The Bergen County Sheriff's Office sent six K-9 Unit dogs and handlers to Memorial Field in Washington Township Wednesday morning, according to Mayor Janet Sobkowicz.

The visit was the first of what may be many in an attempt to rid the field of Canada geese while also giving the dogs a chance to exercise and do some extra training.

Councilman Fred Goetz said at a previous council meeting that he had counted more than 100 geese on the field. Excessive geese feces was one of the complaints a group of residents brought to the council about Memorial Field last year.

Officials had previously considered using a chemical deterrent to dissuade the geese, but they had concerns about the amount of time needed for the chemicals to set, their temporary nature and the possibility that residue could end up on children who use the field.

Sobkowicz said Wednesday that having the K-9 Unit visit in force may also have an additional benefit for public safety.

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