The New York State Department of Health is requesting feedback from the public as it works to update advisory signs at fishing access sites along the Hudson River. These signs provide information for anglers about health recommendations related to consuming fish caught in the river.
State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald stated, “Fishing is a popular activity in the Hudson Valley and fish are an important part of a healthy diet. However, some fish contain chemicals at levels that may be harmful to humans. We are working hard to make the signs along the Hudson River clear and actionable for anglers so they understand our advice for eating the fish they catch, and we’d like to hear from the public on which signs work best.”
The department is redesigning these advisory signs and has launched an online survey aimed at collecting input from local governments and area anglers regarding sign design options and how easy they are to understand. The survey will remain open until November 2025, with plans to replace older signage by summer 2026 based on collected feedback.
The Hudson River Fish Advisory Outreach Project aims to inform anglers about potential health impacts of eating locally caught fish due to chemical contamination found in certain species. The affected area spans 200 miles from Washington County through New York City along what is known as the Hudson River SuperFund site.
Department staff, alongside their partners, conduct outreach efforts throughout fishing season at various community events and festivals, promoting awareness of advisories among diverse groups of anglers.
Signs warning about health risks are posted at river access points—with landowner permission—and available free of charge in English, Spanish, and Chinese for municipalities or property owners who request them. Communities are encouraged to pair these warnings with brochures and maps showing public access locations.
A database tracks roughly 120 posting sites between Troy’s Federal Dam and Manhattan’s Battery; annual inspections help ensure compliance by notifying municipalities if re-posting is needed. Residents can verify if their community displays current signage by visiting an interactive Google map on the project’s website.
Additional information about statewide advisories can be accessed through health.ny.gov/fish.
