Pointers on living in proximity to coyotes

The Carson Valley’s vast and varying landscape is home to many different wild creatures, so it’s a good idea to know how to respond appropriately should you ever encounter one. The Nevada Department of Wildlife website, ndow.org, offers lots of useful information on living in close proximity to these animals.

Neighbors have reported several coyote sightings recently, and the NDOW webpage, “Living With Coyotes,” provides some helpful pointers and suggestions.

As omnivores, coyotes will eat anything from fresh meat to grass, seeds, fruits, insects, and carrion. In years past, I’ve seen more than one coyote stealthily slipping in and out of our yard in search of fallen peaches and apples. To discourage these types of visits, remove potential food sources from around your home. These include fallen fruits, pet food, birdseed, water features, and compost. Be aware of decks, woodpiles, and excess shrubbery, all of which may provide cover or a place for a coyote to build a den.

Pet safety suggestions include keeping cats indoors or in a secure outdoor enclosure. Always keep a close eye on dogs when outside and be especially alert at times of dusk and dawn. Never allow a dog to interact with or chase a coyote. When walking with a dog, make sure it is kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet. Outdoor dog runs should be fully enclosed with a roof.

Should you cross paths with a coyote, try to haze it away by standing your ground and getting big and loud. Wave your arms and yell and keep doing so until the coyote completely leaves the area. Never run from a coyote, and don’t corner it when trying to haze it away; always make sure it has a way to escape. Hazing can help coyotes maintain a healthy fear of people, making things safer for all.

Concert and cornhole this weekend

“Concert and Cornhole for a Cause 2024,” the second annual fundraiser for local non-profit organization The Porch 21 from 4-7 p.m. Saturday at Dangberg Home Ranch Historic Park, 1450 Highway 88 in Minden.

The event features live music by acoustical classic rock band, Rock-Papa-Sisters, cornhole tournament and yard games, food and drink vendors, a silent auction and raffle, local resource connections, and more. Tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for active military and first responders, and $5 for kids. Two-player corn hole teams are $40 which covers admission and tournament play; boards are provided and players are asked to bring their own bags.

Proceeds benefit TPM’s mission to help build community “one porch environment at a time.”

Founder Tammy Claughton was inspired to start TPM as a way to combat the “loneliness epidemic” and encourage people to gather “for the purpose of authentically connecting with others, intentionally holding space for one another, and lending a genuine helping hand as needed.”

To learn more or purchase tickets, visit TPM’s website at https://www.theporchmovement.com/ and click the “Concert & Cornhole 2024” tab near the top of the page. There’s also a “Calendar” tab that lists other upcoming porch events. Questions can be directed via call or text to 775-434-8719.

FISH seeking winter clothing donations

In collaboration with Partnership Douglas County, Carson Valley Friends In Service Helping is gathering new and gently used winter clothing and other cold-weather items for their annual Winter Coat and Clothing giveaway scheduled 3-6 p.m. Oct. 10.

Through Oct. 8, donations of coats, hats, gloves, boots, and blankets can be dropped off 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday at the Gardnerville Ranchos Family Service Center, 921 Mitch Drive in Gardnerville. Organizers said items for all ages and genders are welcome, and donations in children’s sizes are especially needed.

Call 775-265-3474 for more information.

Amy Roby can be reached at ranchosroundup@hotmail.com.