Bay Fish and Wildlife Monitoring

Through the San Francisco Bay Regional Monitoring Program (RMP), we have monitored PFAS in Bay sport fish since 2009, and have found levels in many fish exceeding advisory thresholds set by other states for safe fish consumption to protect public health. PFAS pollution is an environmental justice issue, as local Tribes and disadvantaged communities that depend on fishing for sustenance and for traditional cultural practices face higher risks and greater harms. SFEI is working with state, regional, and local stakeholders, as well as Bay Area community groups, to effectively tackle the issue of PFAS in Bay fish to protect human and ecological health.

Periodic RMP monitoring of Bay harbor seals and cormorant eggs has also revealed concerning concentrations of PFAS, particularly in South Bay populations. Even low levels of PFAS pollution can harm reproduction and immune function in wildlife.

Bay Water and Sediment Monitoring

The RMP has identified PFAS pollution in Bay surface water and sediment. In 2021, PFAS were in 90% of 22 places where water was sampled across the Bay, with levels in the South Bay notably higher than elsewhere. Continued studies of PFAS in water and sediment are ongoing as part of the RMP’s Status and Trends monitoring as well as other special studies. Future data can determine the effectiveness of recent state bans on PFAS in cosmetics, clothing, carpets, and many other consumer goods. These findings can also help build predictive models to assess risks to wildlife and people.