Many Danish farmers, particularly in West Jutland and the southeastern parts of the country, report increasing levels of damage to agricultural crops caused by barnacle geese. While ongoing studies by Aarhus University and a range of project partners aim to quantify the damages and seek viable solutions to the conflicts, SAGRO – an agricultural association in West Jutland – invited farmers and other stakeholders to participate in a meeting to share experiences, discuss current challenges and explore population management strategies. The meeting was held in Esbjerg, Denmark, on 21 November 2024.      

Prof. Jesper Madsen, Head of the EGMP Data Centre, gave a presentation on the status, development and management of European goose populations. Although the meeting mainly focused on the Barnacle Goose, Prof. Madsen also introduced the general concepts of the EGMP and explained how the range states work together to make joint decisions and implement relevant management actions.

Following his presentation, results from local research projects were shared, along with an overview of the legislation related to Barnacle Goose management throughout the year. Finally, Ms. Lene Midtgaard from the Danish Hunters’ Association presented the hunters’ perspective on current opportunities for derogation shooting and other means of alleviating conflict.