Management of Nuisance Geese on School Properties and Public Spaces

Abstract

Conflicts with Canada geese (Branta canadensis) (Linnaeus, 1758, Anseriformes, Anatidae) have increased during the past three decades. Goose conflicts included feces on turf areas and paved surfaces, slippage on athletic fields and playing surfaces, overgrazing of turfgrass, and noise or aggression near nesting sites. Geese also negatively impacted community relations putting stakeholders at odds with each other. Geese using school grounds, local parks, golf courses, and other public properties require site-specific management approaches because these birds often use several properties, and effective management necessitates a community-wide approach. Our case study illustrated that management options to reduce goose conflicts must be customized to the resources and time that staff managing school grounds have available, and there is no one approach that will work in most situations.