LOUISVILLE – The annual Wilson Hill goose drive is scheduled for 8 to 11 a.m. Thursday, June 27.

The goose drive, organized by the state Department of Environmental Conservation will provide participants with a hands-on experience banding birds in a safe and controlled environment.

It will start at the Wilson Hill boat launch, at the south end of the causeway leading to the houses at Wilson Hill Island. Participants in this half-day event may wish to bring a canoe or kayak, personal floatation device, boots or sneakers, wet weather gear, and a long-sleeved shirt to keep arms from being scratched while handling geese.

Water levels at the Wilson Hill Wildlife Management Area remain. Water levels in the East Pool, the site of the drive, will be higher than those at last year’s drive. DEC also anticipates more vegetation in portions of the pool.

The Massena Rod and Gun Club is providing snacks and drinks for the banding effort.

If you plan to help, RSVP by June 20 to DEC at information.R6@dec.ny.gov or call Mike Morgan at (315) 705-5539.

DEC has been banding geese at Wilson Hill for more than 50 years, collecting vital information on thousands of birds that have been banded at this site.

For more information on the Wilson Hill Goose Drive, visit www.dec.ny.gov/animals/7102.html.