It is the intent of this article to protect
the health, safety and welfare of the community and its wildlife by
prohibiting the feeding of waterfowl and migratory birds within Village
parks. Feeding the waterfowl increases the potential for damage to
public parks, may cause water quality problems and may increase the
potential for the spread of disease to residents. In addition, it
is the intent of this article to protect the welfare of the waterfowl
and migratory birds themselves, since wildlife studies have shown
that the feeding of waterfowl and migratory birds can interrupt their
normal migration patterns, cause nutritional problems, and promote
the spread of serious waterfowl/migratory bird diseases such as avian
cholera, plague and botulism.
As used in this article, the following terms
shall have the meanings indicated:
To place, deposit, scatter or distribute in a location accessible
to waterfowl/migratory birds any type of food, including but not limited
to corn, wheat or other grains, bread, popcorn, scraps or any substance
liable to be eaten by the waterfowl/migratory birds.
Waterfowl, whether migratory or not, including but not limited
to Canada geese and mallard ducks.
No person shall feed or provide food for any
waterfowl or migratory birds at any time during the year in the Village
parks.
Any person violating any of the provisions of
this article shall, upon conviction, be punishable by a fine of not
more than $250 or by imprisonment for not more than 15 days, or both.
The provisions of this article shall be administered
and enforced by the members of the Fishkill Village police and/or
the Animal Control Officer who shall have the power to issue appearance
tickets.
