The Great Lakes Eagle Health team has embarked on a crucial mission to track PFAS pollution in the Wisconsin River by conducting blood tests on young bald eagles. During their recent expedition in Nekoosa, Wisconsin, the team faced challenges as they navigated various terrains in search of active eagle nests. Despite their efforts, early attempts yielded disappointing results, with two nests proving to be unoccupied.
Dan Goltz, a wildlife biologist with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and a member of the climbing team, illustrated the day’s frustrations by recounting his ascent of a 70-foot tree. Upon reaching the top, he discovered an empty nest, a moment that encapsulated the difficulties of the mission.
Understanding PFAS and Its Impact
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, commonly known as PFAS, are a group of man-made chemicals that have raised environmental and health concerns due to their persistent nature. These substances, found in numerous industrial applications and consumer products, have been linked to adverse health effects, including impacts on the immune system and developmental issues in wildlife.
The Great Lakes Eagle Health team aims to assess the extent of PFAS contamination in the region through the analysis of blood samples from young eagles. Bald eagles serve as an important indicator species, reflecting the health of their ecosystem. Their blood can reveal valuable information about the levels of PFAS exposure in the environment.
The team’s research is particularly significant for the Wisconsin River, a vital waterway that supports diverse wildlife and communities. By tracking pollution levels through these birds, scientists hope to gain insights into the broader environmental challenges facing the area.
Challenges and Next Steps
Despite setbacks in locating active nests, the team remains determined. Each expedition provides an opportunity to gather essential data that could influence local conservation efforts. Future attempts will focus on areas with a higher likelihood of finding nesting pairs, thus increasing the chances of obtaining the necessary blood samples for analysis.
The Great Lakes Eagle Health team’s work is vital not only for understanding the extent of PFAS pollution but also for informing policy decisions and conservation strategies in Wisconsin and beyond. As they continue their fieldwork, the hope is to uncover critical information that can lead to improved environmental health and protection for both wildlife and human populations.
The efforts of the Great Lakes Eagle Health team underscore the importance of ongoing research into environmental contaminants. Their commitment to tracking and addressing PFAS pollution reflects a growing recognition of the need for action in preserving the health of natural ecosystems.
