Under the Freedom of Infortmation Law (FOIL), SRAC has obtained the NY State Dept. of Environmental Conservation's file on the Federally-protected Peregrine Falcon that was brought to the CACC's Manhattan shelter on February 11, 1998 and died the following day.
Ward Stone's pathology report and Volunteers for Wildlife's phone records both contradict the CACC's claims that the bird was immediately and properly hydrated and attended at CACC. CACC claims Ward Stone was unqualified to assess the falcon's post-mortem condition. Stone's lengthy credentials are attached. So why weren't charges ever brought against CACC? Apparently DEC cut a deal to let CACC off the hook despite its incompetence, carelessness and deceit. We'd like to know why.
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
Division of Fish, Wildlife and Marine Resources
Wildlife Pathology Unit
108 Game Farm Road, Delmar, NY 12054
John P. Cahill
Commissioner
CONFIDENTIAL
M E M O R A N D U M
TO: ECO John Fitzpatrick
FROM: Ward Stone, Wildlife Pathologist
SUBJECT: Peregrine Falcon #98-07-29
DATE: April 17, 1998
The following is a summary of history and findings for this case.
History: This peregrine falcon, taken by ECO John Fitzpatrick, was alive, but was in what appeared to be a dire need of medical attention, from a cage in Room B, 2nd floor of the CACC, 326 East 110 Street Manhattan on February 12, 1998. ECO Fitzpatrick then (on February 12, 1997) delivered the peregrine to Dr. Sarah Cutler, V.M.D. of the A.M.C on February 12, 1998. The moribund bird reportedly died in less than an hour after arrival at the A.M.C. Dr. Cutler turned the bird over to DEC Biologist Marcelo DelPuerto on February 13,1998 and Mr. Del Puerto transferred the bird to ECO M.C. Terrell on February 13, 1998. On the same day, ECO M.C. Terrell transferred the peregrine to Wildlife Pathology Unit Technician John Byrne, and on February 13, 1998, John Byrne transferred the peregrine to me. The transferring of the bird was all done with chain-of-custody, and was assigned Case #98-07-29. This bird was reportedly banded as a nestling on June 4,1996 at Riverside Church on 122nd Street and Riverside Drive, Manhattan,New York.
Findings: An adult, after hatch-year, male peregrine, weighing 647 grams. The bird had a black left leg band 3333 and a red band 7777. The right leg had a federal band 220605274. The plumage was in good shape. The skeletal muscle was not atrophic, but appeared dry. Traces of subcutaneous and thoraco-abdominal cavity fat were present. The traces of fat remaining were yellowish-orange and appeared to be remnants of fat deposits that were being utilized. A hematoma was present at the base of the skull and on the right side of the neck. The hematoma did not show signs of resorption of the blood. No fractures or dislocations were associated with the hematoma. No fractures were present anywhere in the carcass.
Other than a small amount of thick mucous in the intestine, there was no material in the alimentary canal. No food material was present in alimentary canal for toxicological analyses. The alimentary canal appeared dry, and there was no evidence that the bird had received fluid or food orally the day of his death (or even longer). No feces, other than traces of white material (uric
The brain, liver, kidney, scrapings of the intestinal lining, the gizzard lining, and plumage from the legs were taken for toxicological studies. The brain was split in half so that both a cholinesterase level and organochlorine screen could be run.
Toxicology (See attached reports from the Illinois Department of Agriculture, Animal Disease Laboratory, and En Chem, Inc.): The brain cholinesterase is nearly totally inhibited indicating severe exposure to a cholinesterase inhibitor pesticide (organophosphate or carbamate). However, none were found in the very limited alimentary canal material (gizzard lining and scrapings of the intestines). No Avitrol was detected in this material. The liver had a low level of lead (0.44 ppm), and no pentobarbital sodium was detected in the liver. The screen of the brain for organochlorine compounds showed a variety of toxics such as Dieldrin, DDE, chlordane metabolites, and PCB's to be present, but far from lethal levels.
Diagnosis: Primary cause of death of the peregrine was poisoning with a cholinesterase inhibitor pesticide.
Comments: This peregrine should have gone to a place where it could have been properly evaluated and treated. The bird needed immediate treatment to counter the impact of the toxicant. This may have included removal of pesticide-contaminated food (probably portions of a poisoned pigeon or other bird), flushing the alimentary canal with fluids, adding material to the alimentary canal to adsorb the toxicant, treatment with atropine, and perhaps Diazepam, maintaining the fluid balance of bird, giving the bird a nutritious diet and maintaining a normal range body temperature.
Places such as the Bronx Zoo have the ability to carry out such emergency care, although it is not their job or responsibility to provide it. It is unlikely that a shelter, that deals primarily with dogs and cats, is going to have the training and skills to handle poisoned birds. However, they could be expected to keep it warm, and get it rapidly to a veterinarian or skilled wildlife rehabilitator who works with a veterinarian where proper care can be given. If the peregrine had received proper care, it would have had a chance of survival.
The diagnosis of the poisoning and rapid administration of an antidote was critical.
I suggest that we (DEC) hold a meeting on how to handle wildlife emergencies, such as this, with the City, Bronx Zoo, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Endangered Species Unit, interested veterinarians, wildlife rehabilitators, and local environmental groups, to set up a way for cases to receive swift and competent treatment.
/s/ Ward B. Stone
Wildlife Pathologist
WBS:rd
cc: G. Sheffer, J. Pane
[summary of form - bold type indicates hand-written]
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
Division of Law Enforcement
EVIDENCE AND CHAIN-OF-CUSTODY RECORD
1. Case name: Peregrine falcon
2. Case/ECAT Number:
3. Address:
4. City/State/Zip Code:
5. County: New York
6. Member: Fitzpatrick, John C.
7. Time Taken: 1615
8. Date Taken: 2/12/98
9. Office/Region: Region 2
10. Shield Number: 353
11. Description of Evidence Seized: (1) live peregrine falcon - Band: Red 777 - Black 333
12. Specific Location: In cage, in Room "B" (exotics), 2nd floor of CACC, E. 110th St, Manhattan
13. Name of Person from whom Evidence Was Obtained: Jody Jones
15. Evidence Processed:
---Evidence NYSPIN: No
---Evidence Photographed: No
---Evidence Diagrammed: No
16. Was Search Warrant Issued: No
17. The facts as noted in section 11 above constitute a true and accurate description of the items seized.
Member: John C. Fitzpatrick. Subscribed and sworn to before me this 12 day of Feb., 1998.
18. Acknowledgement of Ownership:
19. Chain of Custody:
20. Final Disposition: rec'd from John Byrne 12/13/98 [sic] /s/ Ward Stone
[omitted]
Illinois Department of Agriculture - Bureau of Animal Disease Laboratory
9732 Shattuc Road, Centralia, Illinois 62801
TOXICOLOGY DEPARTMENT REPORT
EN CHEM
1795 Industrial Drive, Green Bay, WI 54302
920-469-2436, fax 920-469-8827, 1-800-7-ENCHEM
-Preliminary Analytical Report-
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
Division of Fish, Wildlife and Marine Resources
Wildlife Pathology Unit
108 Game Farm Road, Delmar, NY 12054
John P. Cahill
Commissioner
CONFIDENTIAL
M E M O R A N D U M
TO: Frank Bifera, Esq.
FROM: Ward Stone
SUBJECT: Peregrine Falcon from New York City (WPU Case #98-07-29)
DATE: May 12, 1998
The volume of orphaned, injured, diseased, and poisoned birds in New York City is big. At the present, I don't see that there is a good system in place to attempt to handle the load. We should cause the Center for Animal Care Control to have the proper licenses and trained personnel if they are to handle wildlife. We should also meet with interested groups, stakeholders and government agencies to come up with as efficient a plan as possible. It is very doubtful that we will ever have a system that can handle every debilitated pigeon, house sparrow, or gull that comes along.
/s/ Ward B. Stone
Wildlife Pathologist
WBS:rd
[handwritten text:] *I realize the biological importance of a single bird when they are rare, and a high priority has to be placed on their care. However, many from a humane view expect the same high quality care whether the bird is rare or common. As we discussed on the telephone most of the public is not skilled at identifying bird species.
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
Division of Fish, Wildlife and Marine Resources
Wildlife Pathology Unit
108 Game Farm Road, Delmar, NY 12054
John P. Cahill
Commissioner
CONFIDENTIAL
M E M O R A N D U M
TO: Udo Drescher
FROM: Ward Stone
SUBJECT: **CONFIDENTIAL - NYC CACC/Peregrine Falcon**
Volunteers for Wildlife Telephone Log
DATE: May 15, 1998
Ultimately, the Volunteers for Wildlife would be best at interpreting their log. Nevertheless, here is my interpretation. It seems clear on my copy, but a fax from a copy of a fax may be difficult to read.
The 1:00 PM February 12, 1998 Volunteers for Wildlife entry includes: Sallie suggested the bird be brought to Volunteers for Wildlife or another veterinarian. Sallie suggested the bird was dehydrated and asked if anyone there was qualified to gavage the bird with LRS (this is short for Lactated Ringers Solution). The answer by Judy Jones was yes, and that she could have the bird at the Volunteers for Wildlife by 5:00 PM on February 12, 1998.
Gavage is the use of a tube to administer fluids to the stomach. It is a safe method, in skilled hands, to get things like water, electrolytes, vitamins and minerals, nutrients, and some medications into an animal. Tubing, flushing and removal of fluids may also be involved in toxicant removal or reduction. The main problem to avoid is entry of the tube into the trachea and proper depth of insertion. Gavage is a common technique used by licensed wildlife rehabilitators.
See the attached from the NYSDEC Wildlife Rehabilitation Test Question Booklet.
/s/ Ward B. Stone
Wildlife Pathologist
Attachment
WBS:rd
New York State Wildlife Rehabilitation Examination Handbook
[omitted]
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
Division of Fish, Wildlife and Marine Resources
Wildlife Pathology Unit
108 Game Farm Road, Delmar, NY 12054
John P. Cahill
Commissioner
CONFIDENTIAL
M E M O R A N D U M
TO: ECO John Fitzpatrick
FROM: Ward Stone
SUBJECT: Volunteers for Wildlife Phone Log
DATE: May 12, 1998
Attached is the telephone record on peregrine falcon (WPU Log #98-07-29) that I received by fax on May 11, 1998.
