PFAS and the Outdoors: How “Forever Chemicals” Impact Hunting, Fishing, and Human Health

By Derrick R. Stallings – HuntingOfficer.com

Imagine heading out to your favorite fishing spot or deer stand, expecting a day of peace in the great outdoors. Now, picture discovering that your favorite lake or forest is tainted by invisible pollutants that could harm you, the wildlife you hunt, and the fish you catch. Unfortunately, this isn’t a distant scenario—it’s a growing reality caused by PFAS contamination. Let’s dive into what PFAS are, how they affect the environment and human health, and what’s being done about them.

What Are PFAS?

PFAS stands for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, a class of thousands of synthetic chemicals used in products since the 1940s. They’re found in everyday items like nonstick cookware, waterproof clothing, firefighting foam, and even food packaging. PFAS are dubbed “forever chemicals” because they don’t break down easily in the environment, persisting for decades in water, soil, and living organisms.

This durability, which makes PFAS so useful in manufacturing, is also their greatest threat. Once released, they spread rapidly through waterways, the food chain, and the air, infiltrating ecosystems and reaching people and wildlife alike.

PFAS and the Environment

For hunters and anglers, PFAS contamination has serious implications. These chemicals accumulate in animals and fish through bioaccumulation—when smaller organisms ingest PFAS-contaminated water or food and pass it up the food chain. Predatory species like bass, walleye, and even deer often show higher levels of PFAS in their bodies.

Take fish, for example. Many states are issuing advisories urging anglers to limit or avoid eating fish from certain lakes or rivers due to PFAS contamination. The same goes for wild game. Deer in Michigan, Maine, and other states have been found with high PFAS levels in their meat, prompting warnings against consumption. This puts a damper on traditions and livelihoods centered around hunting and fishing, not to mention the health risks of eating contaminated food.

How Do PFAS Affect the Human Body?

Consuming PFAS-contaminated fish, water, or wild game can lead to serious health issues. Research links PFAS exposure to:

• Cancer: Particularly kidney and testicular cancers.
• Hormonal Disruption: PFAS can interfere with thyroid and reproductive hormones.
• Immune System Suppression: Reduced ability to fight infections and respond to vaccines.
• Liver Damage: Elevated cholesterol and liver enzyme levels are common effects.
• Developmental Problems: Harmful effects on children, including low birth weight and developmental delays.

Because PFAS accumulate in the body over time, even small exposures can become a big problem after years of hunting, fishing, and eating local wildlife.

Where Do PFAS Come From?

PFAS pollution comes from a surprising variety of sources:

• Industrial Discharge: Factories producing or using PFAS release them into waterways and the air.
• Firefighting Foam: Airports and military bases are hotspots for PFAS contamination because of firefighting foam used in training and emergencies.
• Consumer Products: Everyday items like nonstick pans, stain-resistant carpets, and waterproof jackets shed PFAS into the environment during use and disposal.
• Landfills and Wastewater: When PFAS-laden products end up in landfills, the chemicals leach into groundwater. Similarly, wastewater treatment plants often fail to filter out PFAS effectively.

How Is the World Tackling PFAS?

Addressing PFAS contamination is no small task, but steps are being taken worldwide:

• Regulation: Many countries are restricting PFAS production and use. In the U.S., the EPA has introduced tighter limits on PFAS levels in drinking water, and states are taking independent actions to protect their natural resources.
• Research: Scientists are developing new technologies to break down PFAS in the environment. For example, researchers have found methods to destroy PFAS using extreme heat or specialized enzymes.
• Cleanup Efforts: Contaminated sites, including lakes, rivers, and military bases, are being prioritized for cleanup. While these projects are costly and time-consuming, they’re critical for reducing exposure.
• Public Awareness: Hunters, anglers, and communities are being educated on PFAS risks and how to minimize exposure, such as by following consumption advisories or sourcing drinking water from safer supplies.

What Can You Do?

If you’re a hunter, angler, or outdoor enthusiast, there are ways to protect yourself and the environment:

1. Stay Informed: Check your state’s fish and game consumption advisories.
2. Advocate for Action: Support policies that regulate PFAS use and fund cleanup efforts.
3. Practice Responsible Disposal: Avoid using products with PFAS, and dispose of them properly when you do.
4. Spread the Word: Share information about PFAS risks with your community, especially those who rely on hunting and fishing for food or income.

The Bottom Line

PFAS contamination is a sobering reminder that our actions have long-lasting impacts on the environment. For those who cherish hunting and fishing, it’s a call to action to protect the ecosystems and traditions we hold dear. By staying informed, pushing for change, and adopting safer practices, we can help reduce the reach of these “forever chemicals” and ensure the outdoors remain a haven for generations to come.

What do you think about PFAS and their impact on your favorite hunting or fishing spots? Let us know in the comments!