I felt compelled to respond to Mr. Walmsley’s letter regarding the recent special event at Leo Carrillo State Park. I certainly respect Mr. Walmsley’s opinions, however I felt that it might be useful to share another perspective. The surf contest that was referenced in Mr. Walmsley’s letter was actually part of the first annual “Back to Blue Surf Fest” which was planned as a major fund raising event for the Leo Carrillo Children’s Education Center. The event was widely publicized in the local media, the Internet and local surf shops. The closure of a surf break for an organized event is certainly not without precedence. One of the most popular venues for professional and amateur contest is Lower Trestles that is part of San Onofre State Beach. This beach is used many times each year for surfing competitions. Steamer Lane in Santa Cruz is another public park that is used often for surfing competitions. With only two contests during the year, Leo Carrillo is seldom impacted by organized contests.
It has been many years since County Lifeguards operated at Leo Carrillo. Our State Lifeguards were following the spirit of the closure order when they asked Mr. Walmsley to leave the water. While recreational surfing was restricted for a portion of each day, there were plenty of other options available. The closure order listed several alternative surf breaks in the vicinity. Mr. Walmsley also questioned State Park’s authority to enact such a closure. This authority is clearly stated in the law that gives State Parks the right to establish such a closure. This authority extends 1000 feet from shore.
(Public Resources Code 5003.05)
I sensed that Mr. Walmsley was concerned with outsiders participating in the event and littering the beaches. State Parks has a global perspective and welcomes visitors from all over the world. My experience has shown that littering is a bad habit that has no geographic boundaries.
It is unfortunate that Mr. Walmsley’s day was impacted by the activity at Leo Carrillo. This was the only complaint that was registered compared with several letters of appreciation. This was a very good event that benefited a wonderful project. There was never any intent to violate Constitutional rights or compromise my ethics.
Hayden W Sohm
Malibu Sector Superintendent