CCP 10-16-2006 - Laserfiche WebLink

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. ~ EN HILLS MEMORANDUM DATE: October 10, 2006 Agenda Item: 2D TO: Mayor and City Council Michelle Wolfe, City Administrator b Karen Barton, Community Development Directo~ FROM: SUBJECT: Goose Removal Discussion Backoround . Canada Geese in the Metro area have grown dramatically in numbers due to abundant habitat, long life span, high reproductive rates and low mortality from hunting and predation_ They dine on the short grasses in parks, lawns and golf courses, leaving behind unwanted evidence of their presence. Over the past several years, residents have complained about geese, as well as wild turkeys, deer, and even moles destroying vegetation, fouling the area, causing property damage and even becoming aggressive at times. Discussion There are a number of ways in which to deal with unwanted wildlife; geese in particular; none of which are 100% effective, always socially acceptable, or without cost. Hunting is the most effective method of population control. However, when proposing any type of hunting within a city's limits, there are a number of associated inherent risks. Most often, hunting is left as a last-resort type of solution. The DNR has a number of non-lethal management techniques including installing barrier fences, scare-tape (Le., a shiny ribbon of red and silver mylar), energized fences, hazing (chasing them from your property), and landscaping. There are also a number of companies that provide trapping and relocation services, usually at a significant cost. The City has, at times, been asked to assist in dealing with these wildlife nuisances. . Staff Reouest Staff is requesting guidance on setting City policy relating to control and or removal of nuisance wildlife.