Falconer Pilot Program Presentation by Steve Schuller

The City of Oak Harbor held a council meeting on February 18, 2026, to discuss and approve a pilot program employing a licensed falconer to deter nuisance birds in the downtown waterfront area. The program, running from March through July 2026, aims to address public health, business impacts, and water quality concerns caused by birds attracted to the built environment. The city plans to contract Sky Patrol Bird Services LLC for this service at a cost not to exceed $35,000, funded through existing public works budgets shared among solid waste, storm water, and streets departments. The council authorized the mayor to execute the professional services agreement and directed staff to implement complementary in-house efforts such as waste management improvements and storm water monitoring. The pilot will be evaluated for effectiveness and potential future adjustments.