Growing up surrounded by the beauty of nature in West Newbury, MA, I have always cherished the wildlife that calls this area home. As a lifelong animal lover, it deeply saddens me to witness the harm that Second-Generation Anticoagulant Rodenticides (SGARs) are causing to our beloved community members—our owls, hawks, eagles, foxes, coyotes, cats, and dogs.

These poisons, intended to control rodent populations, are wreaking havoc on the ecosystem here in West Newbury. While effective in their primary purpose, they have unintended and devastating consequences on non-target wildlife and even pets. SGARs remain in the bodies of poisoned rodents, which are then preyed upon by other animals, leading to secondary poisoning. This bioaccumulation affects the health, reproduction, and survival of predatory species, threatening their populations across our region.

Facts and statistics back up my growing concern. According to studies conducted by wildlife organizations, secondary poisoning from SGARs is responsible for a significant number of deaths among birds of prey annually. For instance, in Massachusetts alone, incidents of SGAR poisoning are being reported at alarming rates, affecting not only wildlife but also domestic animals. It's heartbreaking yet preventable.

Help us safeguard our community's wildlife and domestic animals from unnecessary harm. By signing this petition, you are supporting a healthier, more sustainable future for West Newbury. Please join me in urging the town leaders to take immediate action to ban the use of SGARs in our community. Every signature counts!