Santa Monica Canyon Civic Association

August 2001 SMCCA BULLETIN - Coyotes / Improvements

COYOTE SIGHTINGS

We have received reports from several members including Lucinda Mittleman who have observed coyotes in the Kingman / East Channel Road area. Amy Mueller of the Upper Canyon group has forwarded the following message from Lucinda:
This summer there have been an unusual number of coyote sightings in Santa Monica Canyon. Neighbors have shared with us that they have seen coyotes on our streets at all hours of the day/night, especially between 5 a.m. to 8 a.m., after 7 p.m., but even at 11:30 a.m. as well. A coyote was spotted in an enclosed fenced backyard on Kingman. They have been seen disappearing between yards on San Lorenzo and Alisal. Someone saw a coyote with a pet cat in its mouth on east Channel. On 7/25 at 6 a.m. a coyote showed little hesitation as it approached a woman walking a large golden retriever on Kingman at Mesita.
To report coyote problems contact the California State Department of Fish and Game. Our regional office is located in San Diego. The number is: 858-467-4201.
For all SM Canyonites-- We did have a Ranger come out and begin to assess the coyote situation. He would like to hear of any coyote problems you may have had. These animals are wild yet very unafraid of humans and dogs. He assumes that someone may be feeding them. PLEASE DO NOT FEED THE COYOTES. If you have seen a coyote(s) at the same location several times, please contact Ranger Jim Beckwith (Cell 310-864-5298) who is assigned to this area and is researching the problem.
Lucinda reports that last Saturday the Fish and Game warden interviewed her and actually recommended walking around the neighborhood with a wood golf club to fend off coyote attacks. For more information she suggests going to the LA County Animal Control website http://animalcontrol.co.la.ca.us/ . Click on "living with wildlife" then on "coyote."
The best course of action is to keep pet food and smaller pets indoors.

PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS NEAR CANYON SCHOOL

At the request of the Association the City is repairing and repainting the split rail fencing near Canyon School. Also, a private contractor has been hired by the City to replace the nonfunctioning storm drain adjacent to the school kindergarten. The new drain will eliminate the constant pooling of stagnant water at this location.

STORM DRAIN LOW FLOW DIVERSION PROJECT

The diversion project has received environmental clearance from State Fish and Game. It is scheduled for State Coastal Commission approval in September with construction to begin soon thereafter. This project will divert the low flow water from the flood control channel at the Golden Bull parking lot into the city sewer system. Because the runoff in the channel contains animal wastes and various urban pollutants, State Beach consistently has been rated "F" by Heal the Bay. The project should result in a cleaner and safer beach. We will keep you informed of progress.

Email us
infosmcca@aol.com

Links

County Animal Control - click on Living with Wildlife