Channel Islands National Park has announced modifications in operations to implement the latest health and safety measures in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Earlier this week, the park’s mainland visitors center at the Ventura Harbor was closed until further notice. The five remote islands that comprise the national park remain open for public visitation, though current access is only via private vessel, said Yvonne Menard, park spokeswoman.
The park has been implementing the latest federal, state and local health guidelines, including promoting social distancing, Ms. Menard said.
Island Packers, which conducts transportation to and from the islands, has announced a two-week halt to their public transportation services as a result of the coronavirus outbreak. The cancellation in boat services includes all landing and non-landing trips.
Though in-person visits have been limited, virtual visits to the park are available via webcam at Channel Islands Live, where you can experience the kelp forest. To view the webcam and other popular sites, visit explore.org/livecams.
Park officials will notify the public when full operations are set to resume through its website and social media channels. For more information, visit www.nps.gov/coronavirus.
email: mwhite@newspress.com
