What’s the Big Deal with Geese?
Canadian geese might look picturesque gliding across the water, but they can create big headaches for lakefront communities. From droppings on docks to aggressive behavior during nesting season, these feathered residents can turn a peaceful day by the water into a messy nuisance.
Common Goose Myths – Busted
🪶 Myth “It’s illegal to do anything about them.”
Truth: While protected under federal law, non-lethal control methods are allowed and often encouraged—especially when done as part of habitat management.
🪶 Myth “They’ll leave on their own eventually.”
Truth: If conditions stay comfy, they’ll stay loyal—and invite friends.
Why It Matters
- Each goose poops up to 2–4 pounds per day 😬
- Waste piles up on lawns, docks, and beaches—not usually in the water
- Rain washes droppings into the lake, increasing E. coli and algae risk
- The same goes for pet waste, so clean-up matters for all critters
- Nesting geese may act aggressively toward pets or people
What Can Homeowners Do?
✅ Don’t Feed Them!
Feeding geese makes them dependent and encourages them to stay.
🌾 Landscape with Purpose
Replace open lawns near the water with tall grasses, shrubs, or native plants to create a natural barrier. Geese prefer wide, clear access to the shore—break that line, and they move on.
🧹 Clean Up Waste
Goose droppings left on lawns, walkways, and docks don’t just look bad—they wash into the lake during rainstorms and contribute to E. coli and algae growth. The same goes for pet waste. Bagging and disposing of it properly helps protect water quality.
🔊 Use Safe Deterrents
Reflective tape, fake predators (like owls or coyotes), motion-activated lights, and even beach balls or pinwheels can make a difference. Stretching string 6-12 inches above the ground—especially across open lawn or beach areas—can also help discourage geese from landing or walking up from the water. Whatever method you use, be sure to change things up every few weeks to keep the geese guessing.
Small Steps, Big Difference
When each homeowner does a little, the entire shoreline benefits. Cleaner lawns mean a cleaner lake, healthier swimming, and a better experience for everyone in the community.