[mou] [SPAM-SAV] $$ for owls

[metterso@d.umn.edu]

This email is sure to raise some hackles, so please let me preface by stating 
that I believe contributions to the raptor center for treatment of injured 
owls is a humane and worthy cause.

However, the figures bear a closer look.  If we round the 'over 90 owls' 
treated at TRC to 100 owls and multiply by $1,500/owl, we get $150,000.00.  
That's alot of $$ and anyone can perceive why TRC would be desperate for 
help.  

BUT, if our goal is to help owls, would it not be better to invest that money 
in conservation of owl habitat?  hunter education to prevent people from 
shooting owls?, or research into owl life-history and demography?

Of course, none of those ideas do anything to resolve The Raptor Center's 
immediate need.

Matt Etterson
Duluth