Lawton, OK – The City of Lawton is once again grappling with how to manage the growing prairie dog population in Elmer Thomas Park, a popular green space in the area. In an effort to curb the numbers, city officials have begun laying poison bait, a method that has drawn criticism from animal welfare advocates who argue that it is inhumane.
This move follows a relocation effort in November, when approximately 150 prairie dogs were captured and moved to a different location. However, Larry Parks, the Director of Parks & Recreation, said that while relocation is one approach, the prairie dog population remains a persistent issue, requiring a more sustainable solution.
“Population control is something we deal with annually,” Parks explained. “Everything comes at a cost. The baiting comes at a cost, and when you relocate animals, there are other logistical issues that aren’t always considered.”
The decision to use poison bait, which is intended to reduce the prairie dog population by approximately 80%, has raised concerns among local animal rights organizations. Cynthia Armstrong, the Oklahoma Senior State Director for the Humane Society of the United States, expressed strong opposition to the method.
“Poisoning is very inhumane, and we don’t feel that’s necessary,” Armstrong said. “When we first presented our plan to the city, there were donors willing to assist with non-lethal alternatives. We could work with the city to address the costs and explore more humane methods.”
Armstrong has previously suggested several alternative solutions to managing the prairie dog population, including the creation of prairie dog-free zones within the park. These could be achieved using physical barriers, natural deterrents, or even visual barriers that are both humane and aesthetically pleasing, she argued.