The indications are that this peregrine was in critical condition when Volunteers for Wildlife (VFW) were called at 11:12 AM on February 12, 1998. They didn't seem to know what species raptor they had at the Center for Animal Care Control (CACC). In addition, at that time they thought the bird's problems were primarily an injury rather than poison.
At 1:00 PM, on February 12, 1998, Sallie Ruppert (VFW) suggested that the raptor was dehydrated and suggested gavage with lactated Ringers solution.
It could well be that the bird was hypothermic and dehydrated. The necropsy indicated dehydration was present. I haven't seen any body temperature data on the peregrine during it's stay at CACC. Sometimes you can get a good indication of body temperature when you handle a bird because they normally run a body temperature a little higher than humans. If the bird was hypothermic, it needed supplemental heat.
A bird with a severe cholinesterase inhibitor poisoning and greatly lowered brain cholinesterase would not be able to stand and would be expected to have little-to-no movement in the legs. The legs go first and poisoned birds will sometimes try to prop themselves up with their wings. However, as the poisoning progresses even that ability is lost and generally death results from respiratory failure.
This bird needed to be seen by a person(s) with more expertise with sick raptors, an x-ray, and laboratory tests (e.g. hematocrit, blood cholinesterase) would have been useful in diagnoses and treatment.
/s/ Ward B. Stone
Wildlife Pathologist
Attachment
WBS:rd
cc: S. Ruppert (VFW), J. Pane
[bold type indicates hand-written]
Volunteers for Wildlife Inc.
27 Lloyd Harbor Road
Huntington, NY
Phone 516-423-0984 Fax 516-423-0985
Fax Cover Letter
To: Ward Stone
From: Sallie Ruppert
Date: 5-11-98
Phone: (518) 478-3032 Fax: (518) 478-3035
Re:
This fax consists of 2 pages including this cover letter.
Comments:
Hello Ward-
We were zapped by lightning (on Wed) here at the Wildlife Center. Fax has just been repaired and we are partially back in business.
Going back on the phone log I pulled out the call from AC&C in New York City. Any questions please call.
Thanks -Sallie
Feb 12, 1998
11:12 AM - Call from Jody Jones @ NYC Animal Care & Control (Shelter). -She left a message voice mail re an injured falcon.
1:00 PM - Sallie called Jodi who said -
"Bird brought in yesterday"
"Blueish grey body" (Merlin?)
"Had red band 2206-05274
Has black band 3333."
Weak bird - lying on belly, stood up this morning."
Sallie suggested bring to VW or other vet.
Sallie suggested bird dehydrated and asked if anyone there was qualified to gavage LRS. -Answer was yes, and that she could have bird at VW by 5PM.
1:30 PM - Sallie called End. Sp. Unit @ Delmar and spoke to Barbara Connors & reported above info.
5:20PM - Jody called back that N.Y.S. DEC had taken bird to American Vet Hosp to Dr. Kat.
5/7/98 /s/ Sarah W. Ruppert (Sallie)
From: Udo Drescher
To: REG02.Delmar.wbstone, REG02.Delmar.baloucks, REG02
Date: 4/22/98 1:58pm
Subject: Death of Peregrine Falcon in NYC; Center for Animal Care and Control
** Confidential **
Hi.
I'm the assistant regional attorney involved in this matter. We are investigating the feasibility of commencing an enforcement proceeding against the CACC. In this context, and since some of our staff have been approached by opposing counsel and the press, please do not communicate with representatives of the CACC nor the press in this matter but refer them either to me (at 718-482-4965), Regional Attorney Laurie Silberfeld (same phone number) or the Regional Director of Region 2, Mary Ellen Kris at (718) 482-4949
Also, we are trying to schedule a meeting with the CACC. Possible dates are:
Friday, May 1, at 11:00
Thursday, May 7, at 1:30.
Please let me know
- if you are interested in attending such a meeting and
- when you are available.
Also, let me know other, feasible dates you could make it should neither of those two work out.
Thanks,
Udo M. Drescher
Assistant Regional Attorney
DEC Region 2
(718) 482-4963
CC: mekris, lxsilber
[handwritten by Ward Stone:] May 1, 1998 is out because of other commitments but May 4, 5, or 7 are good. The sooner the meeting the better.
From: Mary Ellen Kris
To: wfhewitt, lwkelly, jcfitzpa
Date: 3/4/98 3:43pm
Subject: Falcon Fatality
3/4
Gary Sheffer wants all press calls regarding the Falcon that died after being in the City's animal shelter to be directed to him.
cc: pxgallay, lxsilber, wmmcderm, nysdec.exec.lxlucca,...
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
Division of Fish, Wildlife and Marine Resources
Wildlife Pathology Unit
108 Game Farm Road, Delmar, NY 12054
John P. Cahill
Commissioner
M E M O R A N D U M
TO: Udo Drescher
FROM: Ward Stone
SUBJECT: **CONFIDENTIAL - NYC CACC/Peregrine Falcon**
DATE: May 15, 1998
As per your request, enclosed is my biography and Civil Service job description and outline.
The peregrine's organs, like the brain and liver, were utilized for toxicological analyses. The remainder of the bird was cremated as is standard procedure.
/s/ Ward B. Stone
Wildlife Pathologist
WBS:rd
TENTATIVE
Occ. Code 6119400
NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL SERVICE
CLASSIFICATION SPECIFICATION
BUREAU OF WILDIIFE
Associate Wildlife Pathologist, Grade 23
Associate Wildlife Patholooist, under the general direction of a Principal Wildlife Biologist (SG-25) in the Department of Environmental Conservation, diagnoses causes of wildife morbidity and mortality according to established procedures; investigates and evaluates the severity and implications of diseases, toxicological problems, or environmental contamination of wildlife and recommends corrective measures, including planning and conducting wildlife research studies designed to alleviate the problems identified; serves as Bureau of Wildlife liaison with intra-department units, the Department of Health, or the Department of Agriculture and Markets in cooperative investigations or studies of mutual concern or interest; acts as staff advisor on wildlife disease and toxicological problems to the Bureau Chief; provides training for Bureau field staff in routine necropsy and specimen collection procedures; assists law enforcement persor.nel ln D.E.C. and other state agencies by providing forensic pathological services and conducting training workshops; presents or publishes scientific papers and articles dealing with wildlife pathology, physiology, toxicology or contamination; performs administrative duties such as budget preparation, annual program planning and reporting; plans and directs the work of subordinates, providing appropriate training for new employees. QUALIFICATIONS: Bachelor's degree with courses in pathology, physiology, parasitology, microbiology, histology, or biochemistry, and five years of professional experience in the field of wildlife pathology, physiology and disease diagnosis. A master's degree with specialization in wildlife pathology, microbiology, physiology, parasitology, histology or biochemistry may be substituted for two years of the required experience. A doctorate in one of the above specialties may be substituted for four years of the required experience.
BIOGRAPHY OF WARD B. STONE
PERSONAL
Age 59, Born in Hudson, New York. Five children, Denise Kristin Stone (age 31), Jonathan Ward Stone (age 4 yrs), Jeremiah Ward Stone (3 yr), and Montana Marie Stone (1.5), and Ethan Alan Ward Stone (infant).
HOBBIES
I enjoy activities such as hiking, fishing, photography, travel to historic and natural areas, refinishing furniture and making crafts, and gardening, especially with family.
EDUCATION
Undergraduate and Graduate Degrees in Zoology from Syracuse University. Graduate of the Summer Institute of Acarology at Ohio State University.
Graduate of U.S. Navy Hospital Corps School (16 weeks) at Bainbridge, Maryland, and Graduate of the Blood Bank and Clinical Laboratory Technique School at the National Naval Medical School (60 weeks) Bethesda, Maryland. Post-Graduate work in Aviation Medicine, Preventive Medicine and Hospital Food Service Management.
HONORABLE DISCHARGES
U.S. Navy and U.S. Coast Guard.
RELEVANT MILITARY EXPERIENCE
Directly in charge of the laboratory on U.S.S. Breckinridge, and the laboratory and pharmacy on U.S.N.S. D.I.Sultan (Pacific Fleet). Military duties included giving parenteral and oral medications, drawing blood samples, performed laboratory analyses, assisted with postmortem examinations of military personnel and civilians, started I.V.'s, drawing units of blood for transfusion, carrying out cross matches, diagnosing and treating venereal diseases, suturing lacerations, and administering first response aid and rescue.
EMPLOYMENT
For about 29 years I have been in charge of the Wildlife Pathology Unit of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. In this position I am responsible for: (1) Diagnosing and monitoring the causes of sickness and death in the state's amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals; (2) Doing research on wildlife mortality factors; (3) Providing forensic wildlife pathology and expert testimony on wildlife cases for the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation's Division of Law Enforcement, the United States Environmental Protection Agency, the Attorney General, and others; (4) Developing new techniques for determining the age and condition of wildlife; (5) Carrying out numerous field investigations on the impact of pesticides on wildlife. (6) Many site investigations related to municipal landfills, construction debris dumps, hazardous waste sites, industrial discharges to water, refuse and medical incinerators, and oil spills for their impact on wildlife.
NYS Civil Service Titles
-Pathologist (2) Wildlife 1993-Present, (a change in title, but not function or grade).
-Associate Wildlife Pathologist 1970-1993.
-Senior Wildlife Pathologist 1969-1970.
PRIOR YEARS
While in college, I worked in the laboratory (hematology, clinical chemistry) of the Syracuse Memorial Hospital and the Blood Bank of the Crouse Irving Hospital. In addition, I was a teaching assistant at Syracuse University in parasitology, protozoology, comparative anatomy, comparative anatomy and physiology (for nursing students and physical education majors), and vertebrate biology.
While in high school and during winter college breaks, I ran a trap line for muskrats and mink. In trapping, I learned much about the habits and signs left by muskrats and mink, and experienced winter weather on the Indian and Punsit Brooks, as well as small local wetlands. I was also employed at the A&P Grocery Store in Chatham where I put stock on the shelves, packed groceries, and helped customers take them to their vehicles. I played football and baseball in high school and baseball for Spencertown and East Chatham in the Pony League. Friends during this time were Edward Farlinger, Eugene DiLorenzo, Robert Keller, Samuel Gleason, James Simmons, Nelson Hoffman, and Bruce Whiteman.
