Angler Perspective on Fish Tumors in the St. Lawrence River Area of Concern (AOC)

The St. Lawrence River Area of Concern (AOC) is one of the five International areas identified under the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement (GLWQA) as having environmentally degraded water quality, primarily by industrial pollution. AOC jurisdiction is multi-national and shared by the United States of America, Canada, New York State, Provinces of Ontario and Quebec, and the Mohawks of Akwesasne. Assessment of fish liver lesions and external anomalies were conducted 2012-2014 in the southern portions of the St. Lawrence River waters and connecting channels by the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe’s Environment Division (SRMTED). Over the same period of time, SRMTED conducted public outreach and angler surveys to ascertain the public opinion on fish tumors and anomalies in the local indigenous and non-indigenous communities of impact. Poster presentation will display liver histological results, angler survey methods and results, and most effective methods to engage the fishing community.