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.
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
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