In my youth (15-17), I worked the Thorne Farm and the Heibler Farm both in Columbia County, New York. On the Thorne Farm, I cleaned and disinfected chicken brooder houses; collected, graded, and packed eggs; painted; and helped bring in the hay. On the Heibler Farm I helped with milking; cleaned the barn; put up fences; and cut brush. In addition, I picked apples for pay at orchards in the Valatie-Kinderhook area. I have especially fond memories of my time spent working on the farms. After working hard in a hay field for a long day and stacking hay bails in a loft, I was tired, but had a satisfied feeling of accomplishment.
Ages 11-15, I helped Harry Binsse, my stepfather, (a lineman for New York State Electric and Gas) build our house in the Town of Austerlitz, Columbia County. Work ranged from holding a flashlight, so that my step father could see to work at night, to helping hand dig footings, and drains, mixing cement, carrying stones and blocks, to rough carpentry. I also spent considerable time supervising my four younger brothers and sisters. Both my mother and stepfather enjoyed nature and did not discourage my interest in the environment. However, they did not think it was a suitable field in which to earn a living. We maintained a large vegetable garden, and it was my daily job to feed and water our poultry (chickens, ducks, geese), and collect and clean the eggs from the hens. I was also able to spend my free time exploring the local woods, fields, and streams (especially the Punsit and Indian Brooks), bird watching, fishing, trapping, and at fourteen hunting small game. I wrote an essay and won a week at the New York State Conservation Camp in Raybrook, New York.
As a boy (9-10), I helped mow the extensive landscaped lawns of Fred McQuade in Spencertown, New York - pulling the lawn mower with a rope harness, while Mr. McQuade guided the mower. Mr. McQuade was Australian, had an interesting accent, and told stories about whales and other animals as we mowed. I also helped Mr. McQuade bring his cows in from the pasture, and with haying. The money I earned generally went for fishing equipment, (trout fishing in the local streams was my passion). Richard Ludington was my closest boyhood friend, and he shared my fanatic interests in trout and streams. Other friends were Jack Howes, Kerry Williams, Alfred Nevin, Albert Hastings, Michael Pinto, John Paul Rundell, Tammy Rundell, and Ronald Clausen. I attended a two classroom country school (grades 1-4 in one room and 5-8 in the other) with an "outhouse" as a toilet. The teachers, especially Mrs. Buda, were excellent and supportive of my interests in nature. I liked to play football, baseball, and marbles. I also liked to perform in shows (e.g. magic and about Native Americans) before my school mates. I belonged to the 4H and enjoyed two weeks at 4H camp.
As a child of 3-11, I remember enjoying spending time with my maternal grandfather William Smith. His avocation was agriculture and he took me on his tractor for field work and introduced me to chickens, other livestock, and gardening. He also took me stream and lake fishing. He
was a New York Central Railroad Engineer, and I took several rides in the cab of his engine. This was especially exciting when he drove the train to Grand Central Station in New York City. In his last summer (1949), I spent a week with him at Indian Lake in Dutchess County, he was growing weak from lung cancer, but tried to fish and enjoy the environment. He liked nature and taught me about it by his example.
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS TRAINING
Completed training of "Health and Safety Operations at Hazardous Materials Sites", 29CFR 1910.120 (E)(3) - 40 hours, June 1990 at the Westchester County, New York Fire Training Center.
Completed "The Eight Hour Refresher Courses", taken annually. Last refresher taken February 28, 1996.
Latest Respirator Fit Test passed on 1/7/97 (Sonic Safety Service, 200 Salina Street, Liverpool, NY)
Completed "The Eight Hour Course for Supervisors of Hazardous Waste Operations" on April 2, 1993 conducted by the Hunter College School of Health Sciences.
CHEMICAL IMMOBILIZATION OF ANIMALS TRAINING
Completed the 16 hour training and examination for Chemical Immobilization of Animals given by Safe Capture Internation, Inc. on October 5th, 1997
AMERICAN RED CROSS TRAINING
Completed Community First Aid and Safety and Community CPR; 1995.
WILDLIFE REHABILITATION
I am a "Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator" in New York State, and have rehabilitated a wide variety of species ranging from robins and crows, to ring-necked pheasants, and raptors (screech owls, great-horned owls, red tailed hawks), to woodchucks, cottontail rabbits, gray squirrels, white tailed deer, bobcats and black bears. A major benefit of wildlife rehabilitation for me has been the personal experience I have gained with live wildlife and their biology.
I served on an inter-departmental committee in 1995-96 which developed a syllabus and training course needed for wildlife rehabilitators to take prior to being certified by the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation to rehabilitate rabies vector species.
On January 18, 1997, I gave a lecture and answered questions at the Rabies Training Teleconference for Wildlife Rehabilitators and Nuisance Animal Control Agents.
COLLEGE LECTURES AND SEMINARS
I have given lectures on wildlife diseases and toxics in the environment at many colleges and universities including: Adirondack Community College, Albany Law School, Albany Medical College, Antioch College (New Hampshire), Clarkson University, Columbia-Greene Community College, Cornell University, Fulton-Montgomery Community College, Hobart and Smith College, Hudson Valley Community College, Keuka College, New York University, Pace University, Paul Smith's College, Pennsylvania State University, Queens College, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Russell Sage College, Shippensburg State College (PA), Siena College, Skidmore College, St. Lawrence University, St. Rose College, Southern Vermont College, SUNY Albany, SUNY Binghamton, SUNY Buffalo, SUNY Canton, SUNY Cobleskill, SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry at Syracuse University, SUNY Cortland, SUNY Farmingdale, SUNY New Paltz, SUNY Oneonta, SUNY Plattsburg, SUNY Potsdam, SUNY Purchase, Sterling College (Vermont), Syracuse
University, Ulster County Community College, Union College, University of Connecticut (Storrs), University of Michigan (Dearborn), Utica College, and Vassar College.
LECTURES AND PRESENTATIONS TO GROUPS AND ORGANIZATIONS
I have given hundreds of lectures on subjects such as environmental pollution and wildlife diseases to: 4-H Clubs; Boy Scout Troops, the Albany Public Library Noon-time Seminars; Alcove Preservation Association; St. Clares Hospital (Schenectady); the Appalachian Mountain Club; Rotary Clubs; Lion's Clubs; public and private schools; rod and gun clubs; fishing clubs (e.g. Trout Unlimited; Onondaga Anglers); Sacandaga Lake Association; The Environmental Management Councils of Dutchess and Ulster Counties; Florence Jones Reinman Wildlife Sanctuary; the American Association of University Women; Daughters of the American Revolution; the Masonic Order; the American Association of Retired People; the National Wildlife Rehabilitation Association; the Connecticut Wildlife Rehabilitation Association; and the Volunteers for Wildlife (Long Island). Among the environmental organizations to which I have given talks are: The Citizens Environmental Coalition; Save the Pine Bush; The New York Public Interest Research Group (NYPIRG); The Environmental Planning Lobby (EPL); Great Lakes United; Adirondack Mountain Club; Clearwater (Hudson River); Green Peace, Save the River (St. Lawrence River); Sierra Club; The National Audubon Society; the Winston Farm Alliance; Save our Forest Action Coalition (Kingston); and the Nassau Union of Concerned Citizens. Presentations have also been made at professional meetings, such as the Northeastern Chapter of the Wildlife Society, The Wildlife Disease Association, and The American Society of Parasitologists, and a Pesticide Recertification Seminar sponsored by CNA Environmental (1994). I had the honor of speaking at the United Nations Trusteeship Council about pollution of Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) lands (7/18/95). Commencement Speaker for Darrow School (1996) - a private high school that utilizes the old buildings and lands of the historic Mt. Lebanon Shaker Colony.
RADIO SHOW
From 1995 to July, 1997, I was the guest host on the radio show "Earth Speak" Sunday mornings on 103.5/103.9 FM and WQBK 1300 AM with show host Michael Hotaling. In 1998, the show continues on Sunday mornings on 102.3/103.9 FM. This program covers timely environmental problems, and environmental newsmakers were interviewed.
EXHIBITS
In 1993, 1994, and 1995, I supervised, designed, and wrote extensive captions for exhibits on avian pathology, furbearer pathology, rabies, white-tailed deer pathology, construction debris dumps, and environmental pollution. Benjamin Moore played a major role in the success of these displays, both in photography and in construction. The exhibits were made from the photographic resources of the Wildlife Pathology Unit's extensive files of 35 mm slides. Displays were shown at the Albany, Columbia, Rensselaer, and Washington County Fairs (1993); the Labor and Environment Conference in Syracuse (1993); the Wolf Road Office of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (1993-1994 displays on rabies and construction debris dumps). In 1994, the exhibits were displayed at the General Electric Plant in Selkirk; the Saratoga, Glens Falls, Albany, and Syracuse Outdoor Shows; the Pember Museum at Granville, NY; Ducks Unlimited (Saratoga); the Oswego, Orange and Washington County Health Departments; Herkimer County Chapter of the Wild Turkey Federation; the Adirondack Deer Forum, Pulaski, NY; the Medical Auxiliary of Onondaga County Meeting in Syracuse; the Greene Middle School; the Guilderland Elementary School; the Capital District Exposition and Schenectady County Fair; the Oswego County Fair; the Chautauqua County Fair; the Saratoga County Fair; the Clinton County Fair; the Otsego County Fair; the Franklin County Fair; the Warren County Fair, the Delaware County Fair; Washington and Rensselaer County Fairs, the New Baltimore Antique Machinery and Agricultural Festival (Greene County); the New York State Legislative Office Building, the Eco Village at Woodstock, 1994; the Five Rivers Environmental Center Fall Festival; the Fall Rensselaer Festival; Siena College; the Fifth Annual Benefit for the Hudson Valley Raptor Center; Fort Plain High School; the Keepers of the Circle Festival at SUNY Albany; the Time Mirror Magazines 5th Annual Wildlife Adventure at Ski Windham; Fort Plain High School; Marie Curie Elementary School of Amsterdam, New York; Southern Vermont College; the Connecticut Wildlife Rehabilitation Association; the New York State Wildlife Rehabilitation Council; and Russell Sage College. In 1995, exhibits were displayed at the Junior Museum of Troy, Hudson Valley Community College, and Russell Sage College; the Rochester Outdoor Show; Native American Cultural Festival (Saratoga County Fairgrounds); Finger Lakes Community College; Adirondack Mountain Club (Lake George); Altamont Fair; Clinton County Fair; Saratoga County Fair; Schoharie County Fair; Broome County Fair; Washington County Fair; St. Lawrence County Fair; Putnam County 4-H Fair; and Columbia County Family Day. In 1996, exhibits were shown at the Hudson Valley Community College; Rochester Outdoor Show; Albany Public Library; Hudson Valley Raptor Center, Fragile Wilderness Show (Watertown); New Baltimore Antique Machinery and Agricultural Festival; Northeast Wildlife Association Conference (Farmington, Connecticut); the Onieda, Clinton, Saratoga, Washington, Rensselaer, and Dutchess County Fairs; the Edge Fest of Radio Station 103.5 and 103.9; The Five Rivers Albany City Water Commissioner Robert Cross; the Nassau Union of Concerned Citizens Chocolate Festival (New Lebanon, N.Y); and the Mohawk Nation at Akwesasne. In 1997 exhibits were shown at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, the Public Employees Federation Health and Safety Symposium (Albany); the Fragile Wilderness Show (Watertown); PEF Health & Safety Conference in Albany; the Rochester Sportsman Show; the Northeast Great Outdoors show in Albany; the Environmental Lobby Day at the Legislative Office Building in Albany; the Environmental Lobby Day in Troy; the Earth Day Celebration; the Northeast Fish and Wildlife Conference in Framingham, Massachusetts; the Macy Correctional Facility; the New Baltimore Agricultural Festival; the Family Forest Fair, Washington County; the Nassau Street Festival in Nassau; the Cattaraugus County Fair; the Cobleskill Fair; the Washington County Fair; the Rensselaer County Fair; the Saratoga County Fair; the Clinton County Fair; the Franklin County Fair; the Cobleskill Fair; the Herkimer County Fair; the Bear Forum in Old Forge; Silver Bay Pesticide Conference (Environmental Advocates); 5 Rivers Fall Festival in Delmar; and Columbia Greene Community College.
