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Protecting Johnson Valley: A Community Rallying Cry
In Johnson Valley, California, the off-road community is facing a renewed battle to protect their cherished recreation space. Following a decade of hard-won victories against military encroachment, a new threat looms—this time from above. The U.S. Military has proposed the establishment of Special Use Airspace (SUA), aiming to create restrictions that could severely limit access to airspace above this iconic off-highway vehicle (OHV) area.
Historically, Johnson Valley has served as a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, with events like the King of the Hammers (KOH) drawing massive crowds and supporting local economies. The BlueRibbon Coalition (BRC) and various land-use advocacy groups are mobilizing to oppose this new proposal, emphasizing that public comments are due by September 15, making it crucial for affected communities to voice their concerns.
Understanding the Impact: Why This Matters
The proposed SUA has significant implications not just for recreational access but also for critical safety operations. The Marines maintain that ground access would remain unchanged; however, the restrictions on airspace would block civilian aviation operations, including emergency medical evacuations. For those enjoying the valley, timely medical assistance often comes from air transport, a resource that is vital when accidents occur during high-adrenaline recreational activities.
The economic repercussions are considerable, too. The King of the Hammers event brings in approximately $34 million annually to San Bernardino County. Without the ability to leverage air support for safety and event coverage, the future of KOH is uncertain, putting a cherished tradition and its local economic windfall at risk.
A Compromise Under Threat
Back in 2013, a bipartisan compromise resulted in half of Johnson Valley being designated as military training grounds while the other half remained a permanent OHV area. Now, the military's seek for airspace control contradicts the intentions of this compromise and could lead to severe restrictions similar to those witnessed at sites like Yuma Proving Ground in Arizona, where public recreation has virtually ceased under analogous circumstances.
Options on the Table: What the Marines Propose
The Marines have put forth three alternatives for the proposed SUA. The first option suggests implementing permanent, strict airspace restrictions over Johnson Valley, which holds the potential for the greatest limitations on civilian access. The second alternative plans to expand military airspace under a concept termed “shared use,” but offers little clarity on the realities of such cohabitation, leaving the public to wonder how practical it would be. Lastly, the no-action alternative would keep the status quo, preserving the balance that Congress originally struck between military needs and public recreation.
Voices of the Community: A Call to Action
The vibrant community that has built around Johnson Valley understands the importance of preserving their rights and recreational freedom. The current proposals threaten to undermine years of compromise and collaborative planning, establishing a precedent that could threaten other public lands in the future. As public comments are collected, a unified voice from outdoor enthusiasts is necessary to demonstrate to decision-makers that this fight is not just about Johnson Valley, but about the future of outdoor recreation nationwide.
As we rally against these new restrictions, let your voice be heard! Speak up before September 15, and join the movement to save Johnson Valley. Together, we can take a stand for our rights to adventure, exploration, and community in one of California's beloved landscapes.
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