Toxicity Threatens Fish Off Long Island Coast

John Mitty Thursday, August 22, 2013

According to scientists, a toxic tide off the east end of Long Island poses a threat to fish and shellfish.  The tide is visible off the coast to residents as reddish-brown water.  The color of the water is indicative of the rust which is part of the contamination.  Experts say that the tide poses no threat to human health, but that fish caught in the tide can be killed within hours.  Shellfish can perish in the tide within just several days. 

While the tide is not currently a threat to human health, it could become one if the problem gets worse, making the water un-swimmable and un-drinkable.  Since fish and shellfish are dying off, it could pose a threat to fishermen who make their living off of the coastal waters.  It could also have an adverse effect on tourism.  Right now, the tide is spreading, and residents are concerned that not enough is being done to eliminate the contamination in the water.  The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation refused to comment on the matter, owing to a pending lawsuit.  The exact cause of the toxins entering the water is unclear from current reports.  It is vital that something be done to clean up Long Island’s water if the tourism and fishing industries are to continue to thrive unhindered.

jmitty@longislandyellowpages.com

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