PUBLICATIONS
I have over 100 scientific and popular publications (a partial bibliography is furnished upon request).
LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
I have provided depositions and testimony on wildlife pathology and environmental pollutants (e.g. pesticides, diazinon and chlordane, polychlorinated biphenyls, mass incinerators, municipal landfills, and construction debris sites) in many legal proceedings ranging from local justice courts, to state supreme court, to federal court, and in hearings held by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and other governmental entities. In October 1994, I was as an expert witness in the Tempotech Industries, Inc. case in U.S. District Court in Syracuse, N.Y. In this case, I was called upon to show that salmon eggs, sold for human consumption, had originated in salmon from Lake Ontario. This was done by showing a unique pattern of contamination with toxics, especially mirex. The Lake Ontario salmon eggs are generally unsuitable for human consumption because of elevated levels of toxicants. In January, 1996, I was a witness in the Prisco Construction and Demolition Debris case at the U.S. District Court in Manhattan. In this case, the Prisco's sued New York State and waste haulers for damages and cost of remediation of a dump on their property from which they derived economic benefit.
In the fall of 1997, I worked with the New York Attorney General's Office on a case involving at a pet dump in Saratoga, New York. I was in charge of the exhumation and pathological studies of dog, cat, and other animal carcasses. Animals that the public paid to have cremated were found to have undergone mass burial. In addition, animals used in research and controlled medical waste (e.g. syringes, needles, drug with vials) were also uncovered. The defendant began a six month jail sentence in February, 1998 (by plea agreement) and will provide money for the humane care of animals, testing the dump site, and remediating the burial area.
On December 3, 1997, I appeared as an expert witness for the Essex County District Attorney and the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation in Minerva on a case involving the shooting of a female bear and her three cubs. I had done the post mortem examinations. The defendant was convicted of "three counts of taking in excess of the legal limit of bear, and three counts of processing untagged wildlife contrary to the terms of the regulations of the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation. The defendant was sentenced to 30 days in the Essex County jail and fined 900 dollars.
AWARDS AND HONORS
1998
Gave a Hayes Lecture on "The impact of pesticides and other toxics on birds" at the Buffalo Museum of Science. The lecture series is in its 89th year. The series brings "distinguished speakers to Buffalo to present public lectures on scientific subjects in their area of expertise".
1997
Received a framed photo of a Black Bear with an inscription that reads "To Ward Stone for his efforts in Black Bear Conservation". From: Citizens for Comprehensive Wildlife Management; New York Houndsmen Conservation Association; New York State Bear Hunters Association and the White Otter Fish & Game Club.
Received a framed certificate from the Nassau Union of Concerned Citizens stating "This certificate is hereby awarded to Ward Stone for outstanding dedication and work contributed to Nassau Union of Concerned Citizens" (Town of Nassau, Rensselaer County).
1996
Received the Stewart Park and Reserve Coalition's Snapping Turtle Award. The award is a cherry wood plaque with a casting of a snapping turtle shell, and an engraved inscription that reads "In Appreciation of a Trained Mind, A Keen Eye, and an Ability to Stick Ones Neck Out for the Environment When Necessary".
Selected by the Public Employees Federation to do a radio ad designed to help reverse the layoff of DEC employees. It was aired on five Capital District Stations.
Elected an Honorary Animal Control Officer in the Capitol District Animal Control Officer Association.
Given the New York State Humane Association, Inc. 1996 Wildlife Rehabilitator Award "For His Outstanding Commitment and Dedication to the Rescue, Rehabilitation, and Protection of Wildlife".
1994
Received a "Community Service Award", in recognition of work leading to the closure of the ANSWERS Incinerator, Albany, NY. Presented by Sheridan Hollow Neighborhood Association, Albany, NY.
Received a "Certificate of Merit", for "Extraordinary Work on the Environment". Presented by the Arbor Hill Concerned Citizens Neighborhood Association.
Received an award for "Appreciation for Outstanding Achievement for Tireless Efforts to Protect the Environment and Closure of the ANSWERS Incinerator, Albany, NY". Presented by Sierra Club, Hudson Mohawk Group.
Received an award for "Tireless Efforts in Protecting the People and Natural Environment in New York State". Presented by the New York Public Interest Research Group (NYPIRG) Board of Directors, 3/19/94.
I was given an award (a painting of a peregrine falcon by Glen Tracy) for "Research in Toxics and Diagnosis of Diseases in Raptors" by the Hudson
Valley Raptor Center, Incorporated. This is a not-for-profit organization that cares for injured raptors and breeds them to reintroduce the young to the wild.
A Sierra Club Award of Appreciation (11/10/94) "for years of speaking the truth about environmental pollution in New York State and for invaluable assistance in securing the closure of the polluting ANSWERS incinerator", presented by Roger Gray.
1992
Received the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution Conservation Medal on 9/24/92 at Albany, New York for Environmental Protection, Conservation, and Public Health.
1991
Received the "Excellence in Non-Human Effects Research Award" from the National Coalition Against the Misuse of Pesticides (NCAMP) for "Superb Scientific Efforts, Documenting the Damage and Mortality of Wildlife Resulting from Pesticide Use and Commitment to Working with Citizen Groups".
Keynote Speaker for the Rochester Academy of Science Annual Meeting on 11/2/91, at Hobart and William Smith College. In addition, elected by the Board of Directors of the Rochester Academy of Science as an Honorary Member.
Received a Native American carving of a bear, turtle and Indian warrior at the Labor and Environment Conference in Albany (11/24/91) for investigating the environmental threat of hazardous waste and construction debris sites to the environment.
1990
I received a painting, a symbolic interpretation of a turtle by Mohawk Artist Brad Bonaparte, from The North Country Environmental Awareness Organization Group.
The Catskill Greens held a dinner party for me in Woodstock, Ulster County. Congressman Maurice Hinchey, then a State Assemblyperson, was keynote speaker.
From the Onondaga Nation, I received a ribbon shirt and a carved bone necklace for cooperative work done with the Onondaga Nation on identifying and remediating pollution on their lands. This presentation was made by Chief Irving Powless.
I was honored by giving a Paul B. Zuber Urban and Environmental Seminar Series Lecture at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.
Received from Western New York Reach an "Honors Award with Special Recognition for All Contributions Made to Environmental Groups".
1989
Given a plaque by The New York State Conservation Council (Region IV) for "Dedication and Support of our Natural Resources Through Environmental Protection".
I received an award from The People United for Environmental Justice (Arlington, Virginia) "In Recognition of Outstanding Achievements and Dedication to Advancing the Cause of Environmental Justice".
A public rally was held on my behalf on the steps of the Capitol in Albany, New York in June to restore funding to the Wildlife Pathology Unit. Several hundred people attended, including representatives from the Mohawk Nation, NYPIRG, Sierra Club, and Public Employees Federation.
I received an award from The Toxics in Your Community Coalition for "Work to Cleanup Our Environment and Helping the Citizens in New York State".
The seventh issue of The Glens Falls Review (a literary magazine) was dedicated to my work, and I was honored to be a featured speaker at the opening of a new wing of the Hyde Museum at Glens Falls, New York.
A six foot long beaded ceremonial belt was presented to me, as a commendation by Chief Jake Swamp, on behalf of The Mohawk Nation for "Efforts to Control Pollution in the Grasse, Raquette, and St. Lawrence Rivers".
1988
Received the United States Environmental Protection Agency's Region II's Environmental Quality Award for State Government for "Extensive Research to Determine the Effects of Various Chemicals on Wildlife".
I was given a New York State Humane Association Special Award "In Appreciation of Many Years of Service to New York State Wildlife".
1987
Named "Conservationist of the Year" by The Pennsylvania Raptor and Wildlife Association. This honor was "In Recognition of Tireless and Outstanding Efforts in the Field of Wildlife Toxicology and Conservation'~.
1986
A plaque was awarded for "Work on Toxics in Wildlife" by The Toxics in Your Community Coalition.
Received the Fulton County Citizens Advisory Committee award for "Toxicant Investigations Done on Fulton County Hazardous Waste Sites".
I had the honor of giving the Second Annual Lawrence P. Verbit Memorial Lectures at the Chemistry Department of the State University of New York at Binghamton. One lecture was to scientists and the other a popular lecture open to the public.
