Local scientist to present nationally recognized research on manmade water contaminants

Talk about it

SAUK CENTRE, MN – The Sauk River Watershed District (SRWD) is hosting an educational presentation on chemical contaminants in Minnesota streams and lakes.

It will be led by Heiko L. Schoenfuss, PhD, a professor of anatomy at St. Cloud State University and the Director of the school’s Aquatic Toxicology Laboratory. This education forum is set for Wednesday, May 18 at Albany High School.

Schoenfuss has spent more than a decade conducting field research on endocrine active chemicals, or the introduction of manmade contaminants into lakes and streams. He will share highlights of what that research has uncovered, discuss possible repercussions for all Minnesotans, and answer questions about what can be done to counteract this development before it’s too late.

“It’s not time to sound alarms yet, but our message is that these contaminants are much more prevalent than anyone expected in lakes and streams that are literally in some of our own back yards,” Schoenfuss said. “It’s not fully understood yet what sort of impact that can have on resident fish populations, but our state prides itself on how pristine our environments are and we need to turn some attention to this cautionary tale and how to minimize any negative effects.”

Biological indicators of endocrine active chemicals – chemicals that may block the natural hormones in fish or other organisms – have been detected in wild fish throughout Minnesota at sites directly downstream from wastewater-treatment plant effluent. However, observations also indicate that other sources of contaminants (runoff from land surfaces, atmospheric deposition and inputs from onsite septic systems) exist upstream from the discharge of wastewater-treatment plants.

“Minimizing the negative effects of contaminants begins with education and staying ahead of the curve,” Schoenfuss said. “For that, you must have the boots on the ground to help spread the word, which is why it’s crucial to have an ally like the Sauk River Watershed District.”

“We’re fortunate to have an authority like Dr. Schoenfuss, whose research is receiving national attention, work and live within our watershed,” said SRWD Administrator Holly Kovarik. “His presentation is a way for us to educate our residents on the complexities and science of water contaminants, which is one of the watershed’s primary missions.”

What: Citizen’s Forum on chemical contaminants in MN lakes and streams

When: Wednesday, May 18 at 7 p.m.

Where: Albany High School Auditorium and Theater, 30 Forest Avenue, Albany MN

Tags: regional news, news, updates, environment, water, lakes