Wednesday, May 18, 2011

Game and Fish Commission fines Arizona winter resident for killing heron

PHOENIX - The Arizona Game and Fish Commission recently assessed civil fines and penalties to a Bullhead City man for killing a great blue heron on Dec. 3, 2010 at the Riverview Resort Golf Course.

Edward C. Jess killed the bird with a golf club as it landed at the edge of a pond adjacent to the golf course. Jess stated that he was upset that the heron was eating the fish in the pond.

The Commission revoked Jess' license privileges to hunt, fish or trap in Arizona for 5 years and ordered civil damages of $250 to be paid.

Jess was previously found guilty in Bullhead City Justice Court of both taking a protected species during a closed season and cruelty to animals. He was fined $480 for striking and killing the heron with a golf club.

Great blue herons are federally protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.


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The Arizona Game and Fish Department prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, age, or disability in its programs and activities. If anyone believes that they have been discriminated against in any of the AGFD's programs or activities, including employment practices, they may file a complaint with the Deputy Director, 5000 W. Carefree Highway, Phoenix, AZ 85086-5000, (602) 942-3000, or with the Fish and Wildlife Service, 4040 N. Fairfax Dr. Ste. 130, Arlington, VA 22203. Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation or this document in an alternative format by contacting the Deputy Director as listed above.