For consideration into the…

For consideration into the policy change:

The historical decline ( i.e., due to exposure to DDT) and subsequent thriving (e.g., improved agricultural processes) of the DCC are largely influenced (if not driven) by human interaction, whether direct or indirect. With that fact in mind, controls need to be in place to enable the species to persist without detriment to other species whose populations can be affected by the increased numbers of DCC; aesthetics and property ownership aside.

In order to satisfy the management criteria and ecosystem objectives put fourth through our various governing agencies and previous public consultation, management of the population of DCC is required. The livelihoods of those relying on the sport and commercial fisheries are at stake. We know DCC eats an abundance of the invasive gobies where it can, however, in uninvaded lakes or areas where coarse rocky substrates impede goby predation, the DCC are known to resort to predating on other species which form the foundation of many industries and livelihoods, not to mention threaten our fisheries heritage as a province.

We have chosen to manage the resources in order to protect them. With this comes not only the satisfaction of stocking fish into the lake when populations decline, but also the responsibility to control proportions in order to keep a balance when mother nature sees the opportunity to fill a niche. We have made this decision in the spirit of maintaining the great diversity for which Ontario is known, it is times like these we must recognize our responsibility.

Regarding the spoilage of DCC, I am not in favour of any unnecessary waste or spoilage. However, I understand this has been put fourth to enable the control of a species whose density has become an issue. Should the lack of use of DCC for food or otherwise be present and ultimately prevent the control of the population, I would consider this to be a necessary waste in the spirit of maintaining Ontario's diversity and am in favour.