Public Input Sought on Proposed Camping Ban Along Brookings Ocean Shore

Public Input Sought on Proposed Camping Ban Along Brookings Ocean ShorePhoto byStock Image

By Kristy Tallman, September 3, 2024

SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is seeking public comments on a proposed rule change that would prohibit overnight camping along the ocean shore within the city limits of Brookings. This proposed change follows a petition from residents near Mill Beach who raised concerns about public health, safety, and environmental impacts on the marine ecosystem.

Currently, similar prohibitions are already in place in several coastal cities, including Seaside, Cannon Beach, Manzanita, Rockaway Beach, Lincoln City, Newport, Bandon, and Gold Beach. The proposed rule for Brookings would align it with these cities, where overnight camping is restricted to protect the local environment and ensure public safety.

The petitioners cited issues such as pollution, safety risks, and negative effects on the marine ecosystem as reasons for the proposed ban. If the rule change is adopted, Brookings will join other Oregon coastal cities where camping on the ocean shore is restricted.

How to Submit Public Comments

OPRD is inviting public comments on the proposed rule change through 5 p.m. on October 15, 2024. Comments can be submitted in the following ways:

• Online: OPRD Public Comment Page
• Mail: OPRD Department, attn: Katie Gauthier, 725 Summer St NE, Suite C, Salem, OR 97301
• Email: OPRD.Publiccomment@oprd.oregon.gov
• Public Hearing: A public hearing will be held at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, October 9, at Southwestern Oregon Community College, Community Room, 96082 Lone Ranch Parkway, Brookings, OR 97415.

After the public comment period concludes, the Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission will review the feedback and consider the potential adoption of the rule at a meeting later this fall or winter.

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By Kristy Tallman, September 3, 2024

The Republic News

Source: Oregon Parks and Recreation Department

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