As anticipated earlier this spring, the lead ammunition issue has arrived in Oregon. This week, the Oregon House Interim Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources met to discuss the ongoing Lead Ammunition Survey.
This survey, which your NRA previously reported on here, began this summer and consisted of a random sample of 4,200 hunters from each geographic region of Oregon. Survey results are SUPPOSED to be used for the dual purpose of informing discussions among agencies, groups and others about any potential restrictions in the use of lead ammunition and to gather information from the individuals who would be most impacted by any restrictions on lead ammunition -- hunters.
The Interim Committee hearing focused on a number of issues related to lead ammunition, and included testimony by individuals on both sides of the issue. The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife indicated that a voluntary program should be sufficient to meet USFWS requirements should condors appear in Oregon. However, anti-lead activists presented information that their desire is to mimic the California complete ban on the use of lead ammunition for hunting. California has had a misguided ban on traditional ammunition used for hunting in the condor range since 2007 and condor blood-lead poisoning and mortality have actually increased despite a 99% compliance.
Your NRA is keeping a close eye on this issue and the impact it may have on sportsmen in Oregon. For more information on the all-out assault on traditional ammunition throughout the United States, please visit www.huntfortruth.org.
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