Temporary closure of Oceano Dunes unlikely to reduce air pollution

OCEANO, Calif. - The temporary closure of the Oceano Dunes due to COVID-19 is unlikely to have a lasting impact on the amount of particulate matter in the air in and around the park, according to the San Luis Obispo County Air Pollution Control District.

SLO County APCD said they have received a large number of inquiries about particulate matter in the air and whether or not the temporary closure of the dunes due to COVID-19 has reduced air pollution.

The Air Pollution Control District, citing a study from the Scientific Advisory Group (SAG) that has been actively researching and working to reduce particulate levels from the Oceano Dunes, said a few weeks or months of temporary closures and off-road vehicle restrictions will likely not have any effect in the immediate or long-term future.

SAG says only continued and sustained restoration projects will lead to a significant reduction in particulate matter emissions. The group has developed a formal letter and guidance on the topic that is currently available online.

The Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area was closed abruptly on March 17. 12 days later, Gov. Gavin Newsom ordered the full closure of California State Parks to recreational vehicle traffic.

Access to the Oceano Dunes is limited at this time and is closed to camping and vehicular use due to the COVID-19 pandemic.