‘Additions’ to Jackson Lake cause panic

Saturday, July 12, 2008

By PJH Staff

JACKSON HOLE, Wyo. - A team of independent researchers has just been approved to move forward with plans to use Jackson Lake as the new home for a family of Bull sharks. Able to survive in salt and freshwater, the sharks will thrive in the biodiversity of Jackson Lake, according to lead researcher and scientist, Dr. Johanna Ligenberg.
The population of Bull sharks has seen a dramatic decline in the past five years and is now teetering on the edge of the endangered species list. Ligenberg and colleagues have been scouring the United States to find a body of water that could house the sharks without presenting any threats to their growth and survival.

“After making a $500,000 donation to Grand Teton National Park, we gained approval to house the magnificent and lovable sharks in Jackson Lake,” Ligenberg said.
Although the Bull shark has been known to attack humans, Ligenberg said as long as swimmers and boaters are not bleeding while in the water and don’t have any fresh wounds, the likelihood of a shark attack is minimal.

“We have been studying the Bull shark for the last 10 years. My colleagues and I have developed a strong affinity for these sharks, and although they do pose a threat to humans, their survival is imperative to the continuance of countless oceanic animals and organisms,” Ligenberg said.

But not everyone shares the same optimism about the sharks’ new home. “The sharks pose a serious danger to human and animal life. Visitors to the park should be able to enjoy the splendor of Jackson Lake without worrying about a shark attack.”
“The possibility of this even happening in the lake seems ludicrous, but also downright scary,” said Grand Teton National Park ranger Jennifer Togglehert, who ironically, survived a shark attack as a child while vacationing in Hawaii.

Despite continued apprehensions surfacing amongst concerned park officials and employees, Ligenberg and her team are scheduled to transport the sharks to Jackson Lake on Friday, August 1.

“We are truly excited for this new partnership with Grand Teton National Park and hope people will welcome these remarkable animals into their hearts just as we have,” Ligenberg said.

PERMALINK:
‘Additions’ to Jackson Lake cause panic | Planet JH News Article: General Worm Hole

Leave a Comment