Despite the Ordinance against dogs in any Arlington Heights Park District parks, when you see the barking Border Collies at various parks be assured they are employees, not visitors. Hired by the Arlington Heights Park District, the team of dogs and their handlers work for the Geese Police of Naperville, IL. Their daily visits to the parks are intended to "exclude" the geese.

Enthusiastic residents and regular park users report it’s working. The dogs visit the parks as often as two or three times a day if needed. After a break in June when geese are grounded during their molt period, the Collies return to work through November. The dogs are trained to herd the geese, not harm them.

 
In a community survey, Park District residents listed the goose problem as one of their primary concerns. With the droppings and the occasional aggressiveness of the birds, it’s a genuine concern. Working with the Geese Police is a program used in conjunction with other methods of control.

An important component is educating the public not to feed the wildlife. They won’t migrate if they don’t have to forage for food. According to parks superintendent, Paul Guza: "We’ll probably always have geese at Lake Arlington. Our goal is to get a controlled flock in a natural setting to migrate."

FAQ

• Their populations have grown beyond the ability of the Park District’s "lakes" to accommodate them.
• In our recent community survey, residents asked us to look at the goose problem.
• Their droppings are a health and safety hazard, making it difficult to walk on the paths without stepping in them.
• During nesting times, the geese can become aggressive, posing a safety concern.
  

Stabilize the population-his is done through a protocol of egg depredation preventing eggs from hatching. This is a humane approach for which the District must be licensed.

Exclude them from the area-using the Border Collies, spraying the grass with a substance causing digestive reaction, and plantings as a deterrent close to the water.

Educate the public-to not feed the wildlife. If they have to forage for food, they'll migrate. If they expect people to feed them, they'll stay.

Will the Border Collies hurt the geese?

The dogs are trained to herd, not harm. They'll visit the site two to three times a day or more if needed. The geese are very persistent and return repeatedly to their favored places.

When will the dogs be working?

They began in May prior to nest building. They take a break during nesting season and during the birds molting period in June.

Results?

Residents have already reported a decrease in number. They appreciate the efforts and the significant difference in the "poop" factor in the area.

If you have any more questions please contact Paul Guza at 847-577-3013 or email pguza@ahpd.org.