The next time you see Canada geese roaming UNF might be the last, in the core of campus at least.

Citing a “health hazard,” UNF is considering moving geese away from the center of campus with a goose control company, according to a press release from the university.

Although the federally-enforced Migratory Bird Treaty Act protects Canadian geese, the press release said the rapidly growing numbers “wreak havoc” by defecating on campus lawns, walkways and waterways. The geese produce two to three pounds of waste per day.

“Geese excrement contains a wide variety of pathogens — including E. coli — capable of infecting humans,” the publication said.

The possible solution: border collies.

Geese are naturally scared by the sight of dogs. From there, geese are basically taught and directed to relocate from high-traffic areas, like the Green and the Student Union, to spaces on the outskirts of campus.

Border collies, the publication said, instinctively herd other animals so they will not harm the geese. The practice is supported by organizations such as The USDA Wildlife Service, U.S. Fish & Wildlife, the Humane Society and PETA. The border collies in the program undergo a three-year training course.

The approximate cost to contract the border collies is $400 a month. The contract would last a year because the geese may come back in that time period.

The university asked faculty, staff and students to send solutions or feedback to the idea to ospreyupdate@unf.edu.

Spinnaker will continue to update this ongoing situation as more information becomes available.

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