Morro Bay Mutt Mitt Program

Donations Needed to Continue Morro Bay Mutt Mitt Program

This program was begun in 2000 by Sandra Beebe. Since that time she and her husband Curt have installed 35 Mutt Mitt dispensers in and around Morro Bay. In addition the city has installed 3 dispensers on the Harbor Walk which are maintained by her program. Two more dispensers have been put up by private individuals at Cuesta by the Sea and Mutt Mitts are supplied to them at times. Funding at present comes from NEP grants, an award from the County Water Board, Rotary Club of Morro Bay, Spencer’s Fresh Markets, Morro Bay Power Plant, Ca. State Parks, Harbor Walk program, Morro Cove HOA and private individuals.

This has been a community effort. Contributing their efforts have been Mary Leizear, Diane Moore, Bill Woodson, Heidi and Mike Baird, Ron Johnson, Barbara Engel, and Marty Smith. Curt Beebe has installed all the dispensers and repairs them when needed. Goofy Graphics in Morro Bay has been very supportive of this effort and made all the signs needed to be added to the dispensers.

The program not only has been successful in reducing the amount of feces that ends up in our Estuary, but the visibility of the program has raised awareness for dog owners to behave responsibly by removing their pet’s waste. Although many dog owners carry their own bags (grocery plastic bags, newspaper plastic bags, etc.) the fact that the Mutt Mitts are there and convenient encourages others to follow suit and pickup what their pets leave behind.

Unfortunately, both the City of Morro Bay and the State of California are under budgetary restraints at the present time so funding to this program, that they strongly endorse, is challenging. We are seeking out businesses, organizations, and individuals that would be willing to contribute $300 to support one dispenser for approximately one year. Acknowledgement that they are sponsors is placed on each of the dispensers. In addition individual contributions of any amount are also gratefully accepted.

Contributions may be sent directly to: Sandra Beebe, 500 Fresno Ave. Morro Bay, CA 93442. Make the checks out to “The Bay Foundation” for a tax deduction. Be sure to note “Mutt Mitts” on the front of the check. The Bay Foundation is a 501(c)(3) and is administer by the National Estuary Program.

For more information about this "Mutt Mitt" Program, contact Sandra Beebe, 500 Fresno Avenue, Morro Bay, CA 93442, email dargi@charter.net, or phone 805-772-6013.