1985
"The River Saver Award" (a bronze medal) was presented by The Save the River Environmental Organization on the St. Lawrence River for "Research on Toxics in the St. Lawrence River and It's Wildlife". Attorney General Robert Abrams was the keynote speaker. The noted 1960's activist Abbie Hoffman was also a speaker and he had been instrumental in starting the Save the River Organization.
The Mohawk Nation presented me with a friendship ring for "Cooperative Investigations of Pollution Problems on Mohawk Lands Near Massena, New York.
"The Outstanding Scientific Paper on Wildlife Award" for a paper given on the movement of PCBs from a hazardous waste site through the wildlife foodchain was received from The Northeast Section of Wildlife Society, (co-authors, Mark Watson and Joseph Okoniewski).
1984
Received the "Oak Leaf Award" from The Eastern New York Chapter of The Nature Conservancy for "Research on Environmental Pollutants".
Received the "New York State Outdoor Education Association's Award" for Research on Environmental Problems in New York.
1983
Named "Conservationist of The Year" by The Albany County Audubon Society.
Awarded a plaque by The New York State Public Employee's Federation "In Recognition of Dedicated Professional Services Consistently Performed Above and Beyond the Normal Commitment to the Public".
1980
I received a plaque and luncheon for "Outstanding Contributions to Conservation Law Enforcement and Dedication to the Conservation Officers", Presented by the New York State Environmental Conservation Officers.
1977
I received an award from The Hudson River Fishermen's Association for "Research on PCBs in Wildlife".
1976
The Fur Takers of America gave me "The Writer of Written on Furbearer Management and Diseases".
I gave a statement on the environment to the Democratic Presidential Platform Committee in Denver - Colorado on May l, 1976
1975
I received "The President's Award" from The National Trapper's Association and "The Trapper Conservationist Award" from the same organization. These awards were given for "Contributions to Furbearer Management and Research on Furbearer Diseases".
I represented the NYSDEC as one of four participants in a debate on hunting, pro or con; held at SUNY Buffalo on 2/14/75. The two hour debate was broadcast over the Public Service Radio Station WBFO and was covered by many other public service stations. My partner on the pro-hunting side was John Ailes of the National Riffle Association, and our opponents were the writer Cleveland Amory and William Grosscup, a Detroit television host.
Prior Years
Undergraduate National Science Foundation Fellowship for studying the survival of Toxoplasma in water and a graduate National Wildlife Federation Fellowship for "the Study of the Diseases and Parasites of Waterfowl".
Elected to Delta Sigma Rho National Debate Honorary. Won "Best Negative Speaker" at the Daniel Webster Debate Tournament (18 colleges and universities) at LeMoyne College (Syracuse, N.Y.).
Honor-Man of my class at Hospital Corps School (U.S. Navy). Received a "U.S. Navy Captain's Commendation" for post-mortem work done on U.S. Navy Airmen killed in an anti-submarine patrol aircraft crash near Key West, Florida.
ADVISORY POSITIONS TO ORGANIZATIONS
[omitted]
Illinois Department of Agriculture - Bureau of Animal Disease Laboratory
9732 Shattuc Road, Centralia, Illinois 62801
TOXICOLOGY DEPARTMENT REPORT
EN CHEM
1795 Industrial Drive, Green Bay, WI 54302
920-469-2436, fax 920-469-8827, 1-800-7-ENCHEM
-Preliminary Analytical Report-
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
Division of Fish, Wildlife and Marine Resources
Wildlife Pathology Unit
108 Game Farm Road, Delmar, NY 12054
John P. Cahill
Commissioner
CONFIDENTIAL
M E M O R A N D U M
TO: Frank Bifera, Esq.
FROM: Ward Stone
SUBJECT: Peregrine Falcon from New York City (WPU Case #98-07-29)
DATE: May 12, 1998
The volume of orphaned, injured, diseased, and poisoned birds in New York City is big. At the present, I don't see that there is a good system in place to attempt to handle the load. We should cause the Center for Animal Care Control to have the proper licenses and trained personnel if they are to handle wildlife. We should also meet with interested groups, stakeholders and government agencies to come up with as efficient a plan as possible. It is very doubtful that we will ever have a system that can handle every debilitated pigeon, house sparrow, or gull that comes along.
/s/ Ward B. Stone
Wildlife Pathologist
WBS:rd
[handwritten text:] *I realize the biological importance of a single bird when they are rare, and a high priority has to be placed on their care. However, many from a humane view expect the same high quality care whether the bird is rare or common. As we discussed on the telephone most of the public is not skilled at identifying bird species.
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
Division of Fish, Wildlife and Marine Resources
Wildlife Pathology Unit
108 Game Farm Road, Delmar, NY 12054
John P. Cahill
Commissioner
CONFIDENTIAL
M E M O R A N D U M
TO: Udo Drescher
FROM: Ward Stone
SUBJECT: **CONFIDENTIAL - NYC CACC/Peregrine Falcon**
Volunteers for Wildlife Telephone Log
DATE: May 15, 1998
Ultimately, the Volunteers for Wildlife would be best at interpreting their log. Nevertheless, here is my interpretation. It seems clear on my copy, but a fax from a copy of a fax may be difficult to read.
The 1:00 PM February 12, 1998 Volunteers for Wildlife entry includes: Sallie suggested the bird be brought to Volunteers for Wildlife or another veterinarian. Sallie suggested the bird was dehydrated and asked if anyone there was qualified to gavage the bird with LRS (this is short for Lactated Ringers Solution). The answer by Judy Jones was yes, and that she could have the bird at the Volunteers for Wildlife by 5:00 PM on February 12, 1998.
Gavage is the use of a tube to administer fluids to the stomach. It is a safe method, in skilled hands, to get things like water, electrolytes, vitamins and minerals, nutrients, and some medications into an animal. Tubing, flushing and removal of fluids may also be involved in toxicant removal or reduction. The main problem to avoid is entry of the tube into the trachea and proper depth of insertion. Gavage is a common technique used by licensed wildlife rehabilitators.
See the attached from the NYSDEC Wildlife Rehabilitation Test Question Booklet.
/s/ Ward B. Stone
Wildlife Pathologist
Attachment
WBS:rd
New York State Wildlife Rehabilitation Examination Handbook
[omitted]
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
Division of Fish, Wildlife and Marine Resources
Wildlife Pathology Unit
108 Game Farm Road, Delmar, NY 12054
John P. Cahill
Commissioner
CONFIDENTIAL
M E M O R A N D U M
TO: ECO John Fitzpatrick
FROM: Ward Stone
SUBJECT: Volunteers for Wildlife Phone Log
DATE: May 12, 1998
Attached is the telephone record on peregrine falcon (WPU Log #98-07-29) that I received by fax on May 11, 1998.
The indications are that this peregrine was in critical condition when Volunteers for Wildlife (VFW) were called at 11:12 AM on February 12, 1998. They didn't seem to know what species raptor they had at the Center for Animal Care Control (CACC). In addition, at that time they thought the bird's problems were primarily an injury rather than poison.
At 1:00 PM, on February 12, 1998, Sallie Ruppert (VFW) suggested that the raptor was dehydrated and suggested gavage with lactated Ringers solution.
It could well be that the bird was hypothermic and dehydrated. The necropsy indicated dehydration was present. I haven't seen any body temperature data on the peregrine during it's stay at CACC. Sometimes you can get a good indication of body temperature when you handle a bird because they normally run a body temperature a little higher than humans. If the bird was hypothermic, it needed supplemental heat.
A bird with a severe cholinesterase inhibitor poisoning and greatly lowered brain cholinesterase would not be able to stand and would be expected to have little-to-no movement in the legs. The legs go first and poisoned birds will sometimes try to prop themselves up with their wings. However, as the poisoning progresses even that ability is lost and generally death results from respiratory failure.
This bird needed to be seen by a person(s) with more expertise with sick raptors, an x-ray, and laboratory tests (e.g. hematocrit, blood cholinesterase) would have been useful in diagnoses and treatment.
/s/ Ward B. Stone
Wildlife Pathologist
Attachment
WBS:rd
cc: S. Ruppert (VFW), J. Pane
[bold type indicates hand-written]
Volunteers for Wildlife Inc.
27 Lloyd Harbor Road
Huntington, NY
Phone 516-423-0984 Fax 516-423-0985
Fax Cover Letter
To: Ward Stone
From: Sallie Ruppert
Date: 5-11-98
Phone: (518) 478-3032 Fax: (518) 478-3035
Re:
This fax consists of 2 pages including this cover letter.
Comments:
Hello Ward-
We were zapped by lightning (on Wed) here at the Wildlife Center. Fax has just been repaired and we are partially back in business.
Going back on the phone log I pulled out the call from AC&C in New York City. Any questions please call.
Thanks -Sallie
Feb 12, 1998
11:12 AM - Call from Jody Jones @ NYC Animal Care & Control (Shelter). -She left a message voice mail re an injured falcon.
1:00 PM - Sallie called Jodi who said -
"Bird brought in yesterday"
"Blueish grey body" (Merlin?)
"Had red band 2206-05274
Has black band 3333."
Weak bird - lying on belly, stood up this morning."
Sallie suggested bring to VW or other vet.
Sallie suggested bird dehydrated and asked if anyone there was qualified to gavage LRS. -Answer was yes, and that she could have bird at VW by 5PM.
1:30 PM - Sallie called End. Sp. Unit @ Delmar and spoke to Barbara Connors & reported above info.
5:20PM - Jody called back that N.Y.S. DEC had taken bird to American Vet Hosp to Dr. Kat.
5/7/98 /s/ Sarah W. Ruppert (Sallie)
From: Udo Drescher
To: REG02.Delmar.wbstone, REG02.Delmar.baloucks, REG02
Date: 4/22/98 1:58pm
Subject: Death of Peregrine Falcon in NYC; Center for Animal Care and Control
** Confidential **
Hi.
I'm the assistant regional attorney involved in this matter. We are investigating the feasibility of commencing an enforcement proceeding against the CACC. In this context, and since some of our staff have been approached by opposing counsel and the press, please do not communicate with representatives of the CACC nor the press in this matter but refer them either to me (at 718-482-4965), Regional Attorney Laurie Silberfeld (same phone number) or the Regional Director of Region 2, Mary Ellen Kris at (718) 482-4949
Also, we are trying to schedule a meeting with the CACC. Possible dates are:
Friday, May 1, at 11:00
Thursday, May 7, at 1:30.
