Sierra Club opposes study of pelican predation

Update: This bill failed to pass through the second funnel and will not be moving forward this legislative session.

The Sierra Club opposes bill SF2326, which requires that the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) conduct a study of pelican predation on fish.

The DNR would be required to study pelicans preying on fish and other aquatic life in Iowa’s inland waterways, the Mississippi river, and on private farm ponds.  As part of the study, the DNR would consult with US Army Corps of Engineers, the US Fish and Wildlife Service, plus local, state, and federal elected representatives.  The legislation requires three members of the public to be assigned to assist and guide the study.  The study’s findings and recommendations to be sent to the legislature by December 1, 2025.  The estimated cost of the study is $125,000.

Iowa’s Wildlife Action Plan lists the pelican as a species of greatest conservation need in Iowa.  That means that the pelican is not endangered or threatened in Iowa, however vigilance is needed to ensure that the pelican is able to remain in Iowa and is able to sustain and grow its population.  There is one breeding colony in Iowa, along the Mississippi River in Clinton County.

The legislation makes no mention about other causes of fish loss, such as high nutrient levels in rivers and streams, soil in water which affects water clarity, and fish kills due to manure spills and other pollution.

What you can do:

Ask your Senator to oppose SF2326, a study of pelicans preying on fish.