You just never know.  You set your expectations so low sometimes, particularly when it comes to the actions of state governments… well, it’s nice to be surprised.  And surprised I was when I saw that Minnesota has taken a sensible approach to the “lead-in-venison” (from now on to be referred to as LIV on the Hog Blog) issue. 

As the 2008-2009 hunting regulations booklets are released, the State is publishing a warning to the state’s hunters about the potential effects of lead fragments, and providing safety recommendations including the use of non-lead or “lead safe” ammo and careful processing of harvested meat.  In this article from the Twin Cities Pioneer Press, the following statement is quoted from the back of the regulations booklet:

“Though no illnesses have been linked to lead particles in hunter-harvested venison, lead can have a negative effect on human bodies at levels below any noticeable signs of illness. It can be particularly harmful to children age 6 and under and pregnant women.”

I like the honesty in that statement, and while I still feel like this is an unnecessary level of alarm, at least they’re doing something besides mindlessly banning lead ammo (e.g. California). 

The MN venison donation program is still in question, according to the article, which is a sad but realistic response to the issue.  As long as there’s any risk or question, the State is unlikely to take responsibility for distributing venison to the needy families.  You can probably imagine the potential lawsuits, even if no link between LIV and lead toxicity is ever conclusively proven.

With deer hunting and other big game seasons lining up in the wings, it’s good for all hunters to equip ourselves with real knowledge and information, and to be aware of what’s going on…even if we’re not joining the panicked hordes.  Keep your eyes on this situation, and let’s see where it goes.

Related Posts