Don’t Cut Off Access to Santa Cruz Island

* I am somewhat bothered by the National Park Service’s strong-arm handling of the jointly owned east end of Santa Cruz Island with the Gherini family. Last year I used Island Adventures to visit Santa Cruz Island. I really enjoyed myself and my stay there.

I found no human destruction to that part of the island. Sure, there are a lot of sheep, and a lot of sheep paths. Is this what the Park Service is so upset about? If so, let’s deal with the problem and not condemn Island Adventures for providing such a great service.

Without the availability of Island Adventures, I would never have gone to Santa Cruz Island and spent any nights there. I’m sure this would go for the vast majority of users like me. Yes, there are the adventurous types who backpack and rough it for several days, but I don’t backpack. How else would I be able to enjoy the hiking, the caves, secluded beaches and the serenity?

We’re not talking of hundreds or thousands of people, only 12 at a time. I do not think it is right that the Channel Islands should be enjoyed only by backpackers.

RAY BENNY

Oak View