Bonneville Fish Game

Why are some fish near Bonneville Dam too toxic to eat? How did this pollution happen, and what can be done about it?

Through three short videos and interactive quizzes, you’ll explore the history of the Bradford Island Superfund Site, learn how toxic pollutants move through the food chain and affect human health, and understand the difference between resident and migratory fish. By the end, you’ll know how contamination impacts communities, why cleanup matters, and how you can help protect the Columbia River for future generations.

Watch the videos and take corresponding quizzes today to test your knowledge! 

1) What is a Superfund Site and how did Bradford Island get polluted?

Quiz 1:

2.) Bonneville Dam Contamination & Health Impacts

Explore pollution at Bonneville Dam and Bradford Island, the contaminants present (PCBs, heavy metals, pesticides), how they persist and biomagnify, impacts on fish, and risks to human health. Test your knowledge of advisories, affected systems, and community collaboration for safer practices.

Quiz 2:

3.) Bonneville Dam Fish Advisory and Cleanup Awareness 

Explore where Bonneville Dam is, why Bradford Island contamination matters, and how PCBs affect resident vs. migratory fish. Learn which species are safest to eat, the boundaries of the DO NOT EAT advisory, special guidance for lamprey, and ways communities can advocate for faster cleanup while respecting cultural fishing traditions.

Quiz 3:

Resources

• ¡Alerta Sobre el Consumo de Pescado!
• Fish Advisory
• Oregon Health Authority Bonneville Dam Fish Advisory
• Limpieza de la presa Bonneville Superfund a nuevamente seguro better version de Sitio tóxico a un lugar seguro En Espanol

Why is Bonneville Dam Cleanup Important?

For decades, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) dumped toxic waste near Bonneville Dam, leaching poisonous contaminants into the Columbia River, and causing resident fish to have the highest levels of cancer-causing polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in the country. This harmful contamination continues to threaten the health of those who depend on the Columbia River—also known as N’Chi Wana, or “Big River”—for their food and livelihood. After 30 years of injustice, we stand with Tribes to demand that the Corps clean up its mess now.