Foster City Moves Ahead with Canada Goose Depredation Plan

For immediate release: July 19, 2022

Contact: City Manager's Office, (650) 286-3220, manager@fostercity.org

As part of the effort to address the potential health hazards and quality of life concerns posed by the overabundant waterfowl population, the City Council agreed to move ahead with the Canada Goose depredation plan. The decision during the City Council meeting on Monday, July 18, allows Foster City staff to apply for permits which could authorize the lethal removal of up to 100 geese.

The decision comes as the Council works to address the potential health hazards posed by the growing Canada Goose population, which has resulted in deteriorating Lagoon water quality and other sanitation concerns in Foster City’s parks and open spaces. Water quality testing has shown the elevated bacteria levels present in the Lagoon links directly to the local waterfowl population.

As the City advances through the process of acquiring depredation permits, it should be noted that any lethal option would only be exercised selectively and in conjunction with a wide variety of nonlethal alternatives. Foster City is steadfastly committed to continuing to use nonlethal deterrents such as hazing and egg addling in the effort to control the Canada Goose population and is exploring a variety of innovative solutions and landscape modification opportunities that could help address the issue as well.

With an obligation to protect public health and offer a safe and sanitary experience for visitors to local parks and waterways, the City is prepared to move thoughtfully and deliberately through the next steps in the depredation process. Residents with thoughts to share on this issue are encouraged to email geese@fostercity.org or visit https://www.fostercity.org/community/page/canada-goose-population-management for more information.

###