Imperial Sand Dunes Season Kicks Off

Source: Dunes season kicks-off

This year, the Bureau of Land Management expects 1.7 million people will come to the Imperial Sand Dunes.
170-thousand of those are expected to vacation here Thanksgiving weekend.


It's an important tool for our local economy. ATV riding is an expensive sport ... demanding those who use the dunes to spend money on quads or OHV's, gas, groceries and often RV's.

These expenses bring in 200 to 300 million dollars each year.

However a sinking economy will likely put a damper on that number this year.

The last few years have seen a 20-to-30 percent drop in these vacationers.

That means less money for the local economy and the BLM, which is also making tough cuts.
You may notice some roads aren't as well kept this year, including Wash Road in the Glamis Dunes.
There will also be less rescue workers on hand since there are less people at the dunes and not as much money coming in.

However, you can still expect to see 160 law enforcement personnel, paramedics and other emergency workers at the dunes this weekend.

However, BLM officials say staying safe is still more important than ever.

BLM urges wear a helmet, buckle up, don't drink and drive and don't speed.

The agency also urges to watch out for carbon monoxide poisoning, and not to grill or use gas inside.
Children ages 6-16 must take an ATV safety class before getting on an OHV. There will be classes offered November 25-27 at nine in the morning in Glamis and Buttercup. It's free for California kids and $55 for children from Arizona.

BLM will be on the lookout for speeders and anyone driving dangerously.

They're hoping it will be a safe and fun holiday weekend.