Getting serious about geese in Foster City

A new plan released Nov. 26 recommends a variety of techniques, including using remote control devices, strobe lights, lasers and chemical repellents. It could also include “propane cannons, pyrotechnics and electronic devices,” the report said, though such methods may trigger noise restrictions. The recommendations are geared toward seven of the city’s parks, such as Leo J. Ryan Park, Catamaran Park and Sea Cloud Park.

The report also mentioned reproductive control methods.

“By identifying and monitoring nesting areas, nests can be oiled, eggs addled or removed to prevent hatching. This reduces site fidelity, as geese born in conflict areas tend to return to nest there,” the staff report stated.

Councilmember Jon Froomin said he is open to the recommendations but is concerned about the potential for continuously increasing costs and bureaucratic hurdles.

“We spent $40,000 to $50,000 on a report, and then it came out that we needed to do an environmental review. That increased the cost by over $100,000 additional dollars,” he said. “Based on conversations with staff, it seems that many of the recommended techniques will still need individual environmental review. … What was the point of the $100,000 for an environmental review if it doesn’t give us permission to do the things in the report?”

Contrary to what many previously thought, he said he is also relieved that nonlethal mitigation doesn’t necessitate removing all grass in the city’s parks. While it may not be inexpensive, he said many of the strategies are achievable.

The geese have been more than just a nuisance for city residents. Staff say the increase has reduced water quality within the lagoon, as the high amount of fecal matter introduces health risks, such as the spread of pathogens like E. coli.

While blowback to the initial controversy attracted lots of attention, Froomin added he hopes the conversation will focus on those residents most impacted.

“Foster City took a lot of heat and got a lot of notoriety as we discussed options, and that probably persuaded other cities to do things less visibly,” he said. “Many of the people who were talking weren’t even residents, who weren’t paying for the services, and that makes it more difficult.”

The City Council will discuss the plan Monday, Dec. 2.