Managing geese

Balancing agricultural and conservation interests

Historically, wild geese have formed an important part of Scotland's nature and landscapes. A national policy framework for goose management has been in place in Scotland since 2000 to help balance agricultural and conservation interests. 

The national policy framework is currently being reviewed. The report is due to be completed in October 2010 and a Scottish Government Goose Management Project Board will consider the findings later this year. 

Minimising damage to crops and grass

Where geese are making use of agricultural land, initial responsibility for minimising damage to crops and grass rests with the farmer or crofter. However a local goose management scheme may be considered, where this proves impossible because:

• of goose numbers;
• or the necessary level of scaring and any associated shooting cannot be undertaken due to the protected status of the population.

Stakeholder representatives sit on the National Goose Management Review Group (NGMRG) which oversees the implementation of policy and considers applications for goose management.

Current local goose management schemes

There are currently seven local goose management schemes across Scotland operating within the national policy framework:

• Islay
• Kintyre
• Solway
• Strathbeg
• South Walls
• The Uists
• Tiree and Coll

These schemes are funded through SNH who also provides administrative support. Each scheme has been developed by a local goose management group which is chaired by Scottish Government Rural Payments Inspection Directorate.

The schemes aim to minimise losses to farmers, whilst ensuring that Scotland fulfils its international nature conservation obligations. For further information contact Morag Milne or see the Scottish Government website  .