Don’t fudge fish standard

Very soon, Washington is going to establish its fish consumption rates, a very important factor when the state constructs its water quality standards. Water quality standards are the benchmarks that dictate how clean our water is and the basis for what we, as a state, will hold polluters accountable for.

If we set our fish consumption rate low, more toxic pollution is permitted to enter our waters. Currently, the state estimates that people eat less than a cracker-sized amount of fish per day (6.5 grams), which is one of the lowest rates in the country.

One of Washington’s most striking features is its culture that embraces fisheries and ecology. I have lived in Washington for three years, and Washington’s intrinsic pride in the fish and other seafood that comes from within its borders is certainly unique. Fish from Washington are prominently featured on menus throughout the state, and rightfully so.

Washington’s fish consumption rate should reflect our actual consumption of fish and seafood, and the increased fish consumption rate of our large and most vulnerable populations: tribal members, recreational fishers, and Asian and Pacific island immigrants.

Pilar Rodarte

Spokane