FAQs • Monroe County, MI • CivicEngage

Can I eat fish caught in a contaminated water body?: Yes and no. If the only concern is E.coli contamination, yes, as long as the fish is thoroughly cooked to a temperature that meets or exceeds the requirements set forth by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) food code which is cooked above 145 degrees Fahrenheit. If the concern is toxins or other chemical constituents, then we recommend that the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (PDF) be followed, which in some cases would be no.

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Health Department - Bathing Beaches

1. Can I swim at a beach that has an advisory on it?: Although the beach is not closed, this office highly recommends not swimming at a beach that has an advisory issued.

2. Can I eat fish caught in a contaminated water body?: Yes and no. If the only concern is E.coli contamination, yes, as long as the fish is thoroughly cooked to a temperature that meets or exceeds the requirements set forth by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) food code which is cooked above 145 degrees Fahrenheit. If the concern is toxins or other chemical constituents, then we recommend that the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (PDF) be followed, which in some cases would be no.

3. If I live on the water, can I have my beach area tested?: Yes, a water sample could be taken to a Certified Laboratory (PDF). Please contact the laboratory that you want to use to obtain sample bottles, cost quotation and times that they will accept samples.