Please let me know
- if you are interested in attending such a meeting and
- when you are available.
Also, let me know other, feasible dates you could make it should neither of those two work out.
Thanks,
Udo M. Drescher
Assistant Regional Attorney
DEC Region 2
(718) 482-4963
CC: mekris, lxsilber
[handwritten by Ward Stone:] May 1, 1998 is out because of other commitments but May 4, 5, or 7 are good. The sooner the meeting the better.
From: Mary Ellen Kris
To: wfhewitt, lwkelly, jcfitzpa
Date: 3/4/98 3:43pm
Subject: Falcon Fatality
3/4
Gary Sheffer wants all press calls regarding the Falcon that died after being in the City's animal shelter to be directed to him.
cc: pxgallay, lxsilber, wmmcderm, nysdec.exec.lxlucca,...
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
Division of Fish, Wildlife and Marine Resources
Wildlife Pathology Unit
108 Game Farm Road, Delmar, NY 12054
John P. Cahill
Commissioner
M E M O R A N D U M
TO: Udo Drescher
FROM: Ward Stone
SUBJECT: **CONFIDENTIAL - NYC CACC/Peregrine Falcon**
DATE: May 15, 1998
As per your request, enclosed is my biography and Civil Service job description and outline.
The peregrine's organs, like the brain and liver, were utilized for toxicological analyses. The remainder of the bird was cremated as is standard procedure.
/s/ Ward B. Stone
Wildlife Pathologist
WBS:rd
TENTATIVE
Occ. Code 6119400
NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL SERVICE
CLASSIFICATION SPECIFICATION
BUREAU OF WILDIIFE
Associate Wildlife Pathologist, Grade 23
Associate Wildlife Patholooist, under the general direction of a Principal Wildlife Biologist (SG-25) in the Department of Environmental Conservation, diagnoses causes of wildife morbidity and mortality according to established procedures; investigates and evaluates the severity and implications of diseases, toxicological problems, or environmental contamination of wildlife and recommends corrective measures, including planning and conducting wildlife research studies designed to alleviate the problems identified; serves as Bureau of Wildlife liaison with intra-department units, the Department of Health, or the Department of Agriculture and Markets in cooperative investigations or studies of mutual concern or interest; acts as staff advisor on wildlife disease and toxicological problems to the Bureau Chief; provides training for Bureau field staff in routine necropsy and specimen collection procedures; assists law enforcement persor.nel ln D.E.C. and other state agencies by providing forensic pathological services and conducting training workshops; presents or publishes scientific papers and articles dealing with wildlife pathology, physiology, toxicology or contamination; performs administrative duties such as budget preparation, annual program planning and reporting; plans and directs the work of subordinates, providing appropriate training for new employees. QUALIFICATIONS: Bachelor's degree with courses in pathology, physiology, parasitology, microbiology, histology, or biochemistry, and five years of professional experience in the field of wildlife pathology, physiology and disease diagnosis. A master's degree with specialization in wildlife pathology, microbiology, physiology, parasitology, histology or biochemistry may be substituted for two years of the required experience. A doctorate in one of the above specialties may be substituted for four years of the required experience.
BIOGRAPHY OF WARD B. STONE
PERSONAL
Age 59, Born in Hudson, New York. Five children, Denise Kristin Stone (age 31), Jonathan Ward Stone (age 4 yrs), Jeremiah Ward Stone (3 yr), and Montana Marie Stone (1.5), and Ethan Alan Ward Stone (infant).
HOBBIES
I enjoy activities such as hiking, fishing, photography, travel to historic and natural areas, refinishing furniture and making crafts, and gardening, especially with family.
EDUCATION
Undergraduate and Graduate Degrees in Zoology from Syracuse University. Graduate of the Summer Institute of Acarology at Ohio State University.
Graduate of U.S. Navy Hospital Corps School (16 weeks) at Bainbridge, Maryland, and Graduate of the Blood Bank and Clinical Laboratory Technique School at the National Naval Medical School (60 weeks) Bethesda, Maryland. Post-Graduate work in Aviation Medicine, Preventive Medicine and Hospital Food Service Management.
HONORABLE DISCHARGES
U.S. Navy and U.S. Coast Guard.
RELEVANT MILITARY EXPERIENCE
Directly in charge of the laboratory on U.S.S. Breckinridge, and the laboratory and pharmacy on U.S.N.S. D.I.Sultan (Pacific Fleet). Military duties included giving parenteral and oral medications, drawing blood samples, performed laboratory analyses, assisted with postmortem examinations of military personnel and civilians, started I.V.'s, drawing units of blood for transfusion, carrying out cross matches, diagnosing and treating venereal diseases, suturing lacerations, and administering first response aid and rescue.
EMPLOYMENT
For about 29 years I have been in charge of the Wildlife Pathology Unit of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. In this position I am responsible for: (1) Diagnosing and monitoring the causes of sickness and death in the state's amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals; (2) Doing research on wildlife mortality factors; (3) Providing forensic wildlife pathology and expert testimony on wildlife cases for the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation's Division of Law Enforcement, the United States Environmental Protection Agency, the Attorney General, and others; (4) Developing new techniques for determining the age and condition of wildlife; (5) Carrying out numerous field investigations on the impact of pesticides on wildlife. (6) Many site investigations related to municipal landfills, construction debris dumps, hazardous waste sites, industrial discharges to water, refuse and medical incinerators, and oil spills for their impact on wildlife.
NYS Civil Service Titles
-Pathologist (2) Wildlife 1993-Present, (a change in title, but not function or grade).
-Associate Wildlife Pathologist 1970-1993.
-Senior Wildlife Pathologist 1969-1970.
PRIOR YEARS
While in college, I worked in the laboratory (hematology, clinical chemistry) of the Syracuse Memorial Hospital and the Blood Bank of the Crouse Irving Hospital. In addition, I was a teaching assistant at Syracuse University in parasitology, protozoology, comparative anatomy, comparative anatomy and physiology (for nursing students and physical education majors), and vertebrate biology.
While in high school and during winter college breaks, I ran a trap line for muskrats and mink. In trapping, I learned much about the habits and signs left by muskrats and mink, and experienced winter weather on the Indian and Punsit Brooks, as well as small local wetlands. I was also employed at the A&P Grocery Store in Chatham where I put stock on the shelves, packed groceries, and helped customers take them to their vehicles. I played football and baseball in high school and baseball for Spencertown and East Chatham in the Pony League. Friends during this time were Edward Farlinger, Eugene DiLorenzo, Robert Keller, Samuel Gleason, James Simmons, Nelson Hoffman, and Bruce Whiteman.
In my youth (15-17), I worked the Thorne Farm and the Heibler Farm both in Columbia County, New York. On the Thorne Farm, I cleaned and disinfected chicken brooder houses; collected, graded, and packed eggs; painted; and helped bring in the hay. On the Heibler Farm I helped with milking; cleaned the barn; put up fences; and cut brush. In addition, I picked apples for pay at orchards in the Valatie-Kinderhook area. I have especially fond memories of my time spent working on the farms. After working hard in a hay field for a long day and stacking hay bails in a loft, I was tired, but had a satisfied feeling of accomplishment.
Ages 11-15, I helped Harry Binsse, my stepfather, (a lineman for New York State Electric and Gas) build our house in the Town of Austerlitz, Columbia County. Work ranged from holding a flashlight, so that my step father could see to work at night, to helping hand dig footings, and drains, mixing cement, carrying stones and blocks, to rough carpentry. I also spent considerable time supervising my four younger brothers and sisters. Both my mother and stepfather enjoyed nature and did not discourage my interest in the environment. However, they did not think it was a suitable field in which to earn a living. We maintained a large vegetable garden, and it was my daily job to feed and water our poultry (chickens, ducks, geese), and collect and clean the eggs from the hens. I was also able to spend my free time exploring the local woods, fields, and streams (especially the Punsit and Indian Brooks), bird watching, fishing, trapping, and at fourteen hunting small game. I wrote an essay and won a week at the New York State Conservation Camp in Raybrook, New York.
As a boy (9-10), I helped mow the extensive landscaped lawns of Fred McQuade in Spencertown, New York - pulling the lawn mower with a rope harness, while Mr. McQuade guided the mower. Mr. McQuade was Australian, had an interesting accent, and told stories about whales and other animals as we mowed. I also helped Mr. McQuade bring his cows in from the pasture, and with haying. The money I earned generally went for fishing equipment, (trout fishing in the local streams was my passion). Richard Ludington was my closest boyhood friend, and he shared my fanatic interests in trout and streams. Other friends were Jack Howes, Kerry Williams, Alfred Nevin, Albert Hastings, Michael Pinto, John Paul Rundell, Tammy Rundell, and Ronald Clausen. I attended a two classroom country school (grades 1-4 in one room and 5-8 in the other) with an "outhouse" as a toilet. The teachers, especially Mrs. Buda, were excellent and supportive of my interests in nature. I liked to play football, baseball, and marbles. I also liked to perform in shows (e.g. magic and about Native Americans) before my school mates. I belonged to the 4H and enjoyed two weeks at 4H camp.
As a child of 3-11, I remember enjoying spending time with my maternal grandfather William Smith. His avocation was agriculture and he took me on his tractor for field work and introduced me to chickens, other livestock, and gardening. He also took me stream and lake fishing. He
was a New York Central Railroad Engineer, and I took several rides in the cab of his engine. This was especially exciting when he drove the train to Grand Central Station in New York City. In his last summer (1949), I spent a week with him at Indian Lake in Dutchess County, he was growing weak from lung cancer, but tried to fish and enjoy the environment. He liked nature and taught me about it by his example.
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS TRAINING
Completed training of "Health and Safety Operations at Hazardous Materials Sites", 29CFR 1910.120 (E)(3) - 40 hours, June 1990 at the Westchester County, New York Fire Training Center.
Completed "The Eight Hour Refresher Courses", taken annually. Last refresher taken February 28, 1996.
Latest Respirator Fit Test passed on 1/7/97 (Sonic Safety Service, 200 Salina Street, Liverpool, NY)
Completed "The Eight Hour Course for Supervisors of Hazardous Waste Operations" on April 2, 1993 conducted by the Hunter College School of Health Sciences.
CHEMICAL IMMOBILIZATION OF ANIMALS TRAINING
Completed the 16 hour training and examination for Chemical Immobilization of Animals given by Safe Capture Internation, Inc. on October 5th, 1997
AMERICAN RED CROSS TRAINING
Completed Community First Aid and Safety and Community CPR; 1995.
