A $10,000 reward is being offered for valid information and leads that can help bring an end to this ongoing investigation.
The Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) and the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) are continuing to investigate and educate the public in the illegal use of the pesticide, carbofuran, also known as furadan. It has been linked in the most recent poisoning deaths of at least seven bald eagles and a great horned owl on the Eastern Shore. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) has joined in this investigation.
Courtesy of Wild Life South
The MDA and DNR recently made a joint statement.
"We are all very troubled by the continued use of this highly toxic banned pesticide," Joe Bartenfelder, the secretary of the MDA stated. “I urge anyone still in possession of carbofuran to contact our pesticide regulation section immediately and arrange for proper disposal.”
“We are extremely concerned about the death of these magnificent birds, including our nation’s symbol," said Jeannie Haddaway-Riccio, the DNR’s secretary. "We are making it a priority to inform and educate the public on how destructive carbofuran is to our wildlife and that they should do the right thing and properly dispose of any remaining stock.”
The agencies are urging anyone who has this lethal pesticide to dispose of it responsibly and correctly.
These poisonings have been an ongoing problem. In February 2016; under similar circumstances, 13 bald eagles were poisoned. An active questioning of locals, landowners, and hunters for information has led to no avail.
The USFWS is offering a reward of up to $10,000 for information that furthers the investigation. For more information visit Maryland's Department of Natural Resources.
Jay Pilgrim, resident agent in charge of USFWS, said, “It is hard to believe that not one person has information of persons placing a toxic poison that has killed no fewer than 20 eagles in these areas. The only way this stops is if the local communities come forward with information.” Pilgrim oversees USFWS in Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, and Delaware.
Prior to the press release, the MDA issued a Pesticide Enforcement Advisory “reminding all farmers, applicators, and retailers that the use and sale of carbofuran is ILLEGAL under state and federal law.” it continues, “Violations of Maryland’s Pesticide Applicator Law are subject to a fine of up to $25,000 and/or prison. Violators may also be subject to further penalties from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).”
In 2009, the pesticide was federally banned after the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) deemed it was intolerable for all uses. However, while it is technically legal to possess carbofuran, it is illegal to be used, sold, or traded.
What You Can Do:
- Don’t be afraid! If you own the pesticide carbofuran, also known as furadan, it is only illegal to use, sell, and trade it. The GOAL is to dispose of this lethal pesticide responsibly. Anyone in possession of this lethal pesticide is encouraged to dispose of it responsibly and correctly. DO NOT wash it down a drain, a well, etc. This will just make matters worse. Please just take the time to get directions on the proper disposal of pesticides. You can call (410) 841-5710, email [email protected], or learn more at the Maryland Department of Agriculture.
- If you have any information that can help in this investigation of these deaths or other wildlife, you can anonymously report information to the Maryland Wildlife Crime Stoppers at (443) 433-4112 or email [email protected]. This hotline is an anonymous way to report illegal hunting, fishing, and the killing of wildlife.
- Spread the word! Considerately speak with your neighbors and town members about the importance of preserving our precious wildlife and alternative methods other than toxic pesticides. Accusations and attacks never work; please be empathetic as this last poisoning was most likely not an intentional attack against our bald eagles and other wildlife
History:
The bald eagle became the United States national symbol, inducted by the Continental of Congress, on June 20, 1782.
Bald Eagle Protection Act: In 1940, Congress passed the Bald Eagle Protection Act, making it illegal to possess, kill, or sell the bald eagles. Later in 1962, the Act was amended to include the Golden Eagle, now known as The Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act.
Endangered Species List: In 1978, the bald eagle was put on the endangered species list. In 1995, their status changed from endangered to threatened. In 2007, the bald eagle was removed completely from the list.
Golden Eagle (L) and Bald Eagle (R) in their Preferred Habitats
(Courtesy of The Avian Report)
Did You Know?
One of the major reasons the bald eagle was placed on the endangered species list in 1978 was due to a pesticide called DDT (dichloro-diphenyl-trichloroethane), which was developed in the 1940s. It was used to treat insect-human diseases in both civilians and the military and insect control in crops, livestock, and more. Due to the extreme adverse effects on both humans and wildlife, the EPA banned the use of DDT in 1972. Ironically, our beloved nation's bird was endangered then partially due to a pesticide. Who knows if and when it could be again.
I have reached out to the Public Affairs Officer of the Maryland Department of Agriculture for an update regarding this investigation. Check back for any updates.
