Peapack-Gladstone, a charming town in northern New Jersey, is facing intense debate over its decision to cull around 60 geese in Liberty Park. Town officials argue that the geese’s fecal matter poses health hazards, necessitating the culling during their molting season when they are flightless.
The plan has sparked outrage, with over 6,000 signatures collected in a petition against the culling. Animal rights advocate Doreen Frega criticized the move as “animal cruelty at its highest level,” urging the town to consider more humane alternatives like habitat modification and non-lethal deterrents.
Despite these pleas, the town has contracted the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Wildlife Services for nearly $45,000 over five years to carry out the culling. Mayor Mark Corigliano defended the decision, prioritizing human health and safety. Councilmember Julie Sueta, however, has shown dissent.
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The situation echoes past wildlife management controversies, such as the 2010 Prospect Park culling in Brooklyn. Critics argue for sustainable, humane methods to manage the geese population, proposing barriers and regular clean-up efforts as viable solutions.
The resolution of this issue remains uncertain, highlighting the challenge of balancing urban development with wildlife conservation.
