24 | Hunting Info: 402-471-0641
1.5"
1.5"
PUBLIC HUNTING AREA SIGNS
STATUS OF LIGHT GEESE AND THE LIGHT GOOSE CONSERVATION ORDER
The Light Goose Conservation Order was established in 1999 with the objective to reduce
snow and Ross's goose populations damaging subarctic and arctic breeding habitats, as well
as wintering and migration areas. Using methods and regulations not allowed during regular
waterfowl seasons — such as unplugged shotguns and no daily bag limits — participants began
pursuing light geese in unprecedented fashion. Harvest of light geese doubled initially, but
quickly leveled off. Indices of light goose populations followed the same pattern.
So, where are we with light goose populations and the conservation order?
The conservation order appears to have worked for reducing and stabilizing the greater snow
goose population in the Atlantic Flyway. Greater snow geese were causing large-scale damage
at breeding, migration and wintering areas. With implementation of the conservation order, the
harvest rate doubled and carryover effects — such as less frequency of nesting and reduced
clutch sizes — resulted in a stable population. Currently, there is no evidence of habitat damage
in breeding areas and limited damages in migration or wintering areas.
The situation for the midcontinent population of lesser snow and Ross's geese (combined, known
as light geese), is more complex. A decade ago, population estimates were as high as 20 million
birds with no sign that the conservation order was having the desired effect. However, recent
estimates put the population below 8 million birds and declining. This recent decline is not
believed to be a result of the conservation order, as harvest rates remain low and adult survival
Lands owned, controlled
or managed by the U.S.
Fish and Wildlife Service,
which are closed during the
Light Goose Conservation
Order, except Harvard and
Cottonwood waterfowl
production areas, are
designated by the sign on
the right.
Lands owned, controlled
or managed by the
Nebraska Game and Parks
Commission, which are
open during the Light
Goose Conservation Order,
are designated by the sign
on the right.
