Lompoc's 25-year 'Free Surf Beach' push nears state decision on fishing access

A petition to restore fishing access at Surf Beach could come before the California Fish and Game Commission during its Oct. 13-16 meeting, bringing new momentum to a campaign that began roughly 25 years ago.

Lompoc Mayor Jim Mosby is seeking to open approximately a half-mile of beach for shore fishing. He said the petition has been in the works for years and recently advanced after a Fish and Game commissioner visited Surf Beach. Mosby argues that Lompoc, as an environmental justice community, carries a disproportionate share of coastal restrictions tied to protected areas.

Decades-long campaign revived

Longtime Lompoc resident Greg Gideon started the "Free Surf Beach" campaign about 25 years ago after access became restricted. Old stickers and signs with that message are reappearing around town. Gideon remembers surfing, skimboarding, and walking dogs freely along the beach in the 1970s, 80s, and 90s. While Mosby's petition focuses on fishing, Gideon wants broader recreational access restored between Surf Station and Ocean Park.

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife said its evaluation and recommendation regarding fishing at Surf Beach have not changed. Several outcomes are possible if the petition is heard in October, including granting it as submitted, granting it with modifications, or denying it. For more on local government decisions, visit /news.

Facts via KSBY.