Target: Scott Morrison, Director of Conservation Prorams for The Nature Conservancy
Goal: Spare thousands of Catalina deer from mass culling plan.
A controversial plan to kill over 2,000 deer on California’s Catalina Island never came to fruition after reports revealed helicopter shooters would be used to cull the deer. Two years later, however, the plan (minus the helicopters) being billed as “conservation” by supporters and as “inhumane” by critics has been approved by the state’s wildlife officials. And once again, fierce debate has followed.
The island, which is privately owned by the Catalina Island Conservancy, is at dire risk from the continued presence of the nonnative mule deer, according to the organization’s representatives. They argue that the deer consume and thus endanger rare native plants. They also claim their “rescue plan” – of which culling is the focus – will benefit other animals and reduce the risk of wildfires. Critics, who include LA County’s supervisor and local residents, say the plan is too extreme and unfair to the deer who have made a home on the island. Even some fire officials contend that curbing the deer population could increase wildfires, as the vegetation they consume could be vulnerable to blazes.
Sign the petition below to urge a compromise that could save the deer and the habitat they call home.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Director Morrison,
“I came out in opposition to this plan after hearing from my constituents on the island who have come to cherish the deer. A compromise was possible, and I am deeply disappointed that our state officials did not take a more balanced, humane approach.” L.A. County Supervisor Janice Hahn echoed the grievances of many individuals who view the “rescue plan” for Catalina Island as a plan of needless execution instead.
Through no fault of their own, mule deer became a long-term fixture on the island. Their presence has benefits as well as perceived harms, including lessening the fire-prone vegetation they help keep in check. Please meet with critics and work together on a true conservation plan that considers the needs of all living beings on this storied island.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo Credit: Dcrjsr
