lachine Canal and to instead opt for fish from cleaner bodies of water. They also recommend thoroughly washing hands and equipment after handling fish from the canal.
In response to the study, the City of Montreal has put up warning signs along the canal, advising against consuming fish caught in the area. They are also working on a plan to clean up the canal and improve its water quality.
Fishing is a beloved pastime for many, but it is important to prioritize our health and safety. The findings of this study serve as a reminder to be cautious when consuming fish from urban waterways and to be aware of potential contamination.
While the Lachine Canal may have been a popular fishing spot in the past, it is crucial to listen to the warnings and avoid consuming fish caught in its waters. The health risks associated with consuming contaminated fish are not worth the risk.
In conclusion, the Lachine Canal may still be a beautiful and popular spot for fishing, but it is important to prioritize our health and avoid consuming fish caught in its polluted waters. Let us hope that the City of Montreal’s efforts to clean up the canal will make it a safe and enjoyable spot for fishing once again.
