SAULT STE. MARIE – Having successfully solved our city's opioid crisis, cleared the streets of potholes and delighted us with their approach to downtown parking, Sault Ste. Marie City Council will be asked next week to take on another threat to our existence.
Coun. Angela Caputo wants the city to introduce a goose management program.
In a resolution to be presented to Monday night's council meeting, Caputo and fellow Ward 3 gosling Ron Zagordo warn that gaggles of aggressive geese are pooping prolifically all over our parks, lawns, footpaths, docks and beaches, spreading parasites and bacteria.
Here's the full text of their honking resolution:
Goose management proposal
Whereas it is important to maintain a healthy balance of wildlife and people in our community; and
Whereas according to Environment Canada temperate-breeding Canada geese can damage grass, plants, parks, crops, and other green spaces, while goose droppings foul footpaths, docks, beaches, lawns, parks and contribute to contamination of nearby water with parasites and coliform bacteria; and
Whereas both geese with nests or young are known to be aggressive toward humans and pets; and
Whereas geese are particularly attracted to grass near water, which leads to conflict between humans and geese at places like the boardwalk, Bellevue Park, Clergue Park and many other main city attractions; and
Whereas these attractions have been put in place for the use of citizens and to encourage tourism to our city, but the presence of geese and goose droppings deters people from being able to utilize these areas to their full potential; and
Whereas municipalities such as Orillia, Barrie, Simcoe, and Ramara have successfully implemented goose management plans;
Now therefore be it resolved that staff be requested to report back to council regarding the cost and feasibility of a goose management plan in Sault Ste. Marie;
Further be it resolved that the report include the current amount being spent to manage geese, including clean-up, and any current tactics being used to curb goose and human interaction
Monday's city council meeting will be live-streamed on SooToday starting at 5 p.m.