Waterfowl prefer to land on water and walk onto adjacent grassy areas to feed and rest. The most effective tools for controlling waterfowl movement are fences, hedgerows, and other physical barriers. Use scaring devices. Periodic movement of these items is recommended. Before using shell crackers, automatic exploders, or other pyrotechnics, check local and State regulations concerning permits and the use of firearms and pyrotechnics.
Some landowners use dogs to keep geese out of hay and grain crops.
Most effective are free-ranging dogs trained to chase birds as soon as they land. However, local leash laws may prevent such use of dogs. Local populations of waterfowl may be controlled if property owners prevent them from nesting. Since waterfowl are protected by State and Federal laws, a permit is required before eggs or nests can be disrupted. Before a permit is issued, the applicant must demonstrate that nonlethal habitat-management techniques were unsuccessful in controlling damage.