Joan O’Brien

Amherst, NH

I was disheartened to learn of the proposal to hold a predator killing contest in Lamar Township. These events, which reward participants with prizes for killing wildlife such as coyotes, foxes, raccoons and opossums, are both cruel and counterproductive.

Killing contests promote the indiscriminate slaughter of animals, many of which play critical roles in our ecosystem. Coyotes and foxes help control rodent populations, while raccoons and opossums contribute to pest control and forest health. Disrupting these natural balances can lead to unintended ecological consequences, including increased disease and invasive species.

Moreover, these contests send a harmful message to our children–that wildlife is expendable and that killing for sport is acceptable. Instead, we should teach respect for all living creatures and work toward non-lethal, science-based solutions to address any wildlife concerns.

Lamar Township has the opportunity to set an example by rejecting this outdated and unnecessary practice. Let’s choose compassion and conservation over cruelty.