Edgewater HOA reverses previous action regarding goose management

MADISON – Controversy has surrounded the method a local neighborhood had decided to deal with their large population of geese, but a resolution to the issue seems to be close at hand.

Dozens of protesters gathered in front of the Edgewater subdivision off Zeirdt Road on Sunday demanding the survival of over 200 geese planned to be killed by the homeowner’s association. The HOA board voted on Friday in favor of working with the USDA in rounding up geese from around Lady Ann Lake and killing them.

After a large public outcry concerning the issue, the Edgewater HOA has reversed course. Here is a statement from the HOA:

The Edgewater Owners Association Board has voted to reverse its previous decision to engage the USDA for goose population management at Lady Ann Lake.

In recent days, Edgewater residents have shared their concerns through emails, phone calls, and direct communication with the Board. The Board has listened carefully to the feedback and recognizes the importance of ensuring resident voices are heard when addressing matters that impact the neighborhood.
The Board’s original action was based on recommendations from wildlife management professionals and reflected genuine concerns regarding sanitation, lake health, and community amenities.

Brian Goodwin, President, Edgewater Owners Association Board, stated “One of the most important responsibilities of the Board is to listen to the residents we serve. While this issue has been difficult for many in our community, it has also created an opportunity for more residents to become involved. 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.”

The Board recognizes that many of the humane alternatives discussed by residents rely on ongoing volunteer efforts, including monitoring the geese, maintaining the lake area, and helping keep common spaces clean. While these approaches were previously difficult to sustain due to limited volunteer participation, the strong response from the community has inspired many residents to step forward and get involved. The Board is encouraged by this renewed spirit of volunteerism and looks forward to partnering with residents to pursue practical, humane, and sustainable long-term solutions.

As part of that commitment, the Board will establish a Wildlife and Environmental Impact Subcommittee under the existing Lake & Grounds Committee. The subcommittee will provide an opportunity for interested residents to participate in researching best practices, evaluating humane wildlife management options, and making recommendations to the Board regarding future goose management and other wildlife-related matters.

At this time, the Board is committed to spending the next 12 months focusing on working with the new sub-committee to diligently take action on these matters. Any future proposals will be developed with additional research, resident participation, and thoughtful discussion before being presented for Board consideration.
The Edgewater HOA Board appreciates the respectful engagement demonstrated by members of the Edgewater community. While perspectives on this issue may differ, we all share a common goal of preserving the beauty, safety, and quality of life that makes Edgewater a special place to call home.

Residents interested in serving on the new Wildlife and Environmental Impact Subcommittee will be invited to express their interest through a forthcoming announcement from the HOA.