Wendy
I do not disagree with your sentiments at all – in fact I strongly agree. However, how many other activities / issues are also affecting the health of our environment and its wildlife that also could be discussed on this “birding” forum. I can suggest:
Murray – Darling water policy Petroleum based transport affecting environment Farming methods & crop selections, e.g. irrigated rice-growing National Park and State forest burning practices Cattle grazing in natural environments Pest animals (buffalo, goats, cats, foxes, cane toads) Government policy on land clearing – especially Qld Government policy on support for environment protection / preservation / restoration Indigenous landcare practices – habitat burning Alternative energy initiatives – wind power, solar power and their impacts on natural environments Offshore oil exploration potential & real impacts Climate change!!! Nuclear energy to eliminate fossil fuel use!!! Etc., etc.
All of the above, and many more, are VERY important to the overall health of the environment in which birds live. But I really feel that this forum cannot be the appropriate place to open a fully ranging discussion of each of these issues.
I would suggest that a simple message directing interested people to an alternative website, email list, discussion forum, blog or whatever is as much as this forum should contain.
Most respectfully of your strong feelings Bob Cook
