Fiesta Island Dog Owners (FIDO) began with a handful of people who utilized Fiesta Island as a source of recreation and exercise with their dogs. That was almost 30 years ago, and today, FIDO has continued its dedication to the preservation of the island in the face of massive redevelopment through the Mission Bay Master Plan Redevelopment by the City of San Diego. Many issues within the redevelopment plan are supported by FIDO members. The plan to improve the roadways and water quality for Fiesta Island is acknowledged and supported by FIDO. In addition, the plan to maintain the least tern preserves and native habitat on the island is something that is supported by FIDO members. It is important that the character of the island be retained by minimizing new development of turf, parking lots and roadways. Yet keeping ample leash-free acreage on the island is of upmost importance to FIDO. Paddlers in the area have selected a location that displaces more than 6,000 existing users on the southwest shore of Fiesta Island in the off-leash exercise area. The proposed plan jeopardizes the city’s last open natural park in Mission Bay, losing more than 30 percent of off-leash access around the island. Exorbitant costs will also be rung up in order to modify the area and add infrastructure. FIDO has done extensive research and believes Mariner’s Basin and South Shore are superior alternative sites, according to criteria set by paddlers. Other sites chosen would greatly reduce cost to the public (the city) and likely allow paddlers to secure a location faster than on Fiesta Island. FIDO remains committed to helping the paddlers establish a site that does not conflict with off-leash use. One of the most enjoyable aspects of Fiesta Island for dog owners is the leash-free area where dog and owner are able to run, walk and bike together. Veterinarians and animal behaviorists are aware of behavioral problems in dogs associated with lack of socialization and exercise. The San Diego County Veterinary Medical Association and the San Diego Humane Society support Fiesta Island remaining off-leash. In accordance with the redevelopment plan, the most heavily used fenced leash-free area on the island will be cut through the center. The Department of Park and Recreation currently designates a stifling 0.1 percent (40 acres) of its 40,000 acres of public land throughout the county to off-leash use for the area’s 700,000 dogs and their owners, making the island even more precious. Fiesta Island is also the last undeveloped, open park that exists for those who prefer a more natural environment rather than manicured parkland. In the past year, FIDO has grown to a membership of more than 5,000, with a current board of 12 ordinary citizens, and a modest budget of less than $1,000. FIDO members can be seen nearly each and every weekend on the island signing up new members, giving tours and spreading the word. How you can help Write a letter to Mayor Jerry Sanders. A sample letter is available on the FIDO website, www.fidosd.com. You can e-mail [email protected] and request to be added to the mailing list. Mayor Jerry Sanders 11th Floor, 202 C St. San Diego, CA 92101 [email protected]. You can e-mail letters to City Council member Donna Frye(Fiesta Island is in her district): [email protected] We dog lovers should come together and protect the rare and precious leash-free area on Fiesta Island.