Great Lakes Botulism Type E Coordination and Response Initiative

Botulism is now implicated in thousands of bird, fish, and amphibian mortalities across the Great Lakes each year. Infected carcasses wash ashore and pose a threat to wildlife and pets. The exact mechanism causing this recent resurgence remains unknown. Addressing this problem is beyond the capability of any single agency/organization. A variety of agencies are working on aspects of the issue from their respective missions/authorities, but we lack an ongoing method for coordinating these efforts.

The Coastal Health section of the Great Lakes Regional Collaboration Strategy to Restore and Protect the Great Lakes recommends "Research to clarify sources and transport of biotoxins (i.e., botulism) through foodweb."  The Great Lakes Botulism Type E Coordination and Response Initiative is a response to this recommendation.

• Original Botulism Initiative November 2008
• June 2008 Great Lakes Botulism Coordination Workshop Proceedings (PDF, 970Kb)  

For further information about the Great Lakes Botulism Type E Coordination and Response Initiative, please contact:

James Schardt
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
(312) 353 - 5085
schardt.james@epa.gov