We, the undersigned, representing an international community of concerned citizens, stand opposed to the planned cull of the Arapawa goats. We feel that other actions that would spare the goat herd should be studied and or utilized. Actions such as using the feral goat herd as an eco-historic tourism mechanism to draw in visitors, or maintaining the goat herd for future agricultural/animal husbandry issues should be reviewed and studied. To simply hunt and kill the goats could be viewed as shortsighted by future generations when present day species (both domesticated and feral) are in decline globally. Remember the Tasmanian Tiger, the passenger pigeon and other extinct species. Do not add to the list. Our ancestors viewed the American bison to be a blight on the land and eagles were thought of as vermin. Don't make the same mistakes. Please, killing is forever, extinction is forever. Please be careful, err on the side of caution and spare the goats- you never know - their genetic uniqueness might benefit humanity in the future. Once something is gone, it is gone forever. Let us all try to maintain the richness of life! Please spare the goats. Remember, we do care!Thank you, I have faith you will be humane and just in your decision.With Respect,Patricia Van Alstyne
