Gopher Holes Causing Hazard For Children Playing On Oakland Soccer Field
OAKLAND (CBS SF) -- Gopher holes are getting in the way of soccer games on an Oakland field and creating hazards for children trying to play there.
Teams have formed on the Caldecott soccer fields in Oakland, but not all the kids are excited to get out there and play.
"The gophers don't come up. I just trip on the mounds," soccer player Lucas told KPIX 5.
Oakland Public Works says the gophers have migrated to the field this fall to munch on the broadleaf weeds there, causing the numbers of mounds to grow.
For parents the mounds are a small distraction, but the holes are getting in the way for the children playing there.
"Usually when I'm playing soccer, I either fall in a hole or when I'm running I sprain my ankle or something," player Lauren Monroe said.
With Oakland Public Works prohibited from using pesticides, or even trapping the critters, the problem doesn't have any easy fixes.
Many parents are just happy their children have a place to play.
"I guess it would be better without the gopher mounds, but I'm just happy the field is here," parent Katherine Rieger said.
