News Release

Closure of the Main Ranch Corrals at Santa Rosa Island

Date: March 14, 2019
Contact: Yvonne Menard, 805-658-5725

Preliminary results from recent environmental testing in the corral area of the main ranch on Santa Rosa Island found contaminated soils. Consequently, the park is closing this area to public access until further notice.

The testing was conducted to assess risks associated with historical fuel storage tanks and other features in this area. Contaminants included residues of petroleum, metal, and chemical pesticides.

Additional testing is required to determine the extent of soil contamination and to assess the potential level of risk to human and ecological health.

“Out of an abundance of caution, we have closed this small section of the main ranch area on Santa Rosa Island,” said Channel Islands National Park Superintendent Ethan McKinley. “The closure is intended to reduce any potential exposure to the hazardous substances that were found in the soil while we work on next steps.”

The closure to public access includes an approximate two acre area of the main ranch in the corrals near the barns. The closure is expected to continue throughout the visitor season which starts with Island Packers boat trips to Santa Rosa Island this weekend and extends through this fall.