Fishermen please make these simple changes!
FIRST, please don't release extra earthworms
First, when you're done fishing, please don't release extra earthworms you've used as bait into the natural areas where you fish.
As incredible as it sounds, earthworms - which aren't native to the Northeast - are altering the composition of the forest soil and threatening the health of our forests.
Here's an interesting graphic from the University of Minnesota contrasting the forest floor before and after earthworms.
SECOND, please use non-lead sinkers
Here's a way fishermen can play a special role in protecting loons and other birds. These birds ingest pebbles, and also mistakenly ingest lead sinkers, and are dying from lead poisoning!
Lead sinkers are illegal in New York State and in some states (such as Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Maine). But if you fish elsewhere - even if they're still legal - simply choose to use fishing tackle that is made of something other than lead or zinc (which is equally toxic)!
This is an easy way to protect these birds for future generations to enjoy!
t was a thrill to see and hear these two adult loons and their baby outside our campsite in the Adirondacks. It was also a powerful reminder of how important our daily choices are! Choosing lead sinkers could cause these loons to die a horrible death; choosing an alternative can preserve these birds for the pleasure of future generations.
Some background
The Adirondack Cooperative Loon Program has an excellent article on Lead and Loons
Here's some additional information:
A Tufts University study has found that New England loons and other birds are dying from lead poisoning. Loons ingest pebbles, and perhaps mistakenly, lead sinkers to aid in digestion. In the loon's acidic gizzard, the lead breaks down quickly, is absorbed into the blood, and can cause death within two weeks. A single dose of 0.3 grams of lead has proven fatal to loons. Lead sinkers and jigs generally weigh between .5 and 15 grams. ~ From Tufts E-News
Last updated 10/29/2009
