Know Your Catch: Safe Fish Consumption

From Coast to Table: A Tailored Approach to Fish Consumption Education

Going Coastal spearheaded an expansive fish consumption education program called “KNOW YOUR CATCH”, an initiative aimed at promoting sustainable and responsible fish consumption from the abundant waters of New York City. With a focus on anglers and vulnerable populations, including subsistence fishers, women of childbearing age, and children, this program is designed to enhance knowledge, foster healthy choices, and bridge cultural and linguistic gaps.

There is evidence that fish advisories often do not reach people who are catching and consuming local fish. We want families to understand something really important: the fish they catch from nearby waters might not always be safe to eat. The waters around our city sometimes have pollution, which can make fish not good for our health, especially for women of child-bearing age and children.

At the heart of the project is an immersive understanding of local fishing practices and consumption patterns. Through face-to-face surveys among Brooklyn’s coastal anglers conducted by a team of multilingual volunteers, we delved into their world, collecting invaluable data that was meticulously compiled into a Geographic Information System (GIS). This information was then shared through a comprehensive White Paper, offering insights that illuminate the path to healthier local fishing practices.

Understanding Our Waters, Nourishing Our Communities

We’re sharing information with anglers so they can make safe decisions. We talk to people who like fishing and ask them questions. We use this information to create helpful maps and guides. These guides tell families which fish are safer to eat and which ones they should avoid and which local waters are best for catching fish for consumption. For example, mercury exposure poses more health concerns for pregnant women than it does for older men. This way, they can enjoy fishing and eating fish without worrying about their health. 

Maps, brochures, and posters adorned with infographics and visuals bring the message to life. Recognizing the diversity of our fishing community, these materials are designed in English, Spanish, Chinese, Creole and Russian, ensuring that essential information transcends linguistic barriers. An innovative language-neutral poster and video serve as bridges, uniting communities through shared understanding.

A Universal Language: Visual Outreach for Diverse Communities

Investigating fishing habits, uncovering disparities in State Fish Consumption Health Advisories, and advocating for equitable guidelines became our mission, ensuring that every community, every angler, and every table is equally informed. Beyond surveys and outreach materials, the project takes strides to directly engage at-risk communities. Community centers, WIC offices, and youth programs served as conduits for knowledge dissemination. The “KNOW YOUR CATCH” program serves as an invaluable resource for fostering sustainable fishing practices, enhancing public health, and bridging the gaps in knowledge and awareness within the local fishing community and beyond.