Solano County sheriff warns about costs, damage of a blooming almond orchard selfie
The Solano County Sheriff’s Office on Thursday warned people taking selfies or having picnics on privately owned almond orchards while the flowers are in bloom could be arrested or issued costly fines for trespassing.
In a lengthy Facebook post, sheriff’s officials wrote they understand that it can be alluring to get up-close photos of the almond flower blossoms, a season that typically lasts from mid-February through mid-March.
But officials said such activity and traffic congestion could leave behind trash and environmental effects that produce lasting damage to the properties and the crops.
“This is a crime, this is illegal, and farmers have every right to request selfie seekers stay off their private property and if necessary seek criminal prosecution,” according to the Sheriff’s Office’s Facebook post.
Officials warned that anyone entering private property without permission of its owner is considered trespassing, a misdemeanor crime that could result in an arrest or a citation that could lead to fines up to $1,000. They said most of these areas are not accessible and marked with private property signs.
Last weekend, there was a steady stream of people stopping along rural roads and in orchards to get photos of the almond blossoms in unincorporated areas near Dixon and Vacaville, according to the Sheriff’s Office.
Recently, there have even been vehicles stuck in orchards. Other issues include picnic trash and damage to watering lines.
Sheriffs officials say many “selfie seekers” have brazenly driven into the orchards to set up for photos, while they share Solano County wine and a picnic and let their children and pets run through the orchard and flower petals.
Even parking along nearby rural roads could create problems for the orchard owners’ tractors, trailers, trucks and other farm equipment trying to get through the area safely, sheriff’s officials say.
Orchard owners told the Sheriff’s Office that they’re concerned about civil lawsuit liability and the environmental impact on the crops as the number of onlookers increase.
“The Solano County Sheriff’s Office is aware of the allure of our beautiful community and welcomes visitors, but we are committed to community service and will continue to look out for our local farmers and property owners,” according to the sheriff’s Facebook post.
This story was originally published February 20, 2020 at 6:50 PM.
