The spring-loaded M-44 device, which is used to spray poison onto animals attracted to bait, is regarded by ranchers as an essential tool for predator control and by conservationists as a menace to people and wildlife. The EPA said on Thursday that it will allow the continued use of cyanide in the devices, although it will require that they be placed farther away from residences.
In an interim decision issued as it conducts a review of approved uses of sodium cyanide, the EPA issued new restrictions that include a 600-foot buffer around residences, unless a landowner gives written permission for closer placement; a 300-foot buffer between the devices and public paths and roads; and the posting of two warning signs within 15 feet of an M-44. Until now, just a 100-foot buffer between an M-44 and roads and paths was required, and only one sign, within 25 feet of the device, was needed.
The new restrictions “will reduce the potential for unintended impacts on humans, pets, and other non-target animals,” said EPA assistant administrator Alexandra Dunn. Livestock groups thanked the EPA for continued access to M-44s. “Livestock producers face heavy losses from predators, amounting to more than $232 million in death losses annually,” said Benny Cox, president of the American Sheep Industry Association.
M-44s have killed eagles and other wildlife, livestock, and pet dogs, says High Country News. In 2017, a 14-year-old Idaho boy was injured and his dog was killed by one of the devices.