Gravenhurst eyes geese problem

Councilors were told "as long as you have water and grass, you'll have geese"

Geese population management is in the works for the Town of Gravenhurst.

Council was presented with an overview about what the program will look like by Michael von Kaitz, of the Wildlife Management Corporation, in the April 15, 2025, meeting.

Kaitz advised that they respond to the biological and behavioural characteristics of geese. And because they are a protected species with Environmental Canada they must comply with applicable regulations.

He said the Town has three times more residential species than migratory, which means they stick around for 12 months of the year, and nest in parks and related areas.

The concern is that their adaptation to human environments can result in aggressive nesting pairs, and droppings that can cause health issues for residents because of the exposure to E.coli bacteria or avian flu.

Kaitz said the program focuses on safe and healthy wildlife management which reduces the risks by striking a balance between resident and geese populations, rather than a complete elimination of the birds.

Steps include an initial assessment, implementation of a plan, monitoring progress, and making changes as needed.

Tools they use to deter them from being around include seagull sounds, laser lights for night control which causes them to see an ultraviolet spectrum, and silk fencing. Kaitz added that removal of geese families is only conducted as a last resort and require a permit from Environment Canada.

He added that their tools “are proven across Ontario with 90% reduction of issues at parks.”

Mayor, Heidi Lorenz, said they have a problem with geese at the park. She added, “I’m glad it will be addressed humanely.”

Council members also touched on issues such as pollution at the park and having to cancel swimming lessons as a result, having tried tools like laser lights and fences with success in the past, and the potential of planting more vegetation to deter them.

Kaitz advised that the silk fencing will allow shrubs to grow behind them, and recommended planting native plants that will grow thick and fast.

Councillor, Erin Strength, inquired about whether the wildlife services will be for one season or ongoing for years.

Kaitz advised that it’s a “management program,” and the Town is currently in a pilot phase for data gathering so they can see what worked and go from there. He added that Barrie was a pilot for 3 years and has been managed every year for 13 years.

“As long as you have water and grass, you’ll have geese,” he said.

Lorenz indicated that moving forward they can revisit discussions about the swimming lessons that were removed. She added, “I look forward to seeing what happens at year end and the water quality.”