Californians have shared their disappointment after a popular beach was closed indefinitely due to extensive storm damage.
Refugio State Beach near Santa Barbara was closed this week after experiencing several winter storms and torrential rains that left huge sinkholes and downed trees.
The state parks department said it made the decision following “the complete failure of an extensive sewer system” and that “there is no planned date for reopening at this time.”
Locals called the move a tragic loss ahead of summer, and resident Shannon Brooks said SF Gate that “has a special place in my heart.”
Refugio State Beach near Santa Barbara, California, is typically known for its stunning surfing, camping and fishing spots, but locals were heartbroken to learn it will be closed for the summer.
Strong storms and torrential rain hit the west coast earlier this year, forcing the beach to close indefinitely.
Brooks described Refugio State Park as “a hidden gem” and is generally less crowded than the tourist trap beaches further south in Santa Barbara.
It’s known for its idyllic surfing, fishing and camping spots, but those who normally enjoy the central West Coast will be forced to look elsewhere this summer.
“I hope Refugio opens its doors in the not-too-distant future, because it is truly a magical place loved by so many people,” Brooks added.
Earlier this year, the region was hit by several winter storms that brought massive rainfall and also closed nearby Gaviota State Park.
While Gaviota reopened after the debris and damage was cleaned up, Refugio has struggled to recover.
That is, the parks department said the failure of the sewer system, used for drainage, “resulted in numerous sinkholes across multiple agency jurisdictions.”
The ‘total failure’ of the beach drainage system occurred after extensive storm damage
Trees were downed and debris scattered on the beach by the weather front
The beach was also known for its ancient palm trees, which were planted over a century ago after being shipped from the Canary Islands.
Images showed palm trees felled due to bad weather.
When news of the fallen trees spread on the Internet, locals shared their anguish and one of them said in instagram his “favorite beach since he was a child will never be the same.”
‘I got married there. “It’s sad to see these iconic trees fall,” said another.
Due to damage to several area beaches and parks, including Gaviota and El Capitan state beaches, California State Parks updated its management plans in a statement.
“The three parks have undergone many changes since the original General Plans were adopted, and the guidance provided in the 1979 plans is now outdated,” the department said.
The beach was also known for its centuries-old palm trees, which were uprooted by storms.
Locals said they were heartbroken to learn their “favorite beach” will be closed for the summer.
“Ongoing damage from severe winter storms, looming sea level rise and other impacts of climate change, aging infrastructure, significant new property acquisition (and) high demand for recreation.”
The department also noted that “the need to protect natural, cultural and recreational resources contributes to the need for updated plans that reflect the current realities of these three park units.”
To clean up beaches, the California Conservation Corps and Caltrans are stepping in to help California State Parks.
“Staff is working their hearts out to get the parks back to a state where we can open them again,” State Parks Channel Coast District planning chief Dena Bellman told Noozhawk.