I asked Grok, here is how to do it
Proposing a change to archery hunting regulations in California state parks like Cuyamaca Rancho State Park and Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is a complex process that involves navigating state regulations, engaging with regulatory bodies, and building public and stakeholder support. Below, I outline the steps to propose such a change, who to contact, the petition process, and considerations based on available information. I’ll also address whether similar efforts have been attempted and provide feedback on your idea, including challenges and opportunities.
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### **Current Context and Regulations**
Hunting, including archery hunting, is generally prohibited in California State Parks, except in specific areas designated by the State Park and Recreation Commission. According to California State Parks regulations, "loaded firearms and hunting are not allowed in units of the State Parks System," with exceptions for designated recreation areas []. Firearms, bows, and other weapons capable of injuring or killing animals are also restricted unless explicitly permitted []. [](https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=21300)[](https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=21301)
- **Cuyamaca Rancho State Park**: Hunting is explicitly prohibited, as firearms and archery equipment are not allowed [,]. The park’s focus is on preserving natural resources and providing recreational activities like hiking, biking, and camping.[](https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=667)[](https://www.parks.ca.gov/667)
- **Anza-Borrego Desert State Park**: Similarly, firearms and hunting are prohibited throughout the park to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety [,]. The park’s vast size (over 600,000 acres) and sensitive desert ecosystem make hunting a contentious issue [].[](https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=638)[](https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=638&os=ios)[](https://www.california.com/guide-anza-borrego-desert-state-park/)
- **Laguna Mountain Recreation Area**: This area, managed by the U.S. Forest Service (Cleveland National Forest), allows limited hunting, including archery, under federal and state regulations. The Cleveland National Forest permits hunting in accordance with California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) seasons and rules, which differ from state park policies []. This provides a precedent for archery hunting in large open spaces but under different jurisdictional oversight.[](https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g32099-i1827-k8011158-Anza_Borrego_Desert_area-Borrego_Springs_California.html)
There is no direct evidence in the provided references of past petitions specifically targeting archery hunting in Cuyamaca Rancho or Anza-Borrego. However, land use changes, such as the Anza-Borrego Foundation’s efforts to acquire and transfer land to the state park system, indicate that public and nonprofit advocacy can influence park management [,]. These efforts focused on conservation, not hunting, but demonstrate the potential for organized campaigns to affect policy.[](https://naturalhistorywanderings.com/2021/01/06/new-land-acquisition-for-anza-borrego/)[](https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/news/environment/sdut-lucky-park-desert-cuyamaca-purchase-2015dec09-htmlstory.html)
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### **Steps to Propose a Change to Archery Hunting Regulations**
1. **Understand the Regulatory Framework**
- **Authority**: The California Department of Parks and Recreation (State Parks) oversees state park regulations, while the State Park and Recreation Commission approves designations for specific activities, such as hunting in recreation areas []. The CDFW regulates hunting seasons, licenses, and species-specific rules statewide, including in areas where hunting is permitted.[](https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=21300)
- **Key Regulations**: California Code of Regulations (CCR) Title 14, Sections 4305 and 4313, prohibit hunting and possession of weapons in state parks unless explicitly allowed []. Any change would require amending these regulations or designating specific areas within the parks as hunting zones.[](https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=21301)
- **Environmental Considerations**: State parks prioritize ecological preservation. Proposals must address impacts on wildlife, endangered species (e.g., desert bighorn sheep in Anza-Borrego []), and visitor safety.[](https://naturalhistorywanderings.com/2021/01/06/new-land-acquisition-for-anza-borrego/)
2. **Develop a Proposal**
- **Define Scope**: Specify which parks (e.g., Cuyamaca Rancho, Anza-Borrego) and areas within them are suitable for archery hunting. Consider less-trafficked zones to minimize conflicts with hikers, bikers, and equestrians [,].[](https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=667)[](https://maps.roadtrippers.com/us/julian-ca/camping-rv/cuyamaca-rancho-state-park-julian)
- **Justification**: Highlight benefits, such as wildlife management (e.g., controlling deer populations), economic benefits from hunting licenses, and alignment with practices in nearby federal lands like Laguna Mountain. Address safety by proposing archery-only zones, as archery is quieter and has a shorter range than firearms.
