Anglers Fighting Push To Ban Lead Lures
Michigan anglers and bait shop owners are warning that a push to ban lead in fishing tackle would harm the state's $7 billion fishing industry at a time when it's already hard-hit by the recession.
The Detroit News reports that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is considering banning the toxic metal's use in tackle because waterfowl can die if they eat lead sinkers and other fishing gear anglers use.
If the EPA implements the ban sought by environmental groups tackle makers would have to switch to costly alternatives that would cause tackle prices to soar.
The EPA's decision is expected in early November.
One Detroit-area fisherman says a lead ban would cripple the state's fishing industry.
(Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
