Information – Page 2 – Shamrock Pines Homeowner's Association, Inc.

October 15, 2017March 26, 2018

Natural Beauty

Every now and then someone expresses curiosity about the land that borders the rear of their property…

Who do these areas belong to? What am I allowed to do back there? Are there restrictions? What about thinning or removing trees and shrubs?

Formally these areas are listed as tracts “A”, “B”, “D” and “E” on county records. Tracts “A” and “B” are common areas owned by Shamrock Pines HOA, Inc. Tracts “D” and “E” are owned by the North Coast Land Conservancy. All four tracts are separate and apart from each homeowner’s property.

Per Section 2.14 of the Shamrock Pines HOA Declaration of Deed Restrictions (CC&Rs) these areas are considered “dedicated riparian buffer and wetlands” and are to remain in a natural state. This not only ensures the beauty of the waterways, but the health and welfare of the plants, animals and birds that call it home.

Click here to read more about tracts “D” and “E” which are under the supervision of the North Coast Land Conservancy as part of the Neacoxie Wildlife Corridor and the Shamrock Pines Wetlands.

These “riparian zones” are also under the jurisdiction of the City of Gearhart. Click here to read the City’s recent post including restrictions and maintenance requirements.

Be Proactive

Keep in mind that plant roots help avoid erosion along creek banks so care must be taken when removing noxious weeds and vegetation (allowed by the City). Trees are key to the eco-system and should never be thinned or cut without prior approval from the HOA and the City of Gearhart. Folks that have weathered winter storms can attest to their value as windbreaks as well!

So before taking any action in your backyard, per section 8.3.4 of our Bylaws, be sure to check where your property line meets the tract area, then complete and submit an Approval Request.

As we all know, these areas are home to dozens of migratory and year-round songbirds. Waterfowl dominate the open water and riparian area. Beaver can be seen navigating the creeks as well. It’s nature at its best and one of the “crown jewels” of Shamrock Pines. So enjoy this unique slice of nature’s beauty in our neighborhood!

Feel free to contact the HOA for additional guidance.

July 28, 2017September 12, 2021

Skunk Watch

There are naturally plenty of small creatures living in our rural area that are active throughout year. One of the least favorites of course are skunks. Not only can their noxious scent ruin a nice evening out, they can cause damage to lawns and gardens.

If you’ve ever had a pet “skunked” you know how traumatic it can be for the pet (even causing blindness) and how difficult it is to get them clean. Here is a highly recommended recipe for cleaning pets that have had a bad encounter with a skunk:

Skunk Odor Removal

To keep skunks away from your property, be sure to remove food sources, secure your trash and close off hiding/nesting areas.

How To Get Rid of Skunks

Here’s a good video about keeping skunks away from your property:

Click here to view the products recommended in the video.

July 28, 2017May 10, 2018

Elk Watch

Beautiful To See…From A Distance

The local elk are very unique with at least two large herds. They are generally afraid of humans and will keep their distance, but if spooked they can charge people and pets or stampede causing damage and destruction to property and anything that gets in their way. So stay quiet and enjoy them from a distance.

Although elk may look docile, they are wild animals that need plenty of space and should never be approached. They can do serious harm if challenged by people or pets. They may become aggressive anytime of the year.

Please make sure any visitors you’re hosting understand that the local elk are wonderful to watch…from a distance.

April through August is elk calving season

Please be careful around the local elk. The cows are very protective of their young during calving season.

Be aware of your surroundings and keep your dog on a leash during elk calving season.

September through November is elk mating season

At its peak from mid-September to mid-October is a time when male elk, or bulls, vie for the hearts of their female counterparts, known as cows.

The bulls become more aggressive during this season, charging at each other and locking antlers as they battle over dominant status. Although competition is high, actual fighting is rare since it causes injury and depletes energy. Rather, they compete by showcasing their antlers, necks and bodies.

Males can be especially aggressive during mating season. So listen for their “bugle calls”.

Additional Information and Reading Materials

Welcome to Gearhart Where Elk May Be Your Neighbor

Elk Among Us – The Coastal Edge Special Edition

Limit Elk Damage to Your Property

Here’s a great little PBS video about the “Elk of Gearhart”, we hope you enjoy it: