Chat
06-30-2019, 05:38 PM
Here is what I submitted to the Okanogan-Wenatchee NF. Deadline is tomorrow so please get your comments in immediately!
I wish to comment on scope of the proposed Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest Plan revision.
This proposal should NOT include management of packgoats and it should NOT lump domestic sheep and domestic goats under the same analysis. These are difference species and the one-size- fits-all approach on the science and on management is NOT justified.
It is stated in the Sheep Project: Story Map, "Extensive scientific research supports a relationship between disease in bighorn sheep populations and contact with domestic sheep or goats when these species are in close proximity."
Under Lead Agencies in the federal register document it states: "The USDA ARS has special expertise in animal diseases that would inform the Forest's management decisions. The ARS would help provide the best available scientific information on the transmission of pathogens between domestic sheep and/or goats and bighorn sheep, the risk that transmission would result in disease in bighorn sheep and their herds, and potential strategies to address transmission."
USDA ARDU completed a study of packgoat diseases by obtaining samples from 576 packgoats from 83 premises. Samples were tested by both USDA ARDU and the Washington Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory (WADDL). Results from both laboratories provided sufficient and valid evidence as to the very low prevalence of disease in packgoats.
I want to reiterate - this proposal should NOT include management of packgoats.
I wish to comment on scope of the proposed Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest Plan revision.
This proposal should NOT include management of packgoats and it should NOT lump domestic sheep and domestic goats under the same analysis. These are difference species and the one-size- fits-all approach on the science and on management is NOT justified.
It is stated in the Sheep Project: Story Map, "Extensive scientific research supports a relationship between disease in bighorn sheep populations and contact with domestic sheep or goats when these species are in close proximity."
Under Lead Agencies in the federal register document it states: "The USDA ARS has special expertise in animal diseases that would inform the Forest's management decisions. The ARS would help provide the best available scientific information on the transmission of pathogens between domestic sheep and/or goats and bighorn sheep, the risk that transmission would result in disease in bighorn sheep and their herds, and potential strategies to address transmission."
USDA ARDU completed a study of packgoat diseases by obtaining samples from 576 packgoats from 83 premises. Samples were tested by both USDA ARDU and the Washington Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory (WADDL). Results from both laboratories provided sufficient and valid evidence as to the very low prevalence of disease in packgoats.
I want to reiterate - this proposal should NOT include management of packgoats.
Goatberries Happen!