Fishermen's Right to Know

Just below the H. Neely Henry Dam on the Coosa River, Mr. Woods catches catfish to fry and eat. Like many lakes and rivers in Alabama, this spot has a fish consumption advisory, indicating that the fish may contain dangerous levels of mercury and other contaminants. The Alabama Department of Public Health suggests limiting or avoiding consumption of some fish species in certain locations--information found on the agency’s website--but there is no legal requirement to post signs for fishermen. Where does that leave Mr. Woods and others who depend on fishing for sustenance?

Take Action: Check out Coosa Riverkeeper's Fish Guide program for more easily accessible information about fish consumption advisories, including a toll-free hotline Alabamians can call to hear advisories on rivers throughout the entire state.

About the Director

Natasha is a New York-based filmmaker currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Anthropology at New York University with a Certificate in Culture and Media. Her research interests are in the areas of migration, movement, and belonging. Natasha graduated from the University of Texas at Austin in 2008, where she majored in Biology and South Asian Studies. Her award-winning documentary, “Cast in India,” world premiered at the Margaret Mead Film Festival and is currently screening on the festival circuit. Natasha is also a 2015 Flaherty Film Seminar Fellow.

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