Star Tribune:
Brian Peterson
“Two Maplewood DFLers, Sen. Charles Wiger and Rep. Peter Fischer, introduced bills in January to ban the sale and use of lead fishing jigs and sinkers. Wiger said he’s feeling hopeful after Minnesota became the first state in the nation last year to prohibit most industrial uses of trichloroethylene (TCE), which can increase the risk of cancer and other serious health issues.
An overwhelming majority of lawmakers supported that ban after White Bear Township-based Water Gremlin agreed to pay $7 million in fines and fees after the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) determined the plant had released an excess amount of TCE into the air.
Wiger said his constituents are now pushing for more environmental justice measures. “My district is very concerned about the environmental impact of toxic chemicals,” said Wiger, whose neighboring district was impacted by nearby Water Gremlin. “We need to listen to the next generation.”
Others, including the nonprofit Friends of Minnesota Scientific and Natural Areas, are also aiming to ban lead in hunting ammunition. Board Chairman Tom Casey said people would be shocked to know the amount of lead left in wilderness areas that belong to the public. While legislators push for policy changes, the MPCA has launched a “Get The Lead Out” campaign that asks Minnesotans to voluntarily give up lead fishing tackle.”
Latest statistics from necropsy of Minnesota loons showed a lead poisoning rate of 14%, and based on these and other data, it is estimated that 100 to 200 loons die per year from lead fishing tackle in Minnesota. A needless loss.
