RUNCIMAN WANTS CORMORANT CULL EXTENDED
EASTWARD
TORONTO - Leeds-Grenville
MPP Bob Runciman has asked David Ramsay, Minister
of Natural Resources, to extend the ministry’s
cull of cormorants to Eastern Ontario.
Following a cormorant control strategy developed
by the previous government, the MNR initiated
a cull program in the Presqu’ile area
last year and the ministry is planning to follow
through with a second cull this year.
In a question to the minister Thursday, Runciman
noted that the cormorant population is doubling
every five years and recent scientific evidence
by the MNR and New York State show that cormorants
are having substantial negative impacts on the
Great Lakes Basin and St. Lawrence River Fisheries.
He said cormorants are now being spotted on
inland water systems including small lakes in
his riding such as Wolfe Lake and the Rideau
River Waterway.
“The cormorant problem is spreading and
already severe environmental damage is occurring
along the St. Lawrence River,” said Runciman.
“I believe it is time that the MNR acknowledge
the problem and extend the cull program eastward.”
Runciman says if action isn’t taken soon,
the damage caused to the environment and the
fishery will be irreparable.
Media Contact:
Bob Runciman
(416) 325-1522
