Lake of the Pines is a recreational community that includes beautiful common areas consisting of our lake, ponds, beaches, a golf course and green belt areas. Our common areas provide many recreational activities for our members. Our common areas also attract many different wildlife species. Since 2007, the resident Canada geese have become an invasive species to our members and other species of waterfowl. The geese population continues to increase. With the increase comes a threat to the health and safety of our members.

Research has shown that geese feces can contain diseases and bacteria such as:

• E Coli; possibly leading to kidney failure or death if untreated

• Salmonella; possibly leading to diarrhea & in rare cases spreading to the bloodstream

• Campylobacter; leading to diarrhea

• Histoplasmosis; in some people developing into lung infection

• Coccidia; causing urinary tract infection

• Giardia; causing intestinal infection marked by stomach cramps, bloating, nausea & diarrhea.

Since 2007, LOP has used many varied nonlethal measures as deterrents and harassment.  All have proved unsuccessful. In early 2020, a Federal Migratory Bird Depredation Permit was issued by the U.S Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) which authorized the taking of 80 Canada geese. In late 2020, LOP submitted a Renewal Application requesting the additional taking of 80 geese. Federal Permits do require LOP to continue nonlethal measures. 

PETITION ACTION; by signing this Petition, Members are requesting that the Board of Directors aggressively, and in a timely manner, pursue any and all means of legal elimination of Canada geese in LOP.