Feb 22 2012
CSUCI’s University Park
There’s been a few articles in the Ventura County Star this week about CSUCI’s University Park (formerly Camarillo Regional Park), whose ownership was recently transferred from Ventura County to the California State University system. Apparently, the university wants to generate a plan for the park’s future, the idea of which sounds great on paper.
Unfortunately, many are concerned (and perhaps rightfully so) about the future of the pond and airstrip used by model boaters and pilots alike.
As a CI graduate, local resident, and park patron, it doesn’t seem difficult to accommodate all of the various viewpoints, as they’re not mutually exclusive.
First, leave the airstrip and pond intact. Not only are they unique features to the area, they’ve been there for quite some time already, and cause little to no environmental harm. Not to mention that these groups both willingly pay rent, which can be used to keep the park and its facilities up to date. And, unlike the turkey shoot which is no longer allowed due to the danger of the nearby homes, these hobbies are safe, clean, family-friendly fun. I myself have even been known to stop while on a ride through the park to admire the aircraft as they perform gravity-defying stunts over the open space.
One complaint, however, is that while the model RC club members have gate keys, the general public does not have the same sort of access. I propose to move the gate back, beyond the RC field. This would allow the RC club and its visitors access without having to use a key, and allowing anyone to drive up to the field as they like. It also means that there’s no gate to be left open on the weekends, allowing offroad vehicles to trespass into the park as I’ve personally seen (and unexpectedly encountered) many times. If that’s not an option due to wanting to keep offroad vehicles from that stretch of dirt road, a second gate in that location would have a similar effect with little to no added cost.
There’s some who want to restore the area to its natural state. With regard to the old dairy, I completely agree. The derelict facilities are nothing but an unsightly haven for criminal activity, and an accident waiting to happen. For a one-time cost that shouldn’t be terribly significant, the university should finish cleaning up the mess known as Scary Dairy. Let local wildlife take its rightful place where cement, rusted steel, and general garbage lay now. (I’ve spotted everything from couches, to hot water heaters, to refrigerators, and even mattresses.)
And finally, amenities for hikers would be a definite improvement. Restrooms and running water at the trailhead, along with a connection to the trails of the Santa Monica Mountains would have a minimal environmental impact while promoting healthy outdoor recreation. And while the idea of paid parking has arisen, my basic and completely unreliable armchair analysis says that maintenance of these facilities shouldn’t require the use of paid permits. If it comes to that, however, I might be willing to budge a bit, though CSUCI’s regular charge of $6 is a bit steep to go hiking.
With these changes, most everyone’s happy, and with minimal expense.