Articles and News             Cormorant Management and Control Policy Audubon Ohio and Columbus Audubon Joint Statement March 3, 2004 All Cormorant management and control decisions should be based upon sound, scientific principles. Management strategy should be designed to enhance and preserve a diversity of species in limited habitats.  Present evidence does not support the belief that Cormorants present a significant threat to fisheries in Ohio. Local, isolated Cormorant population problems exist and call for localized management plans. Specifically, the heron colonies on the Lake Erie Islands are negatively impacted by Cormorant nesting.  These colonies are unique in the Great Lakes and their continued presence enhances the enjoyment of birdwatching. Local Cormorant populations require study and research to determine the best control strategy. A large scale problem has not been demonstrated. Extensive research needs to be undertaken to evaluate the existence and scope of a problem and the need for control. All non-lethal alternatives should be explored and evaluated before using lethal methods for bird control. Lethal control methods are not long term solutions to bird control problems. Prior to initiating use of lethal control methods, a reevaluation must be made of the need and desirability of the method. Audubon supports the ODNR in its search for alternative and effective management methods. Creative control techniques should be tested and initiated. Research should be undertaken to characterize the existence and magnitude of the Cormorant population and its impact in Ohio and the Great Lakes. Research should be undertaken to identify effective, long-term control methods. Page updated 03/08/04 © Columbus Audubon 2004