Notice is hereby given by the City of Nanaimo (City) of its intent to direct award a contract to:

Pearce Environmental Consulting
4162 Churchill Road
Prince George, BC V2K 1C3

Summary & Details:

In May 2016, a research study was initiated by Stew Pearce at Vancouver Island University (VIU). The study was in partnership with the City of Nanaimo, with the objective of assessing the abundance, distribution, and movement of Canada geese (Branta canadensis) in the Nanaimo area. To accomplish this objective, 400 geese were tagged over two (2) years (i.e., 2016 and 2017) with leg bands and conspicuous neck collars which allowed individuals to be identified in the field. A comprehensive survey route throughout Nanaimo was implemented to enumerate geese and monitor tagged individuals. Surveys along this route were conducted at monthly intervals, and tagged geese were also monitored through voluntary reports from the public. The school-related portion of the study concluded in March 2017, but the study has been continued by annual contract since June 2017. Since then, 75 monthly surveys and four annual moult surveys were completed, and over 10,700 collar sighting reports were compiled. The culmination of these efforts is the most robust, up-to-date Canada goose population database in the region. These data have provided insight into local Canada goose distribution and movement patterns, in addition to trends in population growth. The study objective moving forward is to continue population monitoring in order to support management initiatives.