From "The Probe"
- (Reprinted with permission of the Urban Wildlife Working Group of The Wildlife Society)
GOOSE SCHOOL
Larry Sullivan, Editor, The Probe
I had the distinct pleasure of attending the first National Goose Management Training Academy in Indianapolis, Indiana, on June 8 & 9, 2002. The training program was created and conducted by National Goose Management Company, a partnership of Tim Julien, A&T Wildlife Management of Indiana and Kirk La Pierre, A1 Saver Wildlife Management of New Jersey.
Fifty-five students representing 22 states and Canada, along with 8 staff, spent two information packed days in the classroom and in the field earning their CGMP (Certified Goose Management Professional) credentials.
The concentrated and comprehensive course focused on an integrated approach to the management of urban, resident Canada geese. Before attending this course, I expected it to be pretty much focused on "goose roundups." However, the course presented a truly integrated approach to addressing human-goose conflict in urban and suburban environments. Numerous hazing techniques were covered, including a presentation by Migratory Bird Management Goose Control Specialists on the use of border collies. In addition, a wide variety of management tools and strategies were described and demonstrated including habitat modification, pyrotechnics, bio-sonics, visual deterrents, lasers, egg addling, physical and electric barriers, chemical repellents, cannon nets, radio controlled boats, and more. As I mentioned, these tools and techniques were not just simply described - they were also actually demonstrated in the field.
Of course goose roundups were covered - completely covered. Subjects ranged from how to conduct a roundup, to the legal requirements and permits necessary before and after a roundup, to handling and transporting geese (including the construction of goose trailers), to the variety of the necessary tools and equipment required, to evaluating a roundup site and developing a strategy. And best of all, we actually participated in two goose roundups. No textbook or lecture can substitute for actual field experience. Just one example, a few students, myself included, ended up with some minor lacerations learning that you should wear a long-sleeved shirt and gloves when handling geese - this was absolutely "hands-on" learning.
The business aspects of commercial goose management were covered in detail. Included were sessions on marketing, proposals, and contracts. Although Kirk and Tim did most of the teaching, several guest speakers including representatives from USDA Wildlife Services, the Indiana DNR, Flight-Control, and Sea-Tech made additional presentations. Tim Julien Jr., A third-year veterinary student gave a very informative presentation on Canada goose biology.
There was a $25 discount for members of the National Wildlife Control Operators Association (NWCOA) and for non-members, their first year NWCOA dues were paid from the course fee. A total of 16 credits toward NWCOA's Certified Wildlife Control Professional Program. Professional Goose Management Certification certificates were awarded to all participants.
A post-academy survey indicated that participants felt that this course was definitely a valuable learning experience. Suggestions for future courses included extending the course to three days and increasing the actual roundup experience at more sites and with fewer participants at each site.
Plans are underway for the 2003 academy, which will take place in June, in Indianapolis. Those interested in attending may get further information from Kirk at, kirk.lapierre@verizon.net or from Tim at, tjulien@iquest.net. Information on the academy, as well as a variety of goose management supplies and services, can be found online at www.goosecontrolsupplies.com.
I highly recommend this course to anyone interested in resident Canada goose management from a commercial standpoint or from a wildlife resource management standpoint. I have spent almost 30 years as a Cooperative Extension educator and have organized and conducted more workshops, short-course, field exercises, and other forms of educational programs than I could ever possibly count and I must say that I was impressed with the amount of information and hands-on experience -- and fun -- this course packed into two days. And after all that, I was still ready to go out on a few more roundups.
