*This story was updated with comments from Environment and Protected areas of Alberta
BONNYVILLE - Concerns about dead Canada geese along Jessie Lake have prompted the Town of Bonnyville to issue a public advisory.
In the statement, which was released on July 23 by the Town of Bonnyville, people are being urged to avoid the area, and to not approach any geese. Jessie Lake is bordered on its north end by the Town of Bonnyville, and by agricultural land to the south.
The cause of these dead Canada geese is still unknown.
The advisory stated that Town staff are working closely with provincial officials to access the situation and, if necessary, remove any affected birds to ensure public and environmental safety.
“Alberta Fish and Game authorities have been notified and are assisting with the investigation,” said the Town of Bonnyville.
Lakeland This Week reached out to the Town of Bonnyville for more information about this situation.
In an emailed response on July 24, Robynne Henry, communications coordinator for the Town of Bonnyville, stated that at this time, the only available information regarding the Canada geese at Jessie Lake is the statement issued by the municipality.
“Further updates will be provided as new details emerge,” Henry said.
According to Ryan Fournier, press secretary to the Honourable Rebecca Schulz, Minister of Environment and Protected areas of Alberta, there can be many causes or contributing factors when dead wildlife is discovered.
As with any such case, Fournier explained, Alberta Environment and Protected Areas is working with partners, including the Town of Bonnyville, to further investigate this incident.
“While it's too soon to speculate what the cause may have been, we will continue to support the local authorities to ensure the health and safety of the community and that the environment is protected,” he stated.
“We cannot comment further until the investigation is complete.”
