Residents of El Dorado County are invited to attend a community meeting later this month focused on mountain lion awareness, public safety, and potential changes to state law regarding wildlife management.
The meeting will be held Monday, March 16, at 6 p.m. at the Cameron Park Community Services District, located at 2502 Country Club Drive in Cameron Park. Officials say the event will provide an opportunity for residents to learn more about recent mountain lion activity in the region and discuss possible legislative solutions.
El Dorado County Sheriff Jeff Leikauf is expected to lead the discussion, outlining concerns raised by residents and law enforcement regarding mountain lion encounters in foothill communities. The sheriff will also discuss proposed legislation he has been developing with Marie Alvarado-Gil, who represents the region in the California State Senate.
“Community awareness and public safety are critical when it comes to living alongside wildlife,” Leikauf said in a statement promoting the meeting. “This discussion will help residents understand the risks, learn how to respond to encounters, and hear about legislative efforts aimed at addressing those concerns.”
Mountain lions, also known as cougars, are native to California and commonly inhabit rural and foothill areas, including parts of El Dorado County. While encounters with humans remain relatively rare, sightings occasionally prompt public safety concerns, particularly in communities near open space and wildlife corridors.
The upcoming meeting will allow residents to hear directly from local officials, ask questions, and participate in a conversation about how state policies might evolve to address safety issues while balancing wildlife protection.
Organizers say the meeting is open to the public and encourage community members to attend and engage in the discussion.
Meeting Details
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Event: Mountain Lion Awareness & Public Safety Community Meeting
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Date: Monday, March 16, 2026
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Time: 6:00 p.m.
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Location: Cameron Park Community Services District
