BY JAMES ROBINSON
Former Los Alamos County Councilor
and Wildlife Advocate

Living in Los Alamos, I have always been inspired by the remarkable wildlife that shares our home. I’ve spent years advocating for ways to coexist with nature responsibly, which is why I support the proposed wildlife feeding ordinance. While I don’t take the introduction of new rules lightly, this ordinance is a commonsense approach to protecting our community and wildlife.

Feeding wildlife often comes from a place of good intentions, but the consequences are far-reaching. By feeding wild animals, we unintentionally put them and ourselves at risk. Diseases like those carried by rodents and larger animals can spread to humans and pets. At the same time, feeding disrupts wildlife behavior, leading to dependency on people and even aggressive interactions. This ordinance addresses these issues in a way that benefits everyone.

It’s also important to recognize how this ordinance helps our local law enforcement. It provides them with clear tools to address serious offenders—those whose actions harm wildlife and disturb the community. It doesn’t target those who simply enjoy feeding ducks at the pond. With these guidelines, officers can focus on real concerns, keeping them available for other matters that demand their attention.

As someone who has worked on wildlife conservation projects in Los Alamos, I know firsthand how important it is to let nature take its course. Feeding wild animals might seem harmless, but it often leads to malnutrition and illness in the animals we think we’re helping. To truly protect them, we must allow them to rely on their natural instincts and habitats.

This ordinance reflects our community’s commitment to being responsible stewards of the land. Los Alamos is a place where people and wildlife coexist, and this step ensures that we can preserve that balance for future generations.

I urge my fellow residents to join me in supporting this important measure. Together, we can keep our community safe and ensure a healthy future for the wildlife that makes Los Alamos so special.