PFAS Contamination in Maine: Wildlife Consumption Advisories and Health Guidelines
The consumption of wild game in Maine is deeply rooted in the state’s hunting culture, with meat from deer, moose, and turkey providing a lean and local protein source valued for both nutrition and sustainability. Hunting seasons are highly anticipated, especially during the fall, as they offer an opportunity for residents to gather game while engaging in traditional outdoor activities.
Recent PFAS Advisories
The Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife (MDIFW) has recently intensified its monitoring and advisories around PFAS contamination in wild game. PFAS, or per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances, are synthetic chemicals that do not break down easily in the environment, earning them the nickname “forever chemicals.” Maine has been particularly affected by PFAS contamination due to past industrial practices, including the widespread use of sludge as fertilizer on farms across the state.
In October 2024, MDIFW issued a "do not eat" advisory for wild deer and turkey harvested near Unity, Albion, and Freedom. Testing in these areas revealed high levels of PFAS in both the animals and the environment, particularly in the vicinity of the Casella Organics facility near Unity and the eastern section of Albion along Route 202. Wildlife feeding in these regions has absorbed PFAS, which then bioaccumulate in their meat and organs. The advisory aims to protect the health of those who hunt and consume game meat, as prolonged PFAS exposure can contribute to health risks such as certain cancers, liver damage, and reproductive issues.
Background and Broader Impact
Maine's PFAS contamination issues have roots in agricultural practices from the 1970s, when sludge, often containing PFAS, was promoted as an alternative to commercial fertilizers. Over decades, PFAS from these sludge applications entered local soils and groundwater, affecting wildlife and domestic water sources. Testing has shown that more than a third of Unity’s wells have unsafe PFAS levels, with clusters of high contamination found near areas where sludge was heavily applied. The problem extends beyond central Maine, as PFAS-related advisories were also issued in areas like Fairfield and Waterville starting in 2021.
Health Precautions and Hunting Practices
For hunters, these advisories impact traditional practices, particularly as turkey and deer hunting seasons coincide with the advisory periods. Officials encourage hunters to stay informed on advisory zones and consider these guidelines when selecting areas to hunt. Outside of PFAS-specific zones, hunting for wild game remains a cherished practice, with game meat serving as a nutritious, free-range alternative to store-bought options.
To ensure safety, MDIFW recommends following all advisory guidelines and remaining updated on future announcements. For those consuming wild game outside advisory zones, it is also helpful to follow standard preparation practices, such as removing visible fat, which can concentrate any environmental contaminants.
For further details or to stay updated on advisories and specific areas affected, you can refer to the:
