Minnesota: Let DNR Know You Oppose the Proposed Lead Ammunition Ban!

Last night, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) held a public meeting to discuss a proposed rule that would ban lead shot from being used on State Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) in the Farmland Zone.  The meeting was well attended; however, the discussion although cordial and respectful, did not sway an already determined DNR from imposing an extremely flawed rule into practice in Minnesota. 

If you were unable to attend last night’s meeting, it is vital that you make your voice heard.  You can email comments to steve.merchant@state.mn.us.  You may also submit written comments to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources by mailing a letter/statement to:

Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
Non-Toxic Shot Comments
500 Lafayette Road, Box 20
St. Paul, MN 55155-4020

Be sure to reference the March 10, 2016 non-toxic shot informational meeting!

It is of the utmost importance that you share your thoughts and concerns regarding this proposed lead shot ban.  Sportsmen and women across Minnesota will determine if this far reaching rule is set in place. 

As previously reported, the proposed regulatory mandate for WMAs in the farmland zone would impose a significant burden on many of the state’s 70,000 pheasant hunters who hunt in these areas, as well as sportsmen and women who hunt wild turkey, ruffed grouse, and other small game species on what amounts to approximately 600,000 acres of public hunting land.

As we have seen with attempts to ban the use of lead ammunition in other states, arguments in favor of these bans are based on faulty science.  It is important to fully understand the facts concerning traditional hunting ammunition so Minnesotans are not misled into adopting a ban that could negatively impact the rich hunting heritage of Minnesota.  There has been no sound scientific evidence stating that traditional ammunition is having a population-level impact on any species in Minnesota.  To ensure proper conservation of species, wildlife must be managed with a fact-based approach. 

Once again, please email comments to steve.merchant@state.mn.us or send a written statement to DNR with your strong opposition to this proposed rule!