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State Representative Rick Hansen
100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
651-296-6828
For more information contact: Matt Swenson 651-297-8406
Column/LTE
HUNTERS HELPING THE HUNGRY
The state's venison donation program implemented last year gave Minnesota hunters the opportunity to help in the fight against hunger statewide. But it also revealed some troubling information about the presence of lead in wild game. With changes, the venison donation program will continue this year.
Since the discovery of lead in venison last winter, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has conducted an in-depth study aimed at determining the source of lead contamination. DNR scientists and hunting experts are testing a variety of bullets, rifles and shotguns in a controlled experiment to determine which hunting practices leave the most lead contamination behind and which practices keep the animal clean.
I support this research effort to determine facts with which DNR managers and the Legislature can make sound decisions. The DNR and other state agencies should provide Minnesota hunters the research-based information they need to make healthy hunting choices for their families. In doing so, we can make hunting a safer and healthier activity for all Minnesotans while ensuring the safety of venison donation at the state's food shelves. Bow hunters are in the field now and can also participate in the donation program.
Other agencies are working with meat processors to ensure safety of the donated venison and have modified the types of venison cuts available at food shelves. Trainings for meat processors are going on throughout the state now.
This is important because demands on our food shelves this winter will be high. An increase in economic problems will lead to an increase in hunger. Hunters can help the hungry. We have an effective delivery system for reaching people who need the meat. We should continue our efforts with the health and safety precautions developed by the agencies.
Our venison donation program is a unique and effective device of game management and a means of essential nutrition for thousands of hungry Minnesotans. It is important to remember that aside from donating a deer carcass, anyone can also make a voluntary monetary donation of $1, $3, or $5 at a DNR license vendor this fall. The DNR will need to ensure that vendors are asking if you want to donate. The more dollars donated, the more deer can be processed for the hungry. I just bought my deer license, and donated $5 to the program. Our collective generosity helps make the venison donation program successful in Minnesota.
To ensure the success of the venison donation program this hunting season, I ask you to participate now.
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State Representative Rick Hansen is a member of the House Environment and Natural Resources Committee and chief author of legislation creating Minnesota's venison donation program.
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