Whereas the current population of non-migratory, resident Canada geese branta canadensis moffitti are not native to this area and are increasing in numbers each year to an estimated 9,000 to 11,000 according to recent bird counts; And whereas non-migratory, resident Canada geese are an ongoing destructive element to agriculture through the disruption of growing fields, the consumption of crops, and the risks posed by avian influenza and E. coli contamination, presenting risks to food security and the broader environment: Therefore be it resolved that UBCM work with provincial agencies such as the Ministry of Environment in concert with Canada Wildlife Services to undertake effective action to protect agriculture and the environment including establishing a goose cull program to deal with non-migratory resident Canada geese populations.
Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship Canada Geese in British Columbia are protected under both the federal Migratory Birds Convention Act and the provincial Wildlife Act. This highly adaptable waterfowl species was once primarily a migrant and summer visitor to the province but has experienced increases in resident populations over recent decades. In some cases, local Canada Goose populations come into conflict with human activities and interests and require specific management actions to address the issues. The response to any Canada Goose conflict is dependent upon the specifics of the particular situation, and goose control prescriptions can range from non-lethal approaches like landscape modifications and hazing, to relocations and lethal removals. Resolving Canada Goose conflicts can require long-term commitments to achieve and maintain acceptable population levels, and it is recommended that for areas with recurring conflicts, a management plan be developed to support and guide control prescriptions. For local Canada Goose conflicts, the Ministry can work with the UBCM, the federal government, First Nations, and others, to review and manage issues with Canada Geese, including supporting the development of integrated management plans documents where warranted.