Home › Resident Canada Goose Management

Resident Canada goose management

In shortResident Canada geese live in our region year-round, nest on ponds and stormwater basins, and foul turf, walkways and water. The lasting fix combines habitat changes, consistent early-season hazing and nest and egg control under the landowner’s free annual registration with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
Canada geese in flight
Canada geese in flight. Photo: USFWS Midwest Region, public domain.

Why do resident geese become a problem?

Short grass running to open water, few predators and mild winters make ponds, campuses and parks ideal. A few nesting pairs can become a flock of dozens within a few seasons.

What tools work?

Habitat changes and hazing

Shoreline buffers, mowing changes and an early, consistent hazing schedule.

Nest and egg control

Federally registered treatment of nests and eggs to stop flock growth.

Snow geese on farms

Migrating snow goose flocks on Delmarva and New Jersey winter crops.

Are Canada geese protected?

Yes. Canada geese are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Every step of a goose plan must fit within federal and state rules, and we never act without the landowner’s registration or permit in place. In New Jersey, farmers with goose damage can apply for a management permit through USDA Wildlife Services.

Who do we help?

Homeowner and business associations, corporate campuses and golf courses, municipal parks and basins and farms with geese grazing young crops.

Last updated October 18, 2026. Reviewed by DelChester Wildlife Conservation Group.

Frequently asked questions

How do I get rid of Canada geese on my pond?

Combine shoreline vegetation buffers, early and consistent hazing, and nest and egg control under a free annual U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service registration.

Is it legal to destroy goose eggs?

Only for resident Canada geese, and only under the landowner’s annual federal registration, with a report filed afterward.

Put our team to work on your land

Tell us about your property and the damage you are seeing. A first conversation and site visit cost nothing.

Enroll Your Property
Sources
💬 Message us