Submitted by: Heather O’WatchHeather O’Watch forges a global path as a Saskatchewan Indigenous advocateIn parts of Saskatchewan, many fish accumulate mercury, which is toxic to humans. Gold mining, pulp and paper mill operation, and clear cutting can all increase mercury levels in water. Fish accumulate mercury both through absorption and by eating mercury-contaminated prey. The big fish eat the little fish and over time, that concentrates mercury in the predators’ bodies. Indigenous communities are also disproportionately affected by mercury poisoning.