I am opposed to the proposed…

I am opposed to the proposed cormorant hunt as it is presented on the basis that it is not based on scientific evidence for specific colonies and does not include proper monitoring of the effect the hunt would have on the population of cormorants. This species has recovered from low levels in the past - it is vulnerable to this again under this proposal. If, in certain locations the cormorant population has exceeded the carrying capacity of the place, or is causing a nuisance effect then a controlled hunt based on the evidence should be conducted, not this widespread shooting gallery type of response that is proposed.

I am very concerned about the collateral damage to other species. With government cutbacks the manpower needed to monitor this hunt proposed to take place all over Ontario will certainly not be up to what is needed. I support the science and evidence that is currently available about the cormorants and strongly suggest that the experts on cormorants be consulted and that they play a major role in the adjustments or cancelling of the proposal.

The sensible approach is to investigate the populations to see how they are affecting the local ecosystems and to take action based on the evidence that is gleaned. Some of the populations may need no control, while in other cases there might be a need for a controlled hunt, monitored by OMNR.

Thank you.