Stephanie Rinehart-Joseph

I am writing in support of HB 1018 to ban rodenticides in New Hampshire. Second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides (SGARs) are killing our wildlife through secondary poisoning. When rodents consume these poisons and are then eaten by predators like hawks, owls, eagles, bobcats, fishers, and foxes, the toxins accumulate in their systems with devastating effects. Studies show that 68% of red-tailed hawks have anticoagulant rodenticide toxins in their systems. This poisoning is widespread among raptors across our region. These poisons also harm non-target animals. Research in the Northeast has documented high exposure rates in fishers and other mammals that help control rodent populations naturally. We're poisoning the very animals that would otherwise keep rodent numbers in check. The evidence is clear that these poisons don't work as intended. They create a cycle where predators that naturally control rodents are killed, leading to increased rodent problems that people then try to solve with more poison. Safe alternatives exist. Integrated Pest Management techniques, including prevention strategies like sealing entry points and eliminating food sources, are proven to be more effective than poisons. They protect wildlife, children, and pets while actually solving the rodent problem. Please vote in favor of HB 1018 to protect New Hampshire's wildlife and promote effective, humane pest control methods.