One of the most lethal poisons ever used in the
West’s war on predators may be staging a comeback. President
Richard Nixon banned Compound 1080 in 1972 following its widespread
misuse and the death of untold numbers of birds, animals and even
humans. Now the Texas Department of Agriculture wants the EPA to
allow its use on an emergency basis to control rabies in 43
counties. Officials of the New Mexico Environment Department and
wildlife activists say if the EPA grants the request, other states
may follow Texas’ lead. For more information, call Pat Wolff at New
West Research 505/466-1661. To comment on the proposal by Sept. 23,
write the EPA , Office of Pesticide Programs, 401 M Street, SW,
Washington, DC 20460 or send a fax to
703/308-8369.
This article appeared in the print edition of the magazine with the headline Return of Compound 1080?.
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