Why is steel shot primarily used in waterfowl hunting in Kansas today?

Steel shot is primarily used in waterfowl hunting today because it does not pose a poisoning risk to ducks and geese. This regulation was put in place due to environmental concerns, as lead shot has been found to be hazardous to wildlife. When waterfowl ingest lead pellets, it can lead to lead poisoning, which is detrimental not only to the individual birds but also to the larger ecosystem. Switching to steel shot significantly reduces this risk, allowing for hunting practices that are safer for both the game and the environment.

While affordability, ease of retrieval, and accuracy play roles in ammunition selection, the primary reason for the widespread use of steel shot is its non-toxic nature, which aligns with wildlife conservation efforts and regulations that aim to protect waterfowl populations.