Wildlife workshop at zoo aims to get the lead out
November 1, 2015 - 12:54pm
Oregon Zoo Foundation, conservation and species recovery, community, education, events
Experts will discuss lead's impact on local fauna, efforts to reduce exposure
Lead poisoning has been called one of the most preventable environmental health problems; since the 1980s, lead has been eliminated from paint, gasoline and plumbing. The toxic metal remains a threat to wildlife however, and next month, sportsmen, scientists and wildlife professionals will convene at the Oregon Zoo to talk about how to get the lead out of Northwest animals.
"Hunting with Non-lead Ammunition," a daylong workshop presented by the Oregon chapter of The Wildlife Society, takes place Nov. 20 at the Oregon Zoo banquet center. The workshop aims to provide an interactive forum where Northwest hunters and wildlife professionals can learn about and discuss the effects of lead on the area's wild animals and birds. Experts and specialists from across the region will review what is currently known on the topic and also cover ballistics and effectiveness of non-lead ammunition..
"I'm proud of the valuable contributions hunters make to conservation," said Leland Brown, the zoo's lead ammunition outreach coordinator and a lifelong outdoorsman. "Reducing wildlife's exposure to lead is a great way sportsmen and -women can carry on the legacy passed down to us from our parents and grandparents."
Registration for the "Hunting with Non-lead Ammunition" workshop is $25, which includes lunch and refreshments. Find a detailed schedule and information on how to register here.
The Wildlife Society is a nonprofit scientific and educational association dedicated to excellence in wildlife stewardship through science and education. The zoo's lead outreach position was made possible by a grant from the Oregon Zoo Foundation with additional support from the U.S. Department of Fish and Wildlife.
Support from the Oregon Zoo Foundation enhances and expands the zoo's efforts in conservation, education and animal welfare. Members, donors and corporate and foundation partners help the zoo make a difference across the region and around the world.