Public meeting set on blackbird control

SIKESTON -- The city of Sikeston, in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, will conduct an informational meeting on blackbird control and dispersal techniques at 7 p.m. Nov. 15 in the Clinton Community Building.

This meeting is the result of almost 18 months of research on blackbird migratory and roosting patterns in the Sikeston area.

During his Sept. 6 briefing for the Sikeston City Council, wildlife specialist Robert Byrd of the U.S.D.A. indicated that an estimated 5-6 million blackbirds migrated to Sikeston in 2004. These flocks are expected to return to Sikeston in the coming months. Large blackbird concentrations such as these not only pose health hazards to local residents, they negatively impact local agriculture.

In his remarks to the Council, Byrd said the key to effective bird dispersal programs are timing, organization and diversity. Success requires both government and private citizen involvement.

Residents are encouraged to attend the informational meeting. Trey Hardy, community redevelopment coordinator, is coordinating the city's participation in the program. He can be reached by calling Sikeston City Hall at 471-2186.