The Canada geese crossing signs in the Dieppe traffic circle have come down.
The Atlantic Wildlife Institute was informed this week, that they had not been given permission to put them up in the first place.
Director of Wildlife Care Pam Novak believes it was a miscommunication, because they did not approach the province directly to get permission, “We found out we had to deal directly with the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure on the provincial level. They told us, in situations of animal crossings like this, it isn’t something they would normally give approval for.”
We contacted the Department of Transportation and received a written statement, that said, “The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure (DTI) understands the concerns of residents however our number one priority is the safety of the travelling public. While the intention for the signs was positive there is potential for serious accidents if motorists stop or swerve as it creates a hazard for not only themselves but other drivers.”
Novak says, “All we were looking to do is just create awareness to a situation to a problem that is increasing every year with breeding season with the Canada geese. That’s how we’re looking to approach it, that there is a situation that needs to be addressed.”
She says they’ll be trying to work with the province to see if they can have the signs put back up, or if there is another way or solution to this issue. She says, “This is a growing problem, and they need to deal with both the issue of protecting the wildlife, and ensuring there is public safety as well.”
