957.16 Blackbird population control programs. - Ohio Statutes

957.16 Blackbird population control programs.

(A) As used in this section “blackbird” means the red-winged blackbird (Agelaius phoeniceus), the common grackle (Quiscalus quiscula), the brown-headed cowbird (Molothrus ater), and the starling (Sturnus vulgaris).

(B) The director of agriculture may develop and conduct programs to control blackbirds which cause economic losses on Ohio farms, are detrimental to the public health and welfare, deface or defile public and private property, or create a public nuisance.

(C) Any such program shall be presented to the chief of the division of wildlife and the wildlife council created by sections 121.04 and 1531.03 of the Revised Code for approval.

(D) The director shall conduct such approved programs in areas in which the population of such blackbirds makes control practicable and feasible.

(E) The director may cooperate with and may accept contributions from any individual, corporation, or agency of the United States, this state, or any of its subdivisions whenever such cooperation or contributions will strengthen a program developed under the authority of division (B) of this section.

(F) The director or his representative, for the sole purpose of conducting an approved control program thereon, shall have the right of ingress and egress to any area in which a control program authorized by this section would, in his judgment, be effective and beneficial to the general public.

Effective Date: 03-18-1969