Predator Control Comment Period Ended

March 7, 2008 -- Wed., March 5, was the last day for comments on the request for the cancellation of two valuable predator management tools to be submitted. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) received a petition from animal rights groups last year requesting the agency to cancel all uses of M-44 sodium cyanide capsules and sodium fluoroacetate, more commonly known as Compound 1080.

Federal legislators from the state of Wyoming weighted in this week by asking the EPA to continue the registration process for M-44s and Compound 1080. U.S. Senators Mike Enzi and John Barrasso and U.S. Representative Barbara Cubin stated that "these regulated chemicals are important tools for health, safety and business in our state. It is important that the EPA recognize the importance of their use and the minor nature of the risk these chemicals pose.

"Compound 1080 and M-44 capsules are valuable tools used by qualified wildlife managers. These chemicals are currently heavily regulated by your agency and the U.S. Department of Agriculture. We urge you to continue the registration process for these chemicals," concluded the legislators.

More than 800 comments were submitted on this important topic. The American Sheep Industry Association commends the Wyoming congressional delegation for supporting the sheep industry and wildlife management officials in continuing predator control tools.

<< Back