By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff
The California Coastal Commission recently issued a staff report that recommends OHV riding at the Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area (SVRA) be scaled back and eventually prohibited. Oceano Dunes SVRA encompasses nearly 3,600 acres along the Pacific Ocean, of which OHV use is now limited to 1,500 acres or less. Oceano Dunes became a state OHV park in the 1980s and is the only such park on California’s coast. While SEMA is submitting written comments, the SEMA Action (SAN) is asking OHV businesses and enthusiasts to contact the Commission as well and highlight the importance of allowing responsible OHV use at Oceano Dunes without unreasonable restrictions.
The California Coastal Commission will be reviewing the permit for OHV use at the Oceano Dunes SVRA during its July 11 meeting in San Luis Obispo. The Commission will review staff suggestions to amend the permit, which include a prohibition on night riding, the addition of more fencing to restrict OHV use, eliminating unlimited OHV use on holidays, and increased enforcement efforts focused on vehicle use and speed limits. The Commission will also review proposals to provide year-round protection to a 300-acre endangered species area, which is currently protected on a seasonal basis, and future closures for the purpose of dust control.
For more information, click here. For details, contact Eric Snyder at erics@sema.org.