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MyspaceTwo Vandenberg beaches are a few strikes away from closure for the rest of the summer as the number of violations in these snowy plover restoration zones nears the allowed maximum.
In a nesting season that runs from March 1 through September 30, Vandenberg’s Surf Beach is already at 47 out of the permitted 50 violations and neighboring Wall Beach is at 9 out of 10 violations.
Base law enforcement officials generally detect infractions that include disturbing nesting areas and wet sand near the dunes by footprint evidence. The base is required to enforce federal laws but says it is in Vandenberg’s interest is to keep the beaches open for the public to enjoy. To do so, people must follow the rules posted at the entrances of the beaches.
“Failure to comply with beach restrictions may result in fines and penalties that can reach up to $50,000 and up to one year in jail,” said Samantha Kaisersatt, 30th Civil Engineer Squadron biological scientist.
The six-inch light brown shore bird was placed on the federal endangered species list in 1993. Last year, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service designated Vandenberg Air Force Base as part of the 1,200 miles of tri-county coastline that are designated zones for ongoing restoration efforts.
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Comments
This is so ridiculous. Poor little timid birdie has the whole rest of the coast to nest in, including but not limited to: the Hollister Ranch where they DRIVE giant 4 wheel nest crushing drive vehicles up and down the beach all day long. Now lets see, instead we will shut off the entire beach for half the summer for a whole city of beach users. I am all for mother nature, but sometimes things clash. The U.S. fish and wildlife service and the plover nazi's need to pull their heads out. Plus you have natural predators..owls, crows, hawks, raccoon s, skunks, did I miss any? Perhaps we could just rent all the Plovers a room at the Miramar and be done with it? Maybe you guys could shut down Coal Oil Point too if there are enough violations?
bimboteskie (anonymous profile)
July 20, 2012 at 3:02 p.m. (Suggest removal)
This is & has been designated protected area for plovers. Coal Oil Point is good example of good cooexistance & stewardship but takes deicated force of volunteers & coordination. It is I believe Air Force property so they manage it. Private propery is manaed diffently. University & Public property are managed with general publics interest hopefully balanced with species preservation,recreation, and access for all. With levels of ability to access Public Beaches.
rabbitrun (anonymous profile)
July 24, 2012 at 8:49 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Hmm, wonder if those rocket launches or jet engines sucking the birds thru them bum the plovers out? I am still not buying it. One of those beaches should be designated Lompoc city beach and should be opened year round. Give the plover the other two. Now all of Lompoc/Vandenberg get to drive to Jalama for any sort of beach activities until October? That is some BS when balanced with 4wd's running them down up at the Hollister Ranch only 15 miles away? Hypocritical double standard. Save beach access, eat more Plover.
bimboteskie (anonymous profile)
July 24, 2012 at 9:43 a.m. (Suggest removal)