By Cris Alarcon, InEDC Writer.
April 28, 2025
EL DORADO COUNTY, Calif. — Sheriff Jeff Leikauf of El Dorado County has aligned with sheriffs from seven other California counties to oppose proposed regulations that would limit coyote hunting, citing concerns over livestock protection and rural community safety.
The California Fish and Game Commission’s Wildlife Resources Committee (WRC) is set to discuss these proposed changes on May 15, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. in Sacramento. The proposal aims to amend Section 472 of Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations, which currently allows the take of nongame mammals, including coyotes, at any time and in any number. Under the new proposal, such actions would be prohibited unless direct evidence of property or agricultural damage is presented, effectively shifting to a depredation-based system.
Sheriff Leikauf and his counterparts from Siskiyou, Modoc, Lassen, Shasta, Plumas, Sierra, and Tulare counties argue that these changes would hinder proactive measures to protect livestock. They emphasize that requiring proof of harm after the fact could lead to increased losses for ranchers and farmers.
“Our communities, economies, and way of life are at stake,” the sheriffs stated in a joint letter, urging livestock producers, farmers, ranchers, and concerned citizens to attend the upcoming meeting and voice their opposition.
The Rural County Representatives of California (RCRC) also expressed concerns, noting that the initial proposal lacked sufficient public notice, preventing adequate input from stakeholders. They highlighted the potential for a spike in coyote populations, which could pose threats to both livestock and public safety. Gold Rush Cam
In El Dorado County, incidents involving predators have been particularly alarming. A tragic mountain lion attack in 2024 resulted in the death of 21-year-old Taylen Brooks and serious injuries to his brother, Wyatt. Sheriff Leikauf reported a significant increase in mountain lion encounters, with over 200 domestic animals killed in 2024 alone.
The May 15 meeting will be held at the California Natural Resources Building, Second Floor, 715 P Street, Sacramento, CA 95814. Participants can also join remotely via Zoom at https://wildlife-ca-gov.zoom.us/j/82201466595. For complete instructions on how to join the meeting via Zoom or telephone, visit www.fgc.ca.gov/meetings/2025.fgc.ca.gov
Written comments on the proposal are being accepted through May 2, 2025. Stakeholders are encouraged to submit their feedback to ensure their voices are heard in this critical decision-making process.
For more information and updates on this issue, please visit the California Fish and Game Commission’s official website.
