Designated goose-feeding spot being created

North Idaho College is creating a no-feeding zone on most of the NIC Beach in an attempt to reduce the number of resident geese. Beachgoers will be encouraged to feed the geese in a designated feeding zone that will be added to the northernmost area of the half-mile-long beach near the lumber mill.

More than 80 Canada geese live on the beach year-round, and during the spring, attract additional migratory geese. Each goose generates more than two pounds of excrement daily, which contains many bacteria that can pose potential health risks to humans.

The NIC grounds crew will install walking paths and benches soon to encourage people to use the designated goose-feeding zone. Signs along Rosenberry Drive will indicate that feeding the geese is prohibited on the rest of the beach.

“Persuading 80 geese and ducks to strictly inhabit one area for feeding will be challenging, but by providing a feeding area, it will create a safer and cleaner environment for everyone,” said NIC Grounds Supervisor Rhonda Smalley. “The geese and the ducks will go where the food is, and the public’s willingness to use the goose-feeding area will be instrumental in the success of this public awareness and safety effort.”