KC may criminalize feeding Canada geese in parks

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) -- Kansas City may outlaw feeding Canada geese in city parks, a practice that officials say results in a bigger buildup of goose poop on sidewalks and trails.

A proposed ordinance introduced Thursday sets a maximum $500 fine and a jail sentence of up to 6 months for feeding geese that crowd into parks. Chunks of bread and other treats entice more of the big birds to stay around for more, which creates an even worse mess.

Parks officials say rain washes the goose droppings into adjacent creeks, which could affect water quality. But park users complain that so much of the gooey, green goose poop coats walkways that it's unpleasant -- and downright risky -- to go for a walk.

Officials say that if the ordinance is enacted, the primary targets will be frequent goose-feeders who have continued the practice after being asked to stop.

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Information from: The Kansas City Star, http://www.kcstar.com