The East Bay Regional Park District (EBRPD) is a special district operating in Alameda County and Contra Costa County, California, within the East Bay area of the San Francisco Bay Area. It maintains and operates a system of regional parks which is the largest urban regional park district in the United States. For all intents and purposes, this organization manages the available natural open spaces across the entire region. In Dec 2015, with no public comment, the board of the district approved a universal ban on the operation of drones from any park managed property. The stated reason for this was risk to aircraft and potential impact to wildlife, specifically birds.
As you may know if you have read some of my other posts on this site, I am an avid drone operator and aerial photographer that lives and at one time was able to use these wonderful tools for to capture the beautiful and unique land and waterscapes found here. Since this ordinance was passed, drone use across general region is almost impossible. Unless operating from private property, there is essentially no accessible area available to operate from. I have basically been forced to abandon the use of these tools.
While I understand the concerns raised and support appropriately considered and vetted guidelines. Unrestricted use could create a risk in public spaces, and consideration should be given to sensitive wildlife, bird nesting areas and other wildlife concerns. However, a complete ban restricts access to and the fair use of public lands that we support with our tax dollars. Drones, when operated in accordance with FAA guidelines and in a responsible manner do not pose a unique or special risk such that a complete ban is appropriate or justified. However, letters and requests for review of the policy to the park district have gone unanswered.
I would respectfully ask that if there are other like minded drone enthusiasts out their, especially from this area, that they help me express my concerns to the board and advocate a more inclusive and responsible policy.
As you may know if you have read some of my other posts on this site, I am an avid drone operator and aerial photographer that lives and at one time was able to use these wonderful tools for to capture the beautiful and unique land and waterscapes found here. Since this ordinance was passed, drone use across general region is almost impossible. Unless operating from private property, there is essentially no accessible area available to operate from. I have basically been forced to abandon the use of these tools.
While I understand the concerns raised and support appropriately considered and vetted guidelines. Unrestricted use could create a risk in public spaces, and consideration should be given to sensitive wildlife, bird nesting areas and other wildlife concerns. However, a complete ban restricts access to and the fair use of public lands that we support with our tax dollars. Drones, when operated in accordance with FAA guidelines and in a responsible manner do not pose a unique or special risk such that a complete ban is appropriate or justified. However, letters and requests for review of the policy to the park district have gone unanswered.
I would respectfully ask that if there are other like minded drone enthusiasts out their, especially from this area, that they help me express my concerns to the board and advocate a more inclusive and responsible policy.