South Dakota DOH Issues New Fish Consumption Advisories

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Published February 24th, 2026

Detected March 17th, 2026

Summary

The South Dakota Department of Health, in collaboration with other state agencies, has issued new fish consumption advisories for 2026 based on comprehensive sampling. These advisories are primarily related to mercury concentrations in specific fish species from various lakes across the state.

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What changed

The South Dakota Department of Health (DOH), in partnership with the Department of Agriculture & Natural Resources (DANR) and Game, Fish & Parks (GFP), has released new fish consumption advisories for 2026. These advisories, based on mercury concentrations found in fish samples, target specific species and sizes in Enemy Swim Lake, Lynn Lake, Goose Lake, and Lake Alice. The advisories aim to inform the public about potential health risks associated with consuming certain fish.

Regulated entities and the public are encouraged to review the updated advisories on the DOH website to make informed decisions regarding fish consumption. While these are advisories and not strictly binding regulations, they serve as important guidance for public health. No specific compliance deadlines or penalties are mentioned, as the advisories are informational in nature.

What to do next

Review the new fish consumption advisories issued by the South Dakota DOH for 2026.
Inform relevant stakeholders and the public about advisories pertaining to specific water bodies and fish species.
Consult the DOH website for the complete list of advisories and any further guidance.

Source document (simplified)

South Dakota Department of Health Issues New Fish Consumption Advisories Following Comprehensive Sampling 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 24, 2026
MEDIA CONTACT: Tia Kafka, DOHMedia@state.sd.us

South Dakota Department of Health Issues New Fish Consumption Advisories Following Comprehensive Sampling

PIERRE, S.D. – The South Dakota Department of Health (DOH), in partnership with the Department of Agriculture & Natural Resources (DANR) and Game, Fish & Parks (GFP), has completed its annual fish collection and sampling program. This joint effort aims to assess the safety of fish consumption in various water bodies across the state.

"Our commitment to public health and safety drives the annual fish sampling program,” said Department of Health Secretary Melissa Magstadt. “The collaboration between the DOH, DANR, and GFP ensures that South Dakotans have the most up-to-date information regarding fish consumption advisories.”

The DOH encourages the public to stay informed about these advisories and take necessary precautions to ensure the health and well-being of themselves and their families.

New advisories for 2026 are as follows:

Enemy Swim Lake (Day County) – Limit consumption of Walleye over 24”
Lynn Lake (Day County) – Limit consumption of Northern Pike over 29”
Goose Lake (Codington County) – Limit consumption of Walleye over 18” and White Bass over 15”
Lake Alice (Deuel County) – Limit consumption of Walleye over 25” These advisories are based on Mercury concentrations in fish samples and are intended to provide the public with essential information to make informed decisions about their dietary choices. The mercury found in fish tissue is mostly from atmospheric deposition from sources outside of South Dakota.

“We encourage everyone to check the DOH website for the latest advisories and take necessary precautions when enjoying locally caught fish," continued Secretary Magstadt.

For more information and the complete list of Fish Consumption Advisories, please visit the DOH website.

At the heart of the Department of Health’s mission is a simple goal: to protect and improve the health of all South Dakotans. The department is entrusted with the vital task of promoting wellness, preventing disease, and ensuring access to quality healthcare for all South Dakotans.

February 24, 2026
Food and Lodging Safety | Healthy Living

Contact:
DOHMedia@state.sd.us

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