05-02-2012, 10:27 PM
I think most of the members of this forum would consider themselves environmentalists. However, the term has taken on a negative light due to environmental extremists. Extremism, be it religious, political, or environmental only makes it hard for those in the center to have a rational discussion.
I am a scientist, retired from the corporate world, and now consulting for renewable (green) fuels and chemicals. So my profession is dedicated to ending petroleum use and improving the environment.
And while I agree that this is not junk science, I would say that it appears to be a result of people with an answer out looking for the question. It appears that there is a desire to link lead to the endangerment of these birds. Although I have not read the body of literature cited by the one referenced by CBronson ( I will), I did not see any reference to what is a toxic level for these birds. And although the samples showed wide variation in levels, with 4 out of 150 seeming to be really high, we must remember that these feathers were taken from living, healthy birds. Not dead birds from obvious lead poisoning, or sickly birds in a condor rescue. So I do think this paper is trying hard to make a case that the authors have already decided.
I am in favor of non toxic anything, including ammunition. But I am not in favor of more government regulation, especially in the area of the 2nd Amendment.
I am a scientist, retired from the corporate world, and now consulting for renewable (green) fuels and chemicals. So my profession is dedicated to ending petroleum use and improving the environment.
And while I agree that this is not junk science, I would say that it appears to be a result of people with an answer out looking for the question. It appears that there is a desire to link lead to the endangerment of these birds. Although I have not read the body of literature cited by the one referenced by CBronson ( I will), I did not see any reference to what is a toxic level for these birds. And although the samples showed wide variation in levels, with 4 out of 150 seeming to be really high, we must remember that these feathers were taken from living, healthy birds. Not dead birds from obvious lead poisoning, or sickly birds in a condor rescue. So I do think this paper is trying hard to make a case that the authors have already decided.
I am in favor of non toxic anything, including ammunition. But I am not in favor of more government regulation, especially in the area of the 2nd Amendment.