Services

Lead Tackle Exchange Program

The Franklin County Soil and Water Conservation District is taking the lead in a Fishing Tackle Exchange Program in partnership with Somerset County SWCD. Anglers within Franklin County's borders can clean the toxic tackle out of their boxes and get replacement non-toxic tackle for free! Supplies are limited.

When sinkers and jigs are lost by anglers, these items settle on the bottom of the lake, where they do not dissolve. Loons and other water birds forage the bottom of lakes for gravel. This gravel or "grit," enables their gizzards to break down fish bones. Lead sinkers and jig heads are ingested when they are mistaken by the birds for the grit they require. Birds may also ingest lead when feeding on fish attached to lead fishing gear. As the lead sinker or jig is exposed to the pebbles in the gizzard and acids of the stomach, lead enters the bird's system and slowly poisons the bird. The good news is that tragedies like this can be prevented. There are many non-toxic alternatives to lead fishing tackle, including those made of natural rocks, tin, steel, bismuth, ceramic and more. Many retail stores carry these alternatives and still more would be carried if the public demand for these products increased.