Audubon Reminds Oneonta Hunters of New Ammunition Rules, Promotes Statewide Bullet Rebate Program 

ONEONTA—The local chapter of the Audubon Society is reminding Oneonta hunters of new rules regarding use of non-toxic ammunition. The group is also encouraging hunters county-wide to take advantage of a state rebate program to reimburse them for purchase of the safer bullets.

In July, the Oneonta Common Council approved an ordinance requiring use of non-toxic ammunition for firearms in the city and on city-owned lands outside the city. According to a press release, this primarily affects lands in the area of Oneonta’s water supply reservoir, Wilber Lake.

Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society Co-president Andrew Mason said non-toxic ammunition avoids risks to both human and wildlife health.

“Conventional lead ammunition fragments and spreads throughout the targeted animal when shot” he said. “Lead can be found as far as 14 inches from the bullet entry. This toxic material poses a serious threat to those who consume the venison, particularly children who can suffer brain and nervous system damage, slowed growth and development, and learning and behavior problems according to the Centers for Disease Control.”