Hunters and wildlife managers can quickly and responsibly store the animals here, after which game dealers and butchers can further process the meat.

The establishment of a network of cooling cells is part of the Wildlife Management Plan Geese 2025-2031. This plan includes agreements to limit damage to agriculture, nature reserves, enhance flight safety, and prevent waste of goose meat.

Deputy Jelle Beemsterboer: “The shooting of geese remains a drastic measure. As a province, we believe it is important that this is done carefully. Currently, processing is insufficiently organized, leading to a lot of food being wasted. Thanks to the new cooling systems, the meat can be processed and end up on peoples plates. I am pleased that we are preventing food waste with this and hope that people will also try the goose meat.”

Collaboration between stakeholders

The current 5 cooling cells have been arranged in collaboration with the Wildlife Management Unit North Holland, LTO Noord, and various wildlife management units (WBE’s). They are located throughout the province, so hunters do not have to drive far and the animals do not spoil.

Context

In North Holland, tens of thousands of geese are shot each year. This happens because the population has grown significantly and causes damage to nature, agriculture, and poses risks to flight safety. Until now, many of these animals ended up in the waste stream. With the new approach, the meat can be responsibly utilized through the game dealer or butcher.