COLUMBUS — The first meeting of a work group tasked with considering how to regulate species deemed to be dangerous wild animals in Ohio was recently held in Columbus.
The meetings, led by Ohio Department of Natural Resources Assistant Director Scott Zody, are not open to the public, but a summary of each meeting will be posted on the ODNR website at ohiodnr.com.
“We have set an aggressive agenda and hope to complete our work by late fall,” said Zody. “Our goal is to provide a framework for legislative consideration that would include identifying what constitutes a dangerous wild animal, common sense regulations that ensure public safety, and an enforceable process that does not over burden state resources.”
Who’s at table. Members of the work group are from the following organizations:
• Association of Zoos and Aquariums (Columbus Zoo)
• Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), USDA
• Humane Society of the United States (Ohio Chapter)
• Knox County Prosecutor’s Office
• Ohio Association of Animal Owners
• Ohio Department of Natural Resources
• Ohio Veterinary Medical Association
The work group will develop a timeline that allows for public comment and public open houses. The next work group meeting is July 22.
Oh goody another chance for Ohio to be screwed by HSUS, wow can’t wait!