CR 95-67 Geese Control
April 14, 1995 ~ Council Report 95-067
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DISCUSSION OF GEESE CONTROL
Pro Dosed Action
This item is presented for discussion. The Council does not need to take any action at this time.
Overview
Over the years the City has received a number of complaints concerning geese. Last year the Knollwood
neighborhood was very concerned about geese. This year the City has received complaints from
Meadowbrook and a petition from homeowners who live near Shady Oak pond. Since the City does not have
either the expertise or resources for wildlife management, it has been unable to solve these problems.
There does seem to be a method that has had some success in other cities. The University of Minnesota's
Department of Fisheries and Wildlife will undertake to capture and relocate geese. The Minnesota Department
of Natural Resources (DNR) recommends this approach in areas that have too many geese and where hunting
is not allowed.
. I have attached a letter from Jon Parker, of the DNR, which explains the process of relocating geese. I have
been trying to talk to Dr. Cooper of the University of Minnesota's Department of Fisheries and Wildlife. As
of today, Dr. Cooper has not returned my calls. I hope to have some more information by Tuesday.
Primary Issues to Consider
. What is the purpose of this discussion?
The purpose of Tuesday's discussion will be to accept the petition from the Shady Oak neighborhood,
listen to comments from interested parties, and discuss the advisability of undertaking some kind of
geese control effort.
. How would the City fund a geese control effort?
There are no funds budgeted for such an activity. Homeowner associations pay for these efforts in the
city of Minnetonka. Should the City decide to fund this program the money would have to come from
the contingency fund.
SUDDortine Information
. Petition from the Shady Oak neighborhood
. Letter from Jon Parker, of the DNR
. Information sheet from the DNR on the control of Canada geese.
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J a~A. Genellie
.~?ty Clerk