Vandenberg reopens all beaches

SANTA BARBARA COUNTY, Calif. - Vandenberg Space Force Base has reopened all beaches on base property that were previously closed due to snowy plover nesting season.

Minuteman, Surf, and Wall beaches have yearly restrictions in place normally March through Sept. 30.

The restrictions go into effect to protect Western Snowy Plovers which nest and lay their eggs on the beaches.

On Monday, the beaches reopened ahead of schedule after it was determined all chicks have fledged and left their nests as of Sept. 16.

The beaches are now open fully with boundary fences and signs removed.

The base is reminding all visitors to the beach to take care of the area and follow beach rules. These rules include no littering, no camping or beach fires, no off-leash pets, and no horses or ATVs except for authorized personnel.

Lifeguards are not on site at the beaches so visitors should be extra safe if entering the water.