As Anchorage Geese Increase, So Do Problems

You are viewing ARCHIVED content published online before January 20, 2025. Please note that this content is NOT UPDATED, and links may not work. Additionally, any previously issued diversity, equity, inclusion or gender-related guidance on this webpage should be considered rescinded. For current information, visit our newsroom.
Press Release
As Anchorage Geese Increase, So Do Problems

Public Workshops Set to Find Solutions

To learn about Anchorages skyrocketing goose population, the problems it is causing and what can be done, the public is invited to a series of workshops this month. Members of the Anchorage Waterfowl Working Group will be on hand to explain the situation, and answer questions.

  • When: Friday and Saturday, January 17-18 and January 24-25.
      • Friday sessions will be 12:00 noon to 6:00 p.m.
        Saturday Sessions will be 10:00a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

    Where: Loussac Library, (third floor), Anchorage

The Alaska Department of Fish and Game reports the nesting Canada goose population has grown exponentially from almost none to about 4,000 over the past 20 years. If the population continues to grow at the present rate, there could be 15,000 geese in Anchorage 10 years from now.

Following the fatal collision of a U.S. Air Force plane with a flock of geese in September 1995, the Waterfowl Group was formed. It includes representatives from both military bases, the municipality, local airports, conservation groups, Fish and Game, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the U.S Department of Agriculture Animal Damage Control.

The groups goal is to develop and implement an acceptable goose management plan. The group has produced a 25-page report detailing the goose population growth and the problems it has caused. "Although most Anchorage residents and their visitors enjoy the geese, the increased numbers continue to cause safety problems and nuisances for some property owners and athletes," said Karen Laing, a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service biologist and member of the working group.

Copies of the report will be available January 17-29, at the Loussac Library along with an informative display and fact sheets. The public is encouraged to complete an opinion survey which will help the group draft its management plan.

Biologists believe the primary reason goose numbers continue to climb is that Anchorage offers a nesting paradise of lakes and mowed lawns. The lakes provide places to escape dogs and humans. Geese thrive on freshly mowed grass. "Fertilized lawns add nutrients which increase the protein and carbohydrate content," said Laing. "The result is perfect food for geese."

FWS

Press Release

Published

Latest Press Releases