The Crystal Lake Park District has introduced a new measure intended to improve the cleanliness of a popular beach by deterring geese.
Officials announced on Instagram the “Away With Geese” deterrent light system has been installed on piers surrounding the swimming areas at the Main Beach.
The system uses small, slow-pulsing amber lights mounted on floating, 2-foot-tall units that are designed to strike geese at eye level to disrupt their sleep patterns and discouraging them from gathering overnight near the beach and shoreline.
“Fewer geese around the swim area helps reduce waste on the beach, docks, and in the water—creating a cleaner experience for everyone enjoying Crystal Lake this season,” the park district said in its Instagram post, in part.
At night, the lights may resemble a faint distant cigarette light or a slow-flashing construction beacon.
According to the park district, the system is humane, environmentally friendly and designed not to be obtrusive to nearby residents.
