March 31, 2023 at 11:31 a.m.
Ten years later; lead still a concern
Ten years later; lead still a concern
This practice was embraced as policy in 2012 in order to reduce lead poisoning in fish and wildlife. Researchers reported that waterfowl and fish have lead accumulation in their bodies and bloodstreams.
As money came out of the BP gulf petroleum spill settlement, Chisago County kicked off its “Hook, Line and Sinker’ effort tapping into that fund. The collection effort and the exchange continue to this day only now it’s known as “Get the Lead Out”
Chisago County was selected in 2021 along with six other counties in Minnesota to continue to get outside financial aid.
County Water Resources staffer Monica Kinny says the county gathered 57 pounds of lead tackle in the last two years alone.
Citizens can trade leaded items for lead-free at the Government Center, or bring a leaded item should you come across a County Water Resources booth at a community celebration or the county fair.
A new piece of legislation working its way through the legislature has a good chance to become law. And, trumpeter and tundra swans in particular, will benefit. Funding earmarked at $1.4 million also could be available for efforts that reduce lead in the swans’ environment.
The bills HF 2368 and SF 2204 give the MN Commissioner of Natural Resources authority to designate swan (resting) protection areas and to prohibit possessing lead items in that area. The penalties for killing, buying or selling a swan could rise to a gross misdemeanor. Restitution also increases to $1,000 for a tundra swan and $2,500 for a trumpeter.
Kinney commented that it is “...encouraging people are talking about this (lead) especially at the state level.”
HF 2368 was heard and laid over for possible inclusion in an Omnibus bill later in the session. It has 14 State Representatives signed on as authors.
Comments:
Commenting has been disabled for this item.