08/20/08 Bend
A viewer, Jen in Bend, says “I live on the SW side of Bend and drive by the Old Mill District on a daily basis.  I always enjoy passing by the rock chuck colony near The Bluffs development by the Reed Mkt/Brookswood circle.  Does the City of Bend do anything to make sure that there are no harsh chemicals used in treating the grass where these rock chucks graze?  These little guys are such a part of Bend and the Old Mill District I would hope they aren't being fed fertilizer with their grass!”
 
KOHD News has learned that property does not belong to the city of Bend.  It is owned by the Old Mill District.  Managers say they do fertilize the grass four times a year, but sprinklers wash the fertilizer underground.  We’re also told the animals won’t eat the fertilizer and even if they did accidentally eat it, it could make them sick, but it will not kill them. 
 
If you have a local question, email us at news@kohd.com and we will find an answer.