Mile 171 - Heceta Beach South, almost to North Jetty - November 16, 2012

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There is a continuing problem with dog owners on this beach (from the North Jetty to just north of Driftwood Shores) letting their pets off leash. Many of these dogs are large and out of control. When I run on this beach for exercise, I am often chased--sometimes as much as three times during the course of one run. There are also pet owners who are not picking up pet waste, or worse, bagging pet waste and leaving the plastic bags either on the beach or in the parking lots. There are three main points of entry to this beach: 1. Paid county parking north of Driftwood Shores: has good signage about leash laws/fines. 2. Free parking lot south of Driftwood Shoes: no dog-related signage at all. 3. North Jetty parking lot: has TINY "leashes required" sign that is easy to miss. My understanding is that county law requires leashes of six feet or less and that the fine for violators is $141 per dog. I need to be in touch with the county about enforcement and better signage as the situation is getting ridiculous.