MISHAWAKA, Ind. -- The City of Mishawaka announced it will begin its second Canadian goose relocation effort in two years.

Officials say this is part of its humane wildlife management strategy to address the growing goose population and its impact on parks, waterways, public spaces, and neighborhoods throughout the community.

The relocation will be handled by a wildlife management contractor approved and permitted by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources and in accordance with state and federal regulations governing the humane capture and relocation of Canada geese.

Over the past few years, the city says a variety of non-lethal goose deterrent measures recommended by wildlife management professionals and the Indiana DNR have been implemented.

These measures included the following:

• Bird-X ultrasonic deterrent systems
• Coyote decoys
• Green laser deterrents
• Remote-controlled vehicles and boats
• Noise deterrent devices
• Temporary fencing barriers
• Habitat modification techniques
• Backpack blower dispersal efforts
• K-9 goose management programs
• Specialized turf treatments and repellents
• Professional wildlife management consultation

Officials noted these efforts only provided temporary relief, and the goose population has kept growing.

Concerns raised by the city include excessive droppings, damage to turf and landscaping, water quality impacts, aggressive behavior during nesting season, and reduced enjoyment of parks and public gathering spaces.

"The city has worked diligently to implement a wide range of humane, non-lethal management techniques over several years," said Matthew Lentsch, Executive Director of Development and Governmental Affairs. "Unfortunately, despite those efforts, the population continues to exceed what many of our public spaces can reasonably sustain. Relocation has become a necessary and responsible management tool to help restore balance while continuing to treat wildlife humanely and respectfully."