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2008 News and Information

Community Invited to Public Forum to Discuss Snow Geese in Richmond

09 April 2008

This winter it wasn’t difficult to find snow geese in Richmond, as over 100,000 of the migratory birds used the Fraser Delta as a place to rest during their fall and spring migrations, with many staying in the region over the winter. Evidence of snow geese was seen in schoolyards, backyards and green spaces – anywhere the geese could find a food source.

The City of Richmond is hosting a Snow Goose Forum:
Date: Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Location: Richmond Cultural Centre Lecture Hall
7700 Minoru Gate
Admission: Free
“We are offering this a forum as a means of responding to the concerns heard this winter,” explains Kris Bauder, Nature Park coordinator. “This is an opportunity for people to learn something about snow geese, what is happening with their populations and why they were so prominent in Richmond this winter.”

A representative from the Canadian Wildlife Service will be on hand to talk about the birds and their population dynamics while a representative from Vancouver Coastal Health Authority will address any concerns about health issues. City staff will explain techniques Richmond used this winter to move birds out of areas where they posed the greatest concern and efforts currently underway to repair damaged fields.

“The long term response is the development of a snow goose management plan for the community,” says Bauder. “The geese are a protected species under three national jurisdictions (Canada, US and Russia) and are valued as an integral part of the life of the delta. It is the goal of the City to find ways to maintain a healthy community for both people and geese.”

The City is working with YVR and the Canadian Wildlife Service to determine the best management strategies for all the Fraser Delta communities inhabited by the geese. The forum is an opportunity to share information about the snow geese with residents and address any concerns.

For more information about the forum please call 604-718-6188.