Fish Consumption Advisory Program Outreach

Safe-Eating Guidelines are communicated using a variety of media. Information about the Guidelines is available in print, on the MDH and Department of Natural Resources (DNR) websites, and through presentations at meetings and community gatherings.

• Order Fish Consumption Materials (Safe-Eating Guidelines)
• Food Consumption Guidance: Waterbody Specific Safe-Eating Guidelines
• DNR LakeFinder

Outreach efforts are particularly directed toward women of childbearing age and people who eat a lot of fish. MDH also works to provide information to healthcare providers and others who may be in contact with these higher-risk groups.

When updated information is available, MDH issues a press release to notify the public. In addition to highlighting the revised materials, these announcements include information on new or important issues related to the fish consumption program. Through these  press releases, MDH tries to elicit media coverage (newspaper, radio and TV) to increase public awareness. Both MDH and DNR distribute press releases and program announcements to media contacts.

Printed materials are available free of charge. When Safe-Eating Guidelines or other materials are revised, MDH encourages past and prospective contacts to order and distribute them. Distribution of fish advisory materials by organizations other than MDH is voluntary. MDH specifically requests that local public health agencies; local and state Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) programs; and health care providers, including the major HMOs in MN distribute educational materials and discuss fish consumption with their clients.

Other organizations that distribute MDH’s printed brochures include  local and state parks, environmental organizations, retailers, and other state agencies.