The Solutions to the Brent Goose Problem: An Economic Analysis

Abstract

Five possible solutions to the problem of over-wintering brent geese (Branta bernicla) grazing on farmers'crops in Britain are described: maintaining the status quo, culling brent geese, paying compensation to farmers and setting up alternative feeding areas on set aside land or reserves. The financial costs and benefits associated with each solution are calculated with respect to society as a whole (the taxpayer), farmers, conservationists and the wildfowlers. A cost-benefit analysis shows the optimal financial solution for society to be the establishment of alternative feeding areas whereas the optimal solution for farmers would be the payment of compensation