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Committee flags geese as sanitation issue at Veterans Park, asks staff to research management options
Summary
Members described goose droppings at park playgrounds and athletic fields as a public-health and maintenance problem; the board asked staff to explore options such as nuisance permits, contractor services, or trained dogs to deter geese.
Parks & Recreation Advisory Board members raised sanitation concerns at Veterans Park and other town fields, saying geese droppings are creating an unsanitary condition on playgrounds and athletic fields.
Members described the problem as widespread and noted prior conversations about options, including nuisance permits, contracted harassment or deterrent services, and the use of trained dogs. A committee member said some jurisdictions use permitted shooting under tight DEC control; others employ trained dogs or contracted handlers.
The committee asked staff to research management options, including what permits would be required, the availability and cost of contracted wildlife-deterrent services, and insurance implications. Staff noted that some vendors would not travel from distant regions and that the town would prefer a local contractor or an employee trained to manage deterrent dogs.
Ending: The committee directed staff to return with options, cost estimates and permit requirements so the board can consider next steps at a future meeting.
