If you do fertilize the lawn, remember that less fertilizer more often is better than a single, large application. Apply plant or lawn fertilizers only when plants show a need- not because you are following a schedule. In recent years, non-migratory ducks and geese have been living the good life, protected and encouraged by human development in King County. These waterfowl love to feed on the succulent grasses of well kept lawns. With few natural enemies to keep their numbers in balance, geese and ducks can overpopulate and become a nuisance.
Large flocks can overgraze lawns, littering yards and docks with droppings and molted feathers.
Canada geese are protected by the International Migratory Bird Treaty Act and, therefore, should not be harmed. Because geese and ducks are attracted to lawns or domestic grass growing along lake shorelines, a buffer of natural vegetation between the water's edge and a home-owner's lawn will deter them. Lakeside Logic Remove trash, old tires and other unnatural objects from the lake shore. Keep cars and livestock away from the lake shore. Construct boardwalks and ramps that allow reasonable access to lakes without causing shoreline erosion.