Tell the DNR it's time to reduce the pelican and cormorant population in Meeker County to a sustainable level set by the Federal Wildlife Service.
Why is this important?
I've seen the devastating effects these birds have on our local lakes. During this time the DNR has stood by while local people have asked for their help before the lakes are severely hurt. The DNR has stated that these birds have yet to have an ill effect on our area, but those of us who fish and live in this area are seeing things differently. Our little lakes are being burdened at a rate that's 27 times higher than sustainable levels set by the U.S Fish and Wildlife Services for other lakes in Minnesota. The cormorant and pelican population are responsible for consuming 1.9 million pounds of fish from Meeker County lakes yearly. In 2005 the DNR stepped in on Leech Lake; the program has had great success. Leech Lake wasn't nearly as over populated as our area. I believe our area lakes are just as important as any other. It's time for the DNR to be proactive. Why do we have to let our lakes be seriously hurt before they act? Is it really necessary to allow game fish levels to drop to a point that's costly and takes years to fix before the DNR takes action?
