We spoke, we wrote, we made a difference. According to the NY Times, the Department of Environmental Conservation will now “revisit” the issue of mass swan elimination. Cue big sigh of relief.
Phew!!!
Of course, mute swans can’t talk, let alone sing but if they did I’m sure they’d be chirping that irresistible Pharrell Williams song right about now. Cuz, I’m happy da da da I’m haaaapppppy...oops, sorry. Went down Glee Street for a minute. Where was I?
Right. The plan. Well, it’s probably not over yet–there’s gonna be another review process with more chance for public input– but this is a good first step. And so today I think I’ll let the elegant waterfowl have the (almost) last word. Go ahead, big girl:
“Nevermore!!!!!!!!!!!!”
Hmmm.
Wasn’t that a quote from…oh, well, nevahmind….
My letter to the editor published in the Times:
http://www.nytimes.com/2014/02/21/opinion/beauty-and-the-mute-swan.html
Copyright 2014, Lori Fontanes
What the Ducks! 
Very proud of you…………… but keep an eye on them, they like to get their own way.
Well done!
Many people helped but I am very happy to do what I can! Thanks!!! 🙂
Well Done For YOU!
Ironically, this is the first year that the Mississippi River right outside of St. Louis had a mass influx of migrating Trumpeter Swans. The reintroduction program, and the bottom-land restoration project are finally *working.* The conservation area at the confluence of the Mississippi and Missouri hasn’t experienced flocking on this scale in 3 or more decades. I was *shocked* to learn that swan extermination programs are in the works in other states. Absolutely shocked!
Thanks! From what I’ve read, apparently thousands of folks sent letters or signed petitions. And a quick search turned up a bunch of stories on it in all kinds of media. So the DEC got lots of feedback and they *did* listen so I’m relieved *and* grateful. 🙂
Hi Lori! I’ve given you the Dragon Award. I always love seeing your little feather gravatar and really enjoy your blog! It’s okay if you don’t do awards–just wanted to let you know you’re appreciated.
Oh you are so very kind to think of me for this!!!! I am truly terrible at dealing with awards. Keep thinking I will get to organizing something but just know that I am thankful for the tribute nonetheless. (Hilariously, I just “watched” that dragon hobbit movie across the aisle on a long flight. I’m going to assume the dragons in the case of this award are more Anne McCaffrey, less Tolkienesque? 😉
I’m not a big dragon person so I have no idea. I’m always torn by awards because some people like them and some don’t. On this one I just figured it was a way to showcase some of my favorite people. 🙂 Usually I am really pressed for time working outside, etc but it was a nice quiet day so….
Hope you enjoyed your day off! (Farmers don’t get many of those!!!) 😀
good job!!!! Yipee…speaking up does change things:-)
Thx–definitely a team effort. And we’re keeping fingers crossed!