Fish and wildlife resources of the United States must endure many hardships to survive and thrive. Among these hardships is the threat posed by exposure to environmental contaminants. Some environmental contaminants (e.g., mercury) may be naturally present in the environment, while others may be introduced through human activities (e.g., polychlorinated biphenyls or PCBs). Not all contaminants may be harmful to animals or occur in does high enough to have an adverse effect on fish and wildlife. There are ample instances throughout our recent history, however, that clearly demonstrate that fish and wildlife exposure to certain environmental contaminants results in tissue accumulation, biomagnification through food chains, and adverse effects. Environmental Contaminants Program MissionThe mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is to work with others to conserve, protect, and enhance the nations's fish and wildlife and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. The Maine Field Office's Environmental Contaminants Program helps accomplish the Service's overall mission by:
Send comments or questions about the Service's environmental contaminants program in Maine to steve_mierzykowski@fws.gov Created 3/2001. Reformatted 4/2010. |
