Audubon California calls for restricting use of lead shot in state wildlife areas Action would remedy a loophole in the law that creates a danger for birds and other wildlife Published on Feb 6, 2010 - 11:08:36 AM
EMERYVILLE, Calif. Feb. 5, 2010 - In an effort to remove a loophole in the law that creates a dangerous environment for birds and other wildlife, Audubon California has asked the California Fish and Game Commission to consider a ban on the use of lead shot in state wildlife areas.
Due to widespread consensus that the use of lead shot for waterfowl hunting poses a significant danger in wetland environments, federal law bans such use. However, the use of lead shot for upland game is currently allowed on most state wildlife areas, and often results in lead being introduced into wetland environments anyway. Research now shows that both wetland and upland birds will ingest spent lead shot, and that this creates the potential for devastating effects on these bird populations.
"Allowing this situation to continue is inconsistent with the state's mission to manage these wildlife areas to the highest standards," said Dan Taylor, director of public policy for Audubon California. "These areas are islands of habitat that serve as magnets to wildlife and human visitors with excellent wildlife viewing, fishing and hunting opportunities."
California is behind other states in recognizing and addressing this problem. Twenty-five states have lead shot prohibitions for hunting beyond those required by the federal government for waterfowl. Of the 40 states that allow dove hunting, 16 have some level of nontoxic shot requirements specific to dove hunting.
Assemblyman Pedro Nava, who recently helped pass a state law prohibiting the use of lead ammunition in areas inhabited by the California Condor because of the dangers that it posed for that endangered species, noted that it is vital that the state take these steps to protect the wildlife under its care.
"The science is increasingly clear that lead shot poses a real danger to bird populations on these lands," said Nava, who is currently drafting legislation along these lines. "With viable alternatives to lead shot – this is just a no-brainer."
In its communications with the Commission, Audubon California noted the crucial role hunters play in wildlife management and conservation, particularly in funding through licenses and excise taxes on sporting equipment sales. This policy change should appeal to hunters, given that inaction stands to erode both wetland and upland bird populations – and diminish hunting opportunities.
"We would expect hunters to embrace and quickly adapt to the new regulations, as they did with the ban on lead shot for waterfowl," said Taylor. "There is no reason to choose between conservation and recreation on these lands."
Website: www.ca.audubon.org.
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