The Solution
JUDSON LAKE MUST BE CLEANED UP AND RESTORED
Judson Lake is an important ecosystem, strategically located along the Pacific Flyway, playing host to more than sixty bird species including the Peregrine Falcon, Bald Eagle and several hawk and waterfowl species. Sadly, this wetland is in a severely degraded state as progressively receding water levels have facilitated the decimation of once abundant fish populations, the spread of non-native noxious weeds (Purple Loosestrife) and the suffering lead poisoning deaths of far too many majestic Trumpeter Swans.
Fortunately, however, the dry lake floor during the summer months provides the perfect opportunity to remove the toxic lead shot that has accumulated over decades (while there are no nesting or migrating birds around to be disturbed).
The Canadian and U.S. authorities are well aware that several companies and organizations have offered to help in cleaning up and restoring the ecological integrity of Judson Lake. For example, in 2004, the CWS/WDFW received an offer from Philip Services (PSC), a hazardous waste disposal company, to donate its time and any profits from a clean up operation to the restoration of Judson Lake. PSC operates within a North American organization that includes a disposal and treatment facility in Washington State. PSC is committed to keeping our environment clean, and in doing so saving the swans of Judson Lake.
Moreover, since 2003, Ducks Unlimited Canada, "CANADA'S CONSERVATION COMPANY", has been willing to draw a restoration design for Judson Lake based on the following conditions:
a) Partners agree that Judson Lake is an important site to take action on.
b) Partners on the project agree on the concept of what should be done.
c) Partners/landowners would like to have DUC involved (partners include governments, non-government agencies and landowners).
Unfortunately, US and Canadian wildlife officials turned down the PSC offer and continue to look at farm fields in the area as "a" or "the" potential primary source despite their own data pointing conclusively to Judson Lake.
|