There is no easy solution to the goose problem here, council has discovered.

Council is seeking a solution to keep about 50 geese off the beach and playing fields at Memorial Park, but more research on proper methods may be warranted, says Deputy Reeve Brian Treanor.

“We need to research what hoops we have to jump through,” said Treanor during council’s Tuesday meeting.

Council reviewed a recommendation from the recreation committee suggesting a combination of dogs, oiling eggs and a local farmer’s noise unit to help combat the bird problem.

In order to oil the eggs, however, staff must first find the nests. If the nests are on an island or on private property, there will be issues, council concluded.

Coun. Jim Flieler said it may take several attempts and methods to deter the birds.

“You have to be really aggressive. One thing alone doesn’t work. Once they find a way to get by what you’ve done, they go.”

The City of Hamiliton, he added, has been dealing with about 2,000 geese, and after a few years of oiling eggs and trying several different techniques to deter the birds from public parks and other areas, the city is just now beginning to see results.

One method that has worked in the past — a fence the municipality puts up in the swimming area — can’t be erected yet because of high water levels. Once the water recedes, the fence will be installed, said Clerk Patricia Bergeron.

Bergeron said staff has been directed to further investigate the issue.

via Geese a headache for Tweed – Community Press – Ontario, CA.