This course will help attendees understand which chemical contaminants can be found in fish and shellfish and why they are of concern to those who eat these resources.
The workshop will allow participants to learn the scientific methods used to assess which chemicals are in their subsistence resources and their concentrations. There will also be an emphasis on learning the calculations used to assess risk so attendees can understand the potential for harm. Native and other rural groups throughout Alaska more often rely on subsistence resources to a far greater degree than most other locations in the US. These higher consumption rates can change the results of the risk calculations. Course participants will learn what potential concerns there can be with the increased exposure due to these higher consumption rates. Course discussion will also help attendees understand the ways of limiting exposure through limiting consumption rates and different preparation methods.
Attendees will also learn the various methods for collecting fish and shellfish for sample analysis in addition to where to look for information on already analyzed samples like fish consumption advisories. These reports help provide vital information in order to make decisions related to the potential for harm from these exposures to contaminants.
Topics:
1. Which chemicals are likely in fish and shellfish
2. How to collect samples to have analyzed
3. Why be concerned about these chemicals in food
4. How we make decisions about allowable levels
5. Where to look for more information about already analyzed samples (e.g. fish consumption advisories) and what potential concerns should be.
6. How to limit exposure (e.g. limiting consumption, preparation methods, etc.)

Intended Audience: This course is designed for tribal members, practitioners and agency personnel, including toxicologists, biologists, ecologists, hydrologists, planners and regulators responsible for assessing contaminants in fish and shellfish and also for those seeking a greater understanding of the contaminants in these subsistence resources.

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Anchorage, AK View details    April 24, 2014 - April 24, 2014