SC town to vote on bird feeding ban

SURFSIDE BEACH, S.C. -- Surfside Beach officials say ducks, geese and other birds are turning the town's lakes into their own personal toilets and are jeopardizing water quality. The Sun News of Myrtle Beach reports that the town is expected to vote Tuesday on a ban prohibiting people from feeding the birds. Authorities hope the ban will discourage the birds from hanging around. Town administrator Ed Booth says the birds are polluting waterways, some of which feed directly into the ocean. Last year, Horry County enacted a similar ban that included a fine of up to $200 and 30 days in jail for violators. (Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)