By Hayleigh Gowans
Staff Writer
Despite vetoing similar legislation two times in the past, Governor Andrew Cuomo has signed legislation that puts a moratorium on the New York State Department of Conservation’s plans to declare mute swans an invasive species and eradicate the waterfowl from the state by 2025.
On Nov. 29, Cuomo signed the bill (S6630/A9289) proposed by State Senator Tony Avella and Assemblyman Steven Cymbrowitz that would put a two year moratorium on the DEC’s plans to eradicate the mute swan species by 2025 and requires the DEC to hold two public hearings prior to finalizing their plans. The DEC would also have to provide scientific evidence for the projected environmental damage caused by the birds, and if they are able to provide this evidence, the law requires that DEC seek alternatives to euthanasia.
This is good news for Manny and Faye, the mute swan pair that resides in the Manlius Swan Pond. Currently, the village of Manlius holds a special invasive species permit to keep and breed the swans under certain stipulations, including that all swans are kept confined to the pond and plans are made to move cygnets out of the state after they reach the age where they are typically taken from their parent’s care to make room for the next group of cygnets.
According to a representative from the Department of Conservation, this ruling does not change the classification of mute swans as an invasive species by the DEC.
Faye carries a recessive genetic trait that is passed down to her cygnets that gives some white bills, white feet and blue eyes rather than the usual black feet, black-and-orange bills and brown eyes, which makes her a desirable swan to breed.
According to Mike Bean, the donor and caretaker of the Manlius swans, this means the DEC will likely notify the village their special permit is no longer valid, and the permit will revert to the Gamebird Breeder’s License, which Manlius has a valid one until 2017. Bean said this is ruling is positive for the village because rather than having to move the cygnets out of the state after they are removed from the pond, they can stay locally.
Manlius Mayor Paul Whorrall said he has already been contacted by the DEC, and will soon meet with a representative to discuss future permits and licenses.
“There will always be concerns that this issue could surface again and be reactivated, but the Village of Manlius Board and I feel confident that our swans are in a controlled environment that will not lead to any harm for anyone or anything,” said Whorrall. “The village board will continue to do what we feel is right to protect the beauty and attraction of our 100 year old landmark.”