Duck 'Hazing' to Begin at DeCoursey Park

From the City of Puyallup:

WSU Puyallup Research and Extension Center and the Friends of DeCoursey Park (FDP) are taking this opportunity to notify you of an activity scheduled at DeCoursey Park. For a 30 day period, in May-June 2013, trained dogs will be perform an activity known as “Hazing." Hazing is a proven strategy used to move nuisance waterfowl out of public spaces.

Hazing Strategy Description:

Trained herding dogs follow their trainer’s voice commands to chase or move waterfowl off DeCoursey Park land or pond. This strategy is used to convince waterfowl that continuing to reside at the location is undesirable. The dogs are directed to move only the domestic/hybrid duck population (not the wild waterfowl) from park property without harm.

The Handler will work two herding dogs off leash in the park and pond. Bright yellow service vests with a flashing light easily identify the herding dogs. 

Hazing selection criteria: 

• visual impact of process provides an opportunity for public education
  
• not harmful to waterfowl (ducks, geese, others)
  
• proven successful at Wapato Park in Tacoma
  
• approved by Washington Dept. of Fish and Wildlife
  
• no impact to park visitors or park neighbors
  
• dogs focus only on the nuisance adult ducks
  

dogs will not haze the ducklings, sick/lame ducks, or wild ducks

Hazing Schedule: 

A 30 day hazing schedule was developed between May and June 2013 after reviewing the previously collected survey data, ensuring the migratory wild waterfowl are not present at the park during the trial.

Hazing occurs randomly between 7:00am-9:00 pm. For more information or to volunteer to count ducks contact:

Laurie Larson – Program Specialist
WSU Puyallup Research and Extension Center
Washington Stormwater Center 
(253) 445-4593
laurie.larson-pugh@wsu.edu

Brief Study History:

Washington State University Puyallup Research and Extension Center received a Department of Ecology Grant to study Clarks Creek Water Quality in 2011. As part of the study a citizen advisory group, Friends of DeCoursey Park (FDP) was formed.

The FDP was formed to complete two tasks:
1. research, evaluation and rank waterfowl lowering strategies for use at DeCoursey Park
2. document the number of ducks at DeCoursey ParkHigh-ranking strategies were submitted to city agencies, including the Park Advisory Board and thecommunity for comment and approval.