WHEREAS, release of an exotic species, the axis deer (Axis axis), is again being considered by the Division of Fish and Game of the State of Hawaii; and
WHEREAS, the American Society of Mammalogists in convention in 1950 considered this identical question and unanimously recommended against release of said deer; and
WHEREAS, it has been abundantly proven that release of a large hoofed species into an oceanic island environment produces irreparable damage to unique ecosystems and is a potential for the spread of disease;
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the American Society of Mammalogists reaffirm their stand of 22 years ago, and most urgently recommend that axis deer and other hoofed species not be introduced upon the Island of Hawaii.