Cedar Rapids city leaders may allow hunters to help combat a rampant goose population.
The city council has approved the first of three readings that would allow hunters to shoot geese in parts of Cedar Rapids’ southwest side. Joel Johnson, whose property would qualify for hunting under the amendment, told KCRG-TV the goose population grows bigger every year in the area.
“When they’re coming to set, you’ll see flocks of hundreds and hundreds of them,” Johnson said. He’s supporting the ordinance that would allow goose hunting. “Geese are not a scarce resource, so I think it’s a good thing,” Johnson said. “Everything need to be kept in check and this is one way to do it.” If hunting is allowed, Johnson believes it will only put a small dent in a big problem.
“It’s taking a teaspoon to the ocean,” Johnson said. In recent years, the city has invested time and money into scare tactics like a remote controlled device that chases the birds and lasers that frighten them into flight. The city spends up to $20,000 a year on cleaning up after and controlling geese.
Canada Geese were first brought to Cedar Rapids in the 1970s when they were an endangered species. Now, they’re an almost constant site in the city and, at times, a health hazard. The geese leave behind droppings everywhere and they’ve attacked bicyclists on trails.
Thanks to KCRG TV.