News from New York State Department of Environmental Conservation

For more information contact: Wendy Rosenbach, 845-256-3018

DEC to Hold Workshops in the Hudson Valley on Resident Canada Geese

Forums Will Discuss Potential Ways to Address Emerging Issues

ALBANY, NY (10/30/2007; 1332)(readMedia)-- As populations of resident Canada Geese have increased in recent years, their presence on ball fields, golf courses, parks, beaches and waterfronts has become an increasing source of concern. To address this issue, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) announces the following workshops for Resolving Canada Geese Conflicts in the Hudson Valley:

Thursday, November 15, 2007, 1pm to 4 pm, Bear Mountain State Park Cliff House, Bear Mountain, Rockland County

Friday, November 16, 2007 9am to noon, Norrie Point Environmental Center, Staatsburg, Dutchess County

These workshops will include information on the natural history of Canada Geese, state and federal regulations, examples of successful programs, methods for egg oiling, geese exclusion and site aversion, and how to work in a collaborative effort to control resident geese. The workshops will help participants prepare for the spring of 2008.

There has been a sharp rise in resident goose population in urban and suburban areas throughout New York because of several factors, including abundant lakes and ponds, expanses of short grass, lack of natural predators, limited hunting and supplemental feeding. Some problems develop as local flocks grow, such as over-grazed lawns, accumulations of droppings and feathers on play areas and walkways, nutrient loading to ponds, public health concerns at beaches and drinking water supplies, aggressive behavior by nesting birds, and safety hazards near roads and airports.

Area-wide programs, with different community organizations and agencies sharing resources, are generally effective and economical. These workshops will be beneficial to property and park managers, school grounds and recreational facility managers, lake associations, golf courses, waterfront property owners or managers, municipal and community leaders, environmental and resource conservation managers, airport managers and public health managers.

Speakers will include representatives from the U. S. Department of Agriculture’s Wildlife Services, the DEC Wildlife Bureau and the non-profit organization GeesePeace.

The workshops are free, but registration is required. To register, please contact Emilie Hauser eehauser@gw.dec.state.ny.us or (845)-889-4745 x 112.

Information on managing nuisance Canada Geese can also be found by visiting the NYSDEC website: www.dec.ny.gov/animals/7003.html

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