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Goose Management

Geese love Runyan Lake almost as much as we do. Unfortunately, they show their affection by redecorating our lawns, docks, and the island with a level of enthusiasm that would make a toddler with finger paint jealous. To keep things pleasant for humans, we partner with the DNR each year on a humane goose management program—one that only works if enough waterfront owners sign the annual petition.
Runyan Lake participates in a state‑regulated goose management program designed to protect water quality, shoreline usability, and public health. Each year, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) requires a new permit and a minimum percentage of waterfront property owners to sign a petition authorizing the program. This page provides a clear explanation of how the program works, what residents can expect each season, and how you can help support a safe and healthy lake environment. What You’ll Find on This Page
  • A summary of the DNR‑regulated goose management process
  • Details on spring nest and egg management
  • Information about the annual June round‑up (when applicable)
  • Resources for reporting nests or concerns
How You Can Help
  • Sign the annual petition so RLI can obtain the required DNR permit
  • Report active nests on or near your property
  • Avoid feeding geese, which increases population pressure
  • Use simple deterrents to discourage geese from settling on your shoreline
Our goal is to maintain a clean, safe, and enjoyable lake for all residents while following state guidelines and humane wildlife management practices.

Runyan Lake’s goose management activities are conducted under a permit issued annually by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR). The program follows established state guidelines and uses humane, science‑based methods to control local goose populations and protect lake health.

 

Below is an overview of the two primary components of the program and the reasons they are necessary.

 

Egg & Nest Management (Spring)

Egg and nest management is the most effective and humane method for controlling goose population growth.

 

Key points:

  • Conducted only under an active DNR permit
  • Performed by trained and authorized volunteers
  • Prevents new goslings from hatching and reduces long‑term population pressure
  • Residents are encouraged to report nests on or near their property
  • Volunteers handle all egg treatment; residents should not disturb nests themselves

This early‑season step significantly reduces the number of adult geese that remain on the lake throughout the summer.

 

Annual Goose Round‑Up (June)

When necessary and permitted, a licensed wildlife contractor conducts a goose round‑up during the molting period, when adult geese are unable to fly.

 

Key points:

  • Conducted only if the DNR permit is approved and population levels warrant action
  • Performed by a licensed contractor experienced in humane wildlife handling
  • Geese are relocated to DNR‑approved sites
  • Timing is restricted to a short window in late June when geese cannot fly

This process helps maintain a manageable population and reduces shoreline contamination.

 

Why Management Is Necessary

Canada geese are a natural part of Michigan’s ecosystem, but high concentrations around inland lakes can create significant environmental and public‑health challenges.

 

Key concerns:

  • Excessive fecal matter on shorelines, docks, and the island
  • Elevated E. coli levels that can impact water quality
  • Damage to lawns and vegetation
  • Reduced usability of common areas
  • Increased aggressive behavior during nesting season

The goal of the program is not to eliminate geese, but to maintain a healthy balance that protects both the lake environment and resident enjoyment.

This section provides guidance for residents who encounter geese or nests on or near their property. Following these steps helps ensure that the lake remains safe, clean, and compliant with state regulations.   Reporting a Nest If you discover a goose nest on your property or in a nearby area: Reporting nests early in the season allows volunteers to perform humane egg treatment under the DNR permit.   If Geese Nest on Your Property Geese can become protective and aggressive during nesting season. Recommended steps:
  • Keep a safe distance from the nest
  • Avoid walking pets near the area
  • Do not attempt to relocate the nest
  • Notify RLI so a trained volunteer can assess the situation
All nest and egg management must be performed by authorized individuals under the DNR permit.   Why You Should Not Feed Geese Feeding geese, even unintentionally, increases the likelihood that they will remain on the lake and nest nearby. Feeding geese can lead to:
  • Larger, more aggressive flocks
  • Increased fecal contamination on shorelines and docks
  • Higher E. coli levels in the water
  • Greater property damage and vegetation loss
Allowing geese to forage naturally helps maintain a healthier balance.   Discouraging Geese From Your Shoreline Simple, non‑harmful deterrents can help reduce goose activity:
  • Keep grass slightly taller near the shoreline
  • Use temporary visual deterrents (flags, reflective tape, etc.)
  • Limit access to easy landing zones
  • Remove food sources, including spilled birdseed
These steps make your property less attractive to nesting geese without harming wildlife.   Contact Information For questions, nest reports, or concerns related to goose activity, click the link below to contact:  RLI Goose Management Coordinator David Verbeke

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