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Paula Bettencourt's Comments.

This year we are experiencing a higher number of coots than usual. Coots and (Canada Geese are migratory birds which are also an issue here in the Park), are protected under Federal law. Other golf courses and parks throughout the state are experiencing problems similar to ours. Migratory birds have become a hot topic for park professionals nationwide.

Over the years, we have taken a variety of actions to discourage thecoots and geese from residing at Shoreline.A border collie is used to herd the birds back into the water to encourage them to move to a newlocation. We have used tapings of geese alarm calls to try to convince the geese that they are in danger here and should move elsewhere. We have also sprayed a variety of solutions that are designed to safely encourage birds to move on. A new product aimed at reducing the goose population through the broadcasting of feed that contains a contraceptive has just been approved for use in the state of California. Information concerning the process by which we can use the product will be available after January 1. Staff and the Advisory Greens Committee have discussed the bird topic a number of times.We even considered posting staff or volunteers at some of the more heavily soiled greens to hose the greens off several times a day but are concerned that would create optimum conditions for snow.
We are very aware that the bird droppings create a problem for golfers and other park users and continue to look for alternatives that will discourage the birds from residing in Shoreline.We want a clean,welcoming course that golfers can enjoy.Customer service is very important to us.The birds are a continuing issue. Their protected status makes the situation very, very difficult to manage. As I indicted earlier, bird dropping have become a top issue for park managers throughout the state and many other places in the country.Here at Shoreline, we are ahead of the curve in terms of the many deterrents we have used. Still, we recognize the droppings are a problem.None of the literature I have read indicates there is a potential health risk associated with the droppings and normal golf or park use. Federal and state officials echo that sentiment. Nonetheless, the droppings are an aesthetic issue and a concern for us.We continue to investigate new and better methods for bird control.

Paula Bettencourt.
Assistant Community Services Director

Please remember to check in at least 20 minutes early for all tournaments and remember to call Pro Shop at (650)903-4653 Friday before the game if you are not able to make your Tee Time.