Volunteer duck hunters are being sought to take part in research into potential chemical contamination of ducks.
SSAA Hunting Development Manager David Laird said this is a result of high PFAS levels found in ducks at Heart Morass near Sale, in eastern Victoria.
“A more widespread sample is needed to understand whether contamination is localised or is a more widespread issue for waterbirds around the state,” he said.
The Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research (ARI) is conducting the study and needs whole ducks shot at various locations around the state for testing.
“The SSAA advocates for a science-based approach to wildlife management issues and the data that will be gathered will be important in helping to understand the extent of the problem,” Mr Laird said.
Twenty-five areas have been chosen and ARI will coordinate the collection of birds from hunters.
Testing needs to be completed before the end of the recreational duck season so expressions of interest need to be submitted by May 8.
If you are a duck hunter and want to be involved in this important research, contact David on 03 8892 2777 or hunting.manager@ssaavic.com.au to express interest and for more details.
