LEAD TACKLE AND SHOT

Abstract:

Lead poisoning in many different species of waterfowl is a major problem in the Northeast United and Eastern Canada.  Lead sinkers, jigs, and shot have been ingested by waterfowl because they bear a resemblance to grain and grit required for ingestion.  The ingestion of a single sinker, jig, or shot pellet can be lethal.  Research shows that lead poisoning is the leading cause of death for the Common Loon in the Northeast U.S.  Also, a large amount of lead is being deposited into the environment every year and could pose a threat to humans, not just waterfowl.  There have been regulatory actions taken in several states of the Northeast U.S. that ban the use of lead sinkers and jigs.  Vermont is currently proposing legislation that would put a similar ban into effect.  Currently, there are a wide variety of non-toxic alternatives for both fishing and hunting.  It seems inevitable that lead fishing tackle will be banned at some point.  We've taken the lead out of gasoline and paint.  We've made it illegal to use lead shot for waterfowl hunting.  It makes sense for anglers to phase it out of their tackle boxes, too.  The bottom line is that we know we are losing some loons to lead poisoning, so if the chance to reduce mortality is available then there should be no other option.  I think that sportsman are conservationists at heart and if they knew the full extent of this problem they would most likely pay the increased expense to save these endangered bird species.  Let's launch a vigorous campaign on this issue and begin working with anglers, hunters and manufacturers to make the transition smooth and fair.  And let's get it done sooner than later.