HOA reverses decision to euthanize neighborhood geese after residents push back

MADISON, Ala. (WAFF/Gray News) - A homeowners association board has voted to reverse its earlier decision to euthanize neighborhood geese after residents pushed back against the decision.

The Edgewater Owners Association board made the change after residents voiced concerns through emails, phone calls and conversations with board members. The board heard the feedback and wanted to ensure residents had a stronger role in decisions that affect the neighborhood.

Board leaders said the original plan followed recommendations from wildlife management professionals and was driven by concerns about sanitation, lake health and community amenities.

“One of the most important responsibilities of the Board is to listen to the residents we serve. We have heard your voices, and we want to channel that passion into productive solutions. We encourage residents to step forward as volunteers and work alongside the Board as we explore responsible, humane, and sustainable approaches to managing our goose population,” Brian Goodman, board president, said.

The board said many of the alternatives discussed by residents would require consistent volunteer involvement, from monitoring geese and maintaining the lake area to helping keep common spaces clean. While similar efforts have been difficult to sustain in the past because of limited participation, the board said the recent response has prompted more residents to get involved.

As part of its next steps, the board plans to create a Wildlife and Environmental Impact Subcommittee under the Lake and Grounds Committee. The subcommittee would research best practices, evaluate humane wildlife management options and make recommendations to the board on future goose management and other wildlife-related issues.