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Cost Effectiveness of OvoControl G® for Managing Nuisance Canada Goose (Branta canadensis) Populations: A Comparison of Theory and Field Applications (Abstract only)

Abstract

OvoControl G® is a relatively new product that reduces the hatchability of Canada goose (Branta canadensis) eggs. However, little data is available on the cost of application. We present a model for estimating the cost of application of OvoControl G for managing nuisance Canada goose populations and compare that model to the cost and results of field-based 2 applications in Oregon. Our model showed that at low goose densities, fixed labor costs are responsible for a significant portion of the total cost. As goose densities increase, these fixed costs become equivalent to, and eventually less than, the costs associated with the purchase of the product. As we expected from the model, the cost of applying OvoControl is high compared to the actual reduction in reproduction. However, even with this apparently high cost, cooperators were pleased with the results. We also present several scenarios that managers may employ to further reduce the cost of application.

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