To the extent that there is increased mortality from lead poisoning in heavily-shot marshes, the increased wounding of game from the use of steel shot probably offsets the intended gains from using steel. The problem could have been solved easily if we had designated "Waterfowl Loads" which were lead, but had an excise tax equal to the increased cost of steel vs. lead put on those shells which would be used for the purchase and maintenance of breeding marshes. We all know that the ultimate reduction in huntable populations of all game is caused by the loss of habitat