Regional Goose Management

Canada geese were only occasional visitors to Vancouver Island in the past. To increase wildlife viewing and hunting opportunities, Canada geese were introduced to the area creating a population of resident geese that do not migrate. The large grassy spaces and water features found in the capital region lack predators and are an ideal home for geese. The increasing populations of Canada geese are causing environmental, economic and social impacts.

How are Canada Geese impacting the region? 

Goose Management Info Sheet [PDF/1MB] 

How can you help?

Property Damage

There are several things you can do if you are experiencing damage on your property from Canada geese. These include exclusion, habitat modification, egg addling and removal. Some of these activities require a federal permit and a full description can be found in the Government of Canada's Handbook for Managing Canada Geese and Cackling Geese in Southern Canada.

For additional information please contact the CRD at goose@crd.bc.ca if you are experiencing property damage due to Canada geese.

Additional Resources for Agriculture and Food producers:

Agriculture Wildlife Program

AgriStability 2024 

Canada Goose Management Strategy

In February 2023, the CRD Board approved a Canada Goose Management Service Establishment Bylaw that aims to reduce the impact of the rapidly growing Canada Goose population in the region. The bylaw was adopted after receiving elector assent through a regional alternative approval process (AAP).

The CRD is working with local governments, First Nations, stewardship groups, and key stakeholders to implement the strategy which will include an egg addling program, coordination of provincial and federal permits, and conducting strategic harvests.

The regional Canada Goose Management Service will provide coordinated management of Canada Goose populations and include:

  • Monitoring, mapping and reporting on Canada Goose populations and their impacts.
  • Coordinating and establishing collaborative partnerships with municipalities, First Nations, large landowners, Peninsula and Area Agricultural Commission, other government agencies and stewardship groups to implement the CRD's Regional Canada Goose Management.
  • Facilitating the development and implementation of a communications strategy and public education program to support the management of Canada Goose populations.
  • Collaboration with other Vancouver Island regional districts, local governments, and First Nations to reduce Canada Goose populations through the Vancouver Island Canada Goose Management Working Group.

Additional resources:

Regional Goose Management Strategy (PDF) [PDF/5MB]

Canada Goose Management Bylaw No. 4522 [PDF/73KB]

Media Release (Feb. 8th, 2023)

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Territorial Acknowledgement

The CRD conducts its business within the Territories of many First Nations, all of whom have a long-standing relationship with the land and waters from time immemorial that continues to this day. Statement of Reconciliation