I was surprised to learn of the extensive and expensive measures being taken to deal with the disadvantages of hosting wild geese in our area, as reported in The Day (Sept. 23) Elizabeth Regan, “Does East Lyme have to kill birds to solve geese problem.”

There may be an easy solution, inexpensive and beautiful. When I lived across from the marshes in the 1960s, swans flourished. They were beautiful to watch, stayed on the water except to nest, and avoided humans and pets who swam or canoed in their watery domain. The problem: folks were concerned that swans were not indigenous to the region; and the decision was made to "addle" the swan's eggs to eliminate them. This process was very successful and within about three years, very few swans remained. However, geese began to flourish.

The geese were a pain, they pooped on lawns, and wandered on land in groups that could feel threatening. (I remember walking home along a trail in a game refuge with my 3-year old. It took me about 45 minutes to reassure the geese that we were not a threat, and then edge our way back to the trail beyond the geese.) I am not an expert; I can only report my youthful memories. Bringing back swans may not be the answer, but I am troubled that the article gave no mention of this history or possible solution.

Pam McDonald

Pawcatuck