- **Mitigate Concerns**: Propose restrictions (e.g., limited seasons, specific permits, designated trails) to protect sensitive ecosystems and ensure visitor safety. Reference the Laguna Mountain model, where hunting is regulated to avoid conflicts [].[](https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g32099-i1827-k8011158-Anza_Borrego_Desert_area-Borrego_Springs_California.html)
3. **Engage Stakeholders**
- **California Department of Parks and Recreation**:
- **Contact**: Reach out to the Colorado Desert District office, which oversees Cuyamaca Rancho and Anza-Borrego [,]. Use the contact form on
www.parks.ca.gov or call the district office (760-767-5311 for Anza-Borrego).[](https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=667)[](https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=638)
- **Process**: Request a meeting to discuss your proposal. State Parks staff can provide guidance on feasibility and regulatory hurdles.
- **State Park and Recreation Commission**:
- **Role**: The commission approves designations for activities like hunting. Submit a formal proposal for their review during public meetings.
- **Contact**: Email
[email protected] or check
www.parks.ca.gov for meeting schedules and submission guidelines.
- **California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW)**:
- **Role**: CDFW would oversee hunting regulations if areas are opened. They can advise on species management and licensing.
- **Contact**: Visit
www.wildlife.ca.gov or call the San Diego regional office (858-467-4201).
- **Nonprofits and Advocacy Groups**:
- Engage organizations like the Anza-Borrego Foundation [,] or the Cuyamaca Rancho State Park Interpretive Association []. These groups have influenced park policy and may support or oppose your proposal based on conservation goals.[](https://www.eastcountymagazine.org/anza-borrego-foundation-obtains-final-link-wildlife-corridor-desert-laguna-mountains)[](https://naturalhistorywanderings.com/2021/01/06/new-land-acquisition-for-anza-borrego/)[](https://www.californiasbestcamping.com/anza_borrego/green_valley.html)
- Contact hunting advocacy groups, such as the California Bowmen Hunters or the National Wild Turkey Federation, for support and expertise.
- **Local Communities**: Engage residents in nearby towns (e.g., Julian, Borrego Springs) to build public support. Address concerns about safety and ecological impacts [].[](https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g32099-i1827-k8011158-Anza_Borrego_Desert_area-Borrego_Springs_California.html)
4. **Petition Process**
- **Formal Petition**: California allows citizens to petition state agencies for regulatory changes under the Administrative Procedure Act (APA). Submit a petition to State Parks or the Office of Administrative Law (OAL) detailing the proposed change, rationale, and supporting evidence.
- **Guidelines**: Visit
www.oal.ca.gov for petition requirements. Include data on wildlife populations, safety protocols, and precedents (e.g., Laguna Mountain).
- **Public Comment**: Regulatory changes require public notice and comment periods. Be prepared to address opposition from environmental groups or park users.
- **Grassroots Petition**: Create a public petition on platforms like Change.org to demonstrate community support. Share it with local hunting clubs, outdoor recreation groups, and social media communities in San Diego County.
- **Example**: While no specific archery hunting petitions are documented, the Anza-Borrego Foundation’s land acquisition campaign [,] shows how public support and funding can drive policy changes. A similar approach could rally hunters and outdoor enthusiasts.[](https://www.eastcountymagazine.org/anza-borrego-foundation-obtains-final-link-wildlife-corridor-desert-laguna-mountains)[](https://naturalhistorywanderings.com/2021/01/06/new-land-acquisition-for-anza-borrego/)
5. **Public Engagement and Advocacy**
- **Community Meetings**: Attend State Park and Recreation Commission meetings or CDFW public hearings to present your idea. Check
www.parks.ca.gov or
www.wildlife.ca.gov for schedules.
- **Media Outreach**: Share your proposal with local media (e.g., San Diego Union-Tribune []) to raise awareness and attract supporters.[](https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/news/environment/sdut-lucky-park-desert-cuyamaca-purchase-2015dec09-htmlstory.html)
- **Coalition Building**: Partner with hunting organizations, local businesses (e.g., outdoor outfitters), and tribal nations (e.g., Kumeyaay communities near Cuyamaca []) to strengthen your case.[](https://joincsp.parks.ca.gov/SiteMap?page_id=23110)
6. **Navigate the Approval Process**
- **Environmental Review**: Proposals affecting state parks require review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Prepare for an environmental impact assessment to evaluate effects on wildlife, vegetation, and visitor experience [].[](https://www.eastcountymagazine.org/anza-borrego-foundation-obtains-final-link-wildlife-corridor-desert-laguna-mountains)
- **Commission Approval**: The State Park and Recreation Commission must approve any designation of hunting areas. Submit a detailed proposal, supported by CDFW input and public feedback.
