Center for Integrative Environmental Health Sciences Participates in Ohio River Fish Contaminant Study

The University of Louisville’s Center for Integrative Environmental Health Sciences played a key role in the recent Participatory Science Fishing Day at the Falls of the Ohio State Park, where volunteers helped monitor the health of the Ohio River and its fish populations. Fish caught during the event, organized by the Kentucky Waterways Alliance (KWA) and UofL’s Christina Lee Brown Envirome Institute, were tested for contaminants like heavy metals, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Analysis by UofL researchers found that while most fish contained safe levels of contaminants, some, such as selenium and PFOS, exceeded recommended thresholds, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring. The data will support continued waterway restoration efforts and advocacy for cleaner water policies to protect the Ohio River, a critical source of drinking water for millions of people. In addition, the CIEHS Community Engagement Core created a one-page report back on the study to share findings with the local community. Read full article by UofLNews here.