Canada goose reductions at Summit Lake and Potato Creek State Parks

Indiana DNR Release:

Having attempted various non-lethal methods of managing the Canada goose populations at Summit Lake and Potato Creek state parks with little success, the DNR will conduct controlled goose reductions in November and December. Similar reductions occurred in 2007 and 2008.

The dates chosen coincide with hunting seasons to optimize effectiveness and take into consideration state and federal law, local flight patterns and goose behavior. Certain areas of Potato Creek will be open only to participating hunters on the dates of both of its two-day reductions, Nov. 9– 10 and Nov. 23–24. Summit Lake will be closed to all but reduction participants on Dec. 5–6.

Large amounts of goose waste at both park’s beaches, picnic areas and in bank-fishing locations have raised health concerns, adversely affected visitor enjoyment, increased erosion and resulted in increased operating costs.

Participation will be determined by a drawing similar to other DNR waterfowl draws. Successful applicants can bring up to three individuals along to hunt if they wish. These individuals do not have to be on the applicant’s application. Groups will be assigned to specific reduction areas. Shooting hours will be one-half hour before sunrise to sunset. An unrestricted stand-by drawing for eligible participants will occur each morning, 90 minutes before local sunrise to fill spots not claimed by successful applicants by that time.

Hunters who want to participate in the reductions must complete an online application between Sept. 21 and Oct. 4 at http://www.IndianaOutdoor.IN.gov. Individuals can apply for any set of dates.

Applicants and stand-by participants must be Indiana residents and 18 years of age by Nov. 9, 2009, and should have their hunting license number and Harvest Registration Program (HIP) number ready to enter in the application. Though hunter education is not required, preference in first-round drawing is given to those who have completed a hunter education course. Hunters must present a state waterfowl stamp and federal duck stamp on site on the day of the reduction, do not need to possess them to apply. Apprentice licenses are not applicable.


For more information, see these related Web sites:

http://www.IN.gov/dnr/parklake/2413.htm
http://www.IN.gov/dnr/fishwild/2996.htm