- **Legislative Support**: For significant changes, seek endorsement from state legislators representing San Diego County (e.g., Assembly or Senate members). They can advocate for your proposal or introduce enabling legislation.
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### **Feedback on Your Idea**
**Opportunities**:
- **Precedent in Nearby Areas**: The allowance of archery hunting in the Laguna Mountain Recreation Area under U.S. Forest Service rules provides a model. Highlighting this could strengthen your case, as it shows regulated hunting can coexist with recreation [].[](https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g32099-i1827-k8011158-Anza_Borrego_Desert_area-Borrego_Springs_California.html)
- **Wildlife Management**: If deer or other game populations are abundant in Cuyamaca or Anza-Borrego, archery hunting could be framed as a tool for ecological balance, appealing to CDFW’s mission.
- **Economic Benefits**: Hunting permits could generate revenue for park maintenance, similar to camping and day-use fees [,].[](https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=667)[](https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=638)
- **Low-Impact Method**: Archery is quieter and safer than firearm hunting, potentially reducing opposition from park users concerned about noise or danger.
**Challenges**:
- **Conservation Priorities**: Both Cuyamaca and Anza-Borrego emphasize wildlife protection and ecological preservation [,]. Proposals must convincingly address impacts on sensitive species, such as desert bighorn sheep or rare plants.[](https://www.eastcountymagazine.org/anza-borrego-foundation-obtains-final-link-wildlife-corridor-desert-laguna-mountains)[](https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=21301)
- **Public Opposition**: Hikers, bikers, and equestrians, who heavily use these parks’ trails [,], may oppose hunting due to safety concerns or ethical objections. Environmental groups like the Anza-Borrego Foundation may also resist [].[](https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=667)[](https://www.california.com/guide-anza-borrego-desert-state-park/)[](https://www.eastcountymagazine.org/anza-borrego-foundation-obtains-final-link-wildlife-corridor-desert-laguna-mountains)
- **Regulatory Hurdles**: Changing state park regulations requires extensive review, public input, and CEQA compliance. The process is time-consuming and faces scrutiny from multiple agencies [].[](https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=21301)
- **Lack of Precedent**: No documented attempts to allow archery hunting in these specific parks exist in the provided references, suggesting limited historical momentum. You may need to pioneer this effort.
**Recommendations**:
- **Start Small**: Propose a pilot program in a less-trafficked area of Cuyamaca Rancho (e.g., East Mesa Fire Road []) with strict regulations (e.g., archery-only, limited permits, off-season hunting). This could test feasibility and build support.[](https://maps.roadtrippers.com/us/julian-ca/camping-rv/cuyamaca-rancho-state-park-julian)
- **Build a Coalition**: Partner with hunting organizations and local stakeholders to create a unified voice. Their expertise and networks can amplify your petition.
- **Leverage Data**: Use CDFW wildlife population data to justify the need for hunting. For example, if deer overpopulation is an issue, present it as a management solution.
- **Address Safety**: Propose clear safety measures, such as designated hunting zones away from trails, mandatory training, and signage to inform non-hunters.
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### **Has It Been Attempted Before?**
There is no direct evidence in the provided references or broader web information of past petitions to allow archery hunting specifically in Cuyamaca Rancho or Anza-Borrego. However:
- **Similar Efforts**: Advocacy for land use changes, such as the Anza-Borrego Foundation’s acquisition of Lucky 5 Ranch to connect parks [,], shows that organized campaigns can influence state park policy. These efforts focused on conservation, not hunting, but provide a blueprint for petitioning.[](https://www.eastcountymagazine.org/anza-borrego-foundation-obtains-final-link-wildlife-corridor-desert-laguna-mountains)[](https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/news/environment/sdut-lucky-park-desert-cuyamaca-purchase-2015dec09-htmlstory.html)
- **Hunting in Other Areas**: The allowance of hunting in state recreation areas (e.g., certain parts of the State Vehicular Recreation Area []) and federal lands like Laguna Mountain suggests that exceptions exist. Studying these cases could inform your strategy.[](https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=21301)
- **Public Input Precedents**: The State Park and Recreation Commission regularly seeks public input on park management []. While not specific to hunting, this process indicates openness to community proposals, provided they align with park goals.[](https://www.sanjuancountywa.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=1764)
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### **Petition Process Specifics**
- **State Agency Petition**:
- Draft a formal petition under the APA, outlining the proposed regulatory change (e.g., amending CCR Title 14 to allow archery hunting in designated zones).
- Submit to State Parks (
www.parks.ca.gov) or OAL