Fishermen must clean up their act

Now that the weather is warming up and summer vacation is right around the corner, those fishing poles are being put to use again. Along with fishing comes garbage being left behind. Fishing line, bobbers, hooks and sinkers are being left on the ground, hanging from trees, and in water waiting for its next victims.

Turtles, owls, hawks, waterfowl and mammals that visit ponds and lakes can be hurt or killed by this needless act. Owls can get tangled in line if it's left hanging from a tree.

Waterfowl hanging out in or around the pond can get fishing line wrapped around their feet so tight that it cuts into their skin, leaving them prone to infection and even losing a foot or leg. Infections from the foot can lead to death.

All of this can be prevented by simply picking up your garbage.

Amy Tavolino

Wheaton