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Military base’s golf course is hoping shotgun blasts will be a deterrent against Canada geese

The Petawawa Golf Club is joining the Canadian forces base and Environment Canada in an effort to scale back the on-course Canada goose population.

Excessive excrement and the birds’ aggressive nature have posed a threat to public health and safety. One strategy being taken includes a series of shotgun blasts between 6-7 a.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Although safety sweeps of the area will be made prior to the firing and sentries will be posted, the public is urged to avoid the sixth and seventh holes on the golf course during the procedure.

Environment Canada has permitted the culling of two birds per week. The base is hopeful that the sound of shotgun blasts and the sight of geese carcasses will encourage the birds to seek new habitat away from the golf course.