Editor:
We just read about the intention of the Blue Ocean Golf Course to cull geese on their course and their request for an exemption to the district’s firearm policy (Sechelt Briefs, May 14).
The main reason for the request is goose droppings deterring players and posing a health hazard for humans.
I believe the issue could be handled differently than through shooting the geese.
This matter is rather one of attitude and perspective. You may attract or deter customers, depending on the information provided about them.
As golf courses create an artificial habitat for geese, they will always be attracted to them.
According to Environment Canada, there is no direct evidence that goose droppings pose a danger to human health. Of course any poop should be handled with caution but I don’t think they pose a threat when coming in contact with your shoes.
Goose droppings are excellent fertilizers for lawns and do the landscape much more good than chemical fertilizers.
A real problem on golf courses is the use of pesticides. Blemish and weed-free standards come at a cost to the environment. Fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides and astounding amounts of water are all necessary ingredients.
Golf courses should make their patrons aware of the amount and types of pesticides used on their turf; they have a worse impact on our health and on surrounding wetlands, ground water and landscapes than goose droppings.
Geese ingest the toxins while feeding on the grass.
Suggestion: Add some birding opportunities to the golfing experience.
Turn the golf course into an environmentally friendly enterprise. The Vineyard Golf Course in Martha’s Vineyard is a great example of an organic golf course that is so popular that there is a waiting list to play.
Annette Clarke, Roberts Creek