WILDLIFE REHABILITATION
I am a "Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator" in New York State, and have rehabilitated a wide variety of species ranging from robins and crows, to ring-necked pheasants, and raptors (screech owls, great-horned owls, red tailed hawks), to woodchucks, cottontail rabbits, gray squirrels, white tailed deer, bobcats and black bears. A major benefit of wildlife rehabilitation for me has been the personal experience I have gained with live wildlife and their biology.
I served on an inter-departmental committee in 1995-96 which developed a syllabus and training course needed for wildlife rehabilitators to take prior to being certified by the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation to rehabilitate rabies vector species.
On January 18, 1997, I gave a lecture and answered questions at the Rabies Training Teleconference for Wildlife Rehabilitators and Nuisance Animal Control Agents.
COLLEGE LECTURES AND SEMINARS
I have given lectures on wildlife diseases and toxics in the environment at many colleges and universities including: Adirondack Community College, Albany Law School, Albany Medical College, Antioch College (New Hampshire), Clarkson University, Columbia-Greene Community College, Cornell University, Fulton-Montgomery Community College, Hobart and Smith College, Hudson Valley Community College, Keuka College, New York University, Pace University, Paul Smith's College, Pennsylvania State University, Queens College, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Russell Sage College, Shippensburg State College (PA), Siena College, Skidmore College, St. Lawrence University, St. Rose College, Southern Vermont College, SUNY Albany, SUNY Binghamton, SUNY Buffalo, SUNY Canton, SUNY Cobleskill, SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry at Syracuse University, SUNY Cortland, SUNY Farmingdale, SUNY New Paltz, SUNY Oneonta, SUNY Plattsburg, SUNY Potsdam, SUNY Purchase, Sterling College (Vermont), Syracuse
University, Ulster County Community College, Union College, University of Connecticut (Storrs), University of Michigan (Dearborn), Utica College, and Vassar College.
LECTURES AND PRESENTATIONS TO GROUPS AND ORGANIZATIONS
I have given hundreds of lectures on subjects such as environmental pollution and wildlife diseases to: 4-H Clubs; Boy Scout Troops, the Albany Public Library Noon-time Seminars; Alcove Preservation Association; St. Clares Hospital (Schenectady); the Appalachian Mountain Club; Rotary Clubs; Lion's Clubs; public and private schools; rod and gun clubs; fishing clubs (e.g. Trout Unlimited; Onondaga Anglers); Sacandaga Lake Association; The Environmental Management Councils of Dutchess and Ulster Counties; Florence Jones Reinman Wildlife Sanctuary; the American Association of University Women; Daughters of the American Revolution; the Masonic Order; the American Association of Retired People; the National Wildlife Rehabilitation Association; the Connecticut Wildlife Rehabilitation Association; and the Volunteers for Wildlife (Long Island). Among the environmental organizations to which I have given talks are: The Citizens Environmental Coalition; Save the Pine Bush; The New York Public Interest Research Group (NYPIRG); The Environmental Planning Lobby (EPL); Great Lakes United; Adirondack Mountain Club; Clearwater (Hudson River); Green Peace, Save the River (St. Lawrence River); Sierra Club; The National Audubon Society; the Winston Farm Alliance; Save our Forest Action Coalition (Kingston); and the Nassau Union of Concerned Citizens. Presentations have also been made at professional meetings, such as the Northeastern Chapter of the Wildlife Society, The Wildlife Disease Association, and The American Society of Parasitologists, and a Pesticide Recertification Seminar sponsored by CNA Environmental (1994). I had the honor of speaking at the United Nations Trusteeship Council about pollution of Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) lands (7/18/95). Commencement Speaker for Darrow School (1996) - a private high school that utilizes the old buildings and lands of the historic Mt. Lebanon Shaker Colony.
RADIO SHOW
From 1995 to July, 1997, I was the guest host on the radio show "Earth Speak" Sunday mornings on 103.5/103.9 FM and WQBK 1300 AM with show host Michael Hotaling. In 1998, the show continues on Sunday mornings on 102.3/103.9 FM. This program covers timely environmental problems, and environmental newsmakers were interviewed.
EXHIBITS
In 1993, 1994, and 1995, I supervised, designed, and wrote extensive captions for exhibits on avian pathology, furbearer pathology, rabies, white-tailed deer pathology, construction debris dumps, and environmental pollution. Benjamin Moore played a major role in the success of these displays, both in photography and in construction. The exhibits were made from the photographic resources of the Wildlife Pathology Unit's extensive files of 35 mm slides. Displays were shown at the Albany, Columbia, Rensselaer, and Washington County Fairs (1993); the Labor and Environment Conference in Syracuse (1993); the Wolf Road Office of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (1993-1994 displays on rabies and construction debris dumps). In 1994, the exhibits were displayed at the General Electric Plant in Selkirk; the Saratoga, Glens Falls, Albany, and Syracuse Outdoor Shows; the Pember Museum at Granville, NY; Ducks Unlimited (Saratoga); the Oswego, Orange and Washington County Health Departments; Herkimer County Chapter of the Wild Turkey Federation; the Adirondack Deer Forum, Pulaski, NY; the Medical Auxiliary of Onondaga County Meeting in Syracuse; the Greene Middle School; the Guilderland Elementary School; the Capital District Exposition and Schenectady County Fair; the Oswego County Fair; the Chautauqua County Fair; the Saratoga County Fair; the Clinton County Fair; the Otsego County Fair; the Franklin County Fair; the Warren County Fair, the Delaware County Fair; Washington and Rensselaer County Fairs, the New Baltimore Antique Machinery and Agricultural Festival (Greene County); the New York State Legislative Office Building, the Eco Village at Woodstock, 1994; the Five Rivers Environmental Center Fall Festival; the Fall Rensselaer Festival; Siena College; the Fifth Annual Benefit for the Hudson Valley Raptor Center; Fort Plain High School; the Keepers of the Circle Festival at SUNY Albany; the Time Mirror Magazines 5th Annual Wildlife Adventure at Ski Windham; Fort Plain High School; Marie Curie Elementary School of Amsterdam, New York; Southern Vermont College; the Connecticut Wildlife Rehabilitation Association; the New York State Wildlife Rehabilitation Council; and Russell Sage College. In 1995, exhibits were displayed at the Junior Museum of Troy, Hudson Valley Community College, and Russell Sage College; the Rochester Outdoor Show; Native American Cultural Festival (Saratoga County Fairgrounds); Finger Lakes Community College; Adirondack Mountain Club (Lake George); Altamont Fair; Clinton County Fair; Saratoga County Fair; Schoharie County Fair; Broome County Fair; Washington County Fair; St. Lawrence County Fair; Putnam County 4-H Fair; and Columbia County Family Day. In 1996, exhibits were shown at the Hudson Valley Community College; Rochester Outdoor Show; Albany Public Library; Hudson Valley Raptor Center, Fragile Wilderness Show (Watertown); New Baltimore Antique Machinery and Agricultural Festival; Northeast Wildlife Association Conference (Farmington, Connecticut); the Onieda, Clinton, Saratoga, Washington, Rensselaer, and Dutchess County Fairs; the Edge Fest of Radio Station 103.5 and 103.9; The Five Rivers Albany City Water Commissioner Robert Cross; the Nassau Union of Concerned Citizens Chocolate Festival (New Lebanon, N.Y); and the Mohawk Nation at Akwesasne. In 1997 exhibits were shown at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, the Public Employees Federation Health and Safety Symposium (Albany); the Fragile Wilderness Show (Watertown); PEF Health & Safety Conference in Albany; the Rochester Sportsman Show; the Northeast Great Outdoors show in Albany; the Environmental Lobby Day at the Legislative Office Building in Albany; the Environmental Lobby Day in Troy; the Earth Day Celebration; the Northeast Fish and Wildlife Conference in Framingham, Massachusetts; the Macy Correctional Facility; the New Baltimore Agricultural Festival; the Family Forest Fair, Washington County; the Nassau Street Festival in Nassau; the Cattaraugus County Fair; the Cobleskill Fair; the Washington County Fair; the Rensselaer County Fair; the Saratoga County Fair; the Clinton County Fair; the Franklin County Fair; the Cobleskill Fair; the Herkimer County Fair; the Bear Forum in Old Forge; Silver Bay Pesticide Conference (Environmental Advocates); 5 Rivers Fall Festival in Delmar; and Columbia Greene Community College.
PUBLICATIONS
I have over 100 scientific and popular publications (a partial bibliography is furnished upon request).
LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
I have provided depositions and testimony on wildlife pathology and environmental pollutants (e.g. pesticides, diazinon and chlordane, polychlorinated biphenyls, mass incinerators, municipal landfills, and construction debris sites) in many legal proceedings ranging from local justice courts, to state supreme court, to federal court, and in hearings held by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and other governmental entities. In October 1994, I was as an expert witness in the Tempotech Industries, Inc. case in U.S. District Court in Syracuse, N.Y. In this case, I was called upon to show that salmon eggs, sold for human consumption, had originated in salmon from Lake Ontario. This was done by showing a unique pattern of contamination with toxics, especially mirex. The Lake Ontario salmon eggs are generally unsuitable for human consumption because of elevated levels of toxicants. In January, 1996, I was a witness in the Prisco Construction and Demolition Debris case at the U.S. District Court in Manhattan. In this case, the Prisco's sued New York State and waste haulers for damages and cost of remediation of a dump on their property from which they derived economic benefit.
In the fall of 1997, I worked with the New York Attorney General's Office on a case involving at a pet dump in Saratoga, New York. I was in charge of the exhumation and pathological studies of dog, cat, and other animal carcasses. Animals that the public paid to have cremated were found to have undergone mass burial. In addition, animals used in research and controlled medical waste (e.g. syringes, needles, drug with vials) were also uncovered. The defendant began a six month jail sentence in February, 1998 (by plea agreement) and will provide money for the humane care of animals, testing the dump site, and remediating the burial area.
On December 3, 1997, I appeared as an expert witness for the Essex County District Attorney and the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation in Minerva on a case involving the shooting of a female bear and her three cubs. I had done the post mortem examinations. The defendant was convicted of "three counts of taking in excess of the legal limit of bear, and three counts of processing untagged wildlife contrary to the terms of the regulations of the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation. The defendant was sentenced to 30 days in the Essex County jail and fined 900 dollars.
AWARDS AND HONORS
1998
Gave a Hayes Lecture on "The impact of pesticides and other toxics on birds" at the Buffalo Museum of Science. The lecture series is in its 89th year. The series brings "distinguished speakers to Buffalo to present public lectures on scientific subjects in their area of expertise".
1997
Received a framed photo of a Black Bear with an inscription that reads "To Ward Stone for his efforts in Black Bear Conservation". From: Citizens for Comprehensive Wildlife Management; New York Houndsmen Conservation Association; New York State Bear Hunters Association and the White Otter Fish & Game Club.
Received a framed certificate from the Nassau Union of Concerned Citizens stating "This certificate is hereby awarded to Ward Stone for outstanding dedication and work contributed to Nassau Union of Concerned Citizens" (Town of Nassau, Rensselaer County).
1996
Received the Stewart Park and Reserve Coalition's Snapping Turtle Award. The award is a cherry wood plaque with a casting of a snapping turtle shell, and an engraved inscription that reads "In Appreciation of a Trained Mind, A Keen Eye, and an Ability to Stick Ones Neck Out for the Environment When Necessary".
Selected by the Public Employees Federation to do a radio ad designed to help reverse the layoff of DEC employees. It was aired on five Capital District Stations.
Elected an Honorary Animal Control Officer in the Capitol District Animal Control Officer Association.
Given the New York State Humane Association, Inc. 1996 Wildlife Rehabilitator Award "For His Outstanding Commitment and Dedication to the Rescue, Rehabilitation, and Protection of Wildlife".
1994
Received a "Community Service Award", in recognition of work leading to the closure of the ANSWERS Incinerator, Albany, NY. Presented by Sheridan Hollow Neighborhood Association, Albany, NY.
Received a "Certificate of Merit", for "Extraordinary Work on the Environment". Presented by the Arbor Hill Concerned Citizens Neighborhood Association.
Received an award for "Appreciation for Outstanding Achievement for Tireless Efforts to Protect the Environment and Closure of the ANSWERS Incinerator, Albany, NY". Presented by Sierra Club, Hudson Mohawk Group.
Received an award for "Tireless Efforts in Protecting the People and Natural Environment in New York State". Presented by the New York Public Interest Research Group (NYPIRG) Board of Directors, 3/19/94.
I was given an award (a painting of a peregrine falcon by Glen Tracy) for "Research in Toxics and Diagnosis of Diseases in Raptors" by the Hudson
Valley Raptor Center, Incorporated. This is a not-for-profit organization that cares for injured raptors and breeds them to reintroduce the young to the wild.
A Sierra Club Award of Appreciation (11/10/94) "for years of speaking the truth about environmental pollution in New York State and for invaluable assistance in securing the closure of the polluting ANSWERS incinerator", presented by Roger Gray.
1992
Received the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution Conservation Medal on 9/24/92 at Albany, New York for Environmental Protection, Conservation, and Public Health.
1991
Received the "Excellence in Non-Human Effects Research Award" from the National Coalition Against the Misuse of Pesticides (NCAMP) for "Superb Scientific Efforts, Documenting the Damage and Mortality of Wildlife Resulting from Pesticide Use and Commitment to Working with Citizen Groups".
Keynote Speaker for the Rochester Academy of Science Annual Meeting on 11/2/91, at Hobart and William Smith College. In addition, elected by the Board of Directors of the Rochester Academy of Science as an Honorary Member.
Received a Native American carving of a bear, turtle and Indian warrior at the Labor and Environment Conference in Albany (11/24/91) for investigating the environmental threat of hazardous waste and construction debris sites to the environment.
1990
I received a painting, a symbolic interpretation of a turtle by Mohawk Artist Brad Bonaparte, from The North Country Environmental Awareness Organization Group.
The Catskill Greens held a dinner party for me in Woodstock, Ulster County. Congressman Maurice Hinchey, then a State Assemblyperson, was keynote speaker.
From the Onondaga Nation, I received a ribbon shirt and a carved bone necklace for cooperative work done with the Onondaga Nation on identifying and remediating pollution on their lands. This presentation was made by Chief Irving Powless.
I was honored by giving a Paul B. Zuber Urban and Environmental Seminar Series Lecture at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.
Received from Western New York Reach an "Honors Award with Special Recognition for All Contributions Made to Environmental Groups".
1989
Given a plaque by The New York State Conservation Council (Region IV) for "Dedication and Support of our Natural Resources Through Environmental Protection".
I received an award from The People United for Environmental Justice (Arlington, Virginia) "In Recognition of Outstanding Achievements and Dedication to Advancing the Cause of Environmental Justice".
A public rally was held on my behalf on the steps of the Capitol in Albany, New York in June to restore funding to the Wildlife Pathology Unit. Several hundred people attended, including representatives from the Mohawk Nation, NYPIRG, Sierra Club, and Public Employees Federation.
I received an award from The Toxics in Your Community Coalition for "Work to Cleanup Our Environment and Helping the Citizens in New York State".
The seventh issue of The Glens Falls Review (a literary magazine) was dedicated to my work, and I was honored to be a featured speaker at the opening of a new wing of the Hyde Museum at Glens Falls, New York.
A six foot long beaded ceremonial belt was presented to me, as a commendation by Chief Jake Swamp, on behalf of The Mohawk Nation for "Efforts to Control Pollution in the Grasse, Raquette, and St. Lawrence Rivers".
1988
Received the United States Environmental Protection Agency's Region II's Environmental Quality Award for State Government for "Extensive Research to Determine the Effects of Various Chemicals on Wildlife".
I was given a New York State Humane Association Special Award "In Appreciation of Many Years of Service to New York State Wildlife".
1987
Named "Conservationist of the Year" by The Pennsylvania Raptor and Wildlife Association. This honor was "In Recognition of Tireless and Outstanding Efforts in the Field of Wildlife Toxicology and Conservation'~.
1986
A plaque was awarded for "Work on Toxics in Wildlife" by The Toxics in Your Community Coalition.
Received the Fulton County Citizens Advisory Committee award for "Toxicant Investigations Done on Fulton County Hazardous Waste Sites".
I had the honor of giving the Second Annual Lawrence P. Verbit Memorial Lectures at the Chemistry Department of the State University of New York at Binghamton. One lecture was to scientists and the other a popular lecture open to the public.
1985
"The River Saver Award" (a bronze medal) was presented by The Save the River Environmental Organization on the St. Lawrence River for "Research on Toxics in the St. Lawrence River and It's Wildlife". Attorney General Robert Abrams was the keynote speaker. The noted 1960's activist Abbie Hoffman was also a speaker and he had been instrumental in starting the Save the River Organization.
The Mohawk Nation presented me with a friendship ring for "Cooperative Investigations of Pollution Problems on Mohawk Lands Near Massena, New York.
"The Outstanding Scientific Paper on Wildlife Award" for a paper given on the movement of PCBs from a hazardous waste site through the wildlife foodchain was received from The Northeast Section of Wildlife Society, (co-authors, Mark Watson and Joseph Okoniewski).
1984
Received the "Oak Leaf Award" from The Eastern New York Chapter of The Nature Conservancy for "Research on Environmental Pollutants".
Received the "New York State Outdoor Education Association's Award" for Research on Environmental Problems in New York.
1983
Named "Conservationist of The Year" by The Albany County Audubon Society.
Awarded a plaque by The New York State Public Employee's Federation "In Recognition of Dedicated Professional Services Consistently Performed Above and Beyond the Normal Commitment to the Public".
1980
I received a plaque and luncheon for "Outstanding Contributions to Conservation Law Enforcement and Dedication to the Conservation Officers", Presented by the New York State Environmental Conservation Officers.
1977
I received an award from The Hudson River Fishermen's Association for "Research on PCBs in Wildlife".
1976
The Fur Takers of America gave me "The Writer of Written on Furbearer Management and Diseases".
I gave a statement on the environment to the Democratic Presidential Platform Committee in Denver - Colorado on May l, 1976
1975
I received "The President's Award" from The National Trapper's Association and "The Trapper Conservationist Award" from the same organization. These awards were given for "Contributions to Furbearer Management and Research on Furbearer Diseases".
I represented the NYSDEC as one of four participants in a debate on hunting, pro or con; held at SUNY Buffalo on 2/14/75. The two hour debate was broadcast over the Public Service Radio Station WBFO and was covered by many other public service stations. My partner on the pro-hunting side was John Ailes of the National Riffle Association, and our opponents were the writer Cleveland Amory and William Grosscup, a Detroit television host.
Prior Years
Undergraduate National Science Foundation Fellowship for studying the survival of Toxoplasma in water and a graduate National Wildlife Federation Fellowship for "the Study of the Diseases and Parasites of Waterfowl".
Elected to Delta Sigma Rho National Debate Honorary. Won "Best Negative Speaker" at the Daniel Webster Debate Tournament (18 colleges and universities) at LeMoyne College (Syracuse, N.Y.).
Honor-Man of my class at Hospital Corps School (U.S. Navy). Received a "U.S. Navy Captain's Commendation" for post-mortem work done on U.S. Navy Airmen killed in an anti-submarine patrol aircraft crash near Key West, Florida.
ADVISORY POSITIONS TO ORGANIZATIONS
- Advisory Committee of Hudson Valley Community College, Biology Department's Environmental Studies Program, January 1995 through the present.
- Board Member of Five Rivers, Ltd, a citizens organization that aids the Five Rivers Environmental Center of The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation at Delmar, NY. 1976-1981.
- Advisory Committee of Cayuga Nature Center, 1420 Tamahonnock Blvd., Ithaca, N.Y. 14850. (1991-Present)
- Advisory Committee of The Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Network (WREN). (1990-Present).
- Advisory Committee of The Rachael Carson Council, Inc. An Association for the Integrity of the Environment. 8940 Jones Mill Road, Chevy Chase, MD 20815. (1990-1995).
- Scientific advisory to The New York Coalition Against The Misuse of Pesticides (NYCAMP). (1990-1995).
- I am a member of the Inter-Departmental Rabies Committee, which is made up of personnel from the Departments of Agriculture and Markets, Health, Parks and Recreation, and Environmental Conservation as well as representatives from the private sector (1993-Present).
