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Environmental Action Alert: Largest unprotected dune system in central California threatened. [Updated: 4/25/06]

Help Protect Tomales Dunes in Marin County!

Tomales Dunes, located at the tip of Tomales Bay in Marin County, is the largest unprotected dune system in central California. Tomales Dunes is an extraordinary site with at least 14 rare, threatened, or endangered species; one of only eight sites where the Pacific Golden Plover winters; home to one of the richest seasonal dune wetlands in central California; and continues to have some true mobile dunes – un-vegetated and constantly shifting dunes. While most of California’s dunes have been lost to development, Tomales Dunes continues to survive. Yet these dunes are currently being threatened by a proposed plan which would damage the dunes and surrounding areas.

Tomales Dunes is also home to the largest RV campground on the California coast, Lawson’s Landing, which has 233 permanent RV’s and up to 1000 RV’s for overnight camping. The owners of Lawson’s Landing have recently asked for the approval of a ‘Master Pan’ for this RV site, out of pressure to bring the property into compliance with State and County laws. This ‘Master Plan’ proposes to unleash a new septic leach field in the threatened mobile dunes and stabilize them by some form of planting. Water quality, wetlands, native species, and the dunes themselves would subsequently be damaged.

Write Your Letter Today! Each letter represents the concerns of hundreds of voters. Send your letter today! Please follow these guidelines: Hand written letters are best. State clearly what action you want. Share a personal reason or experience. Include your address on the letter and envelope Write directly to: Steve Thompson, Planning Commission Chair C/O Environmental Action Committee of West Marin PO Box 609 Point Reyes Station, CA 94965

Dear Commission Chair Thompson, As the largest unprotected dune system in central California, Tomales Dunes is an extraordinary site which supports at least 14 listed species. As you consider the Lawson's Landing Master Plan, Coastal Permit and Tidelands Permit, I urge you to safeguard this valuable habitat from over-exploitation and ecological degradation. Tomales Dunes is one of California's coastal treasures. Please protect it! Thank You [Sign with Printed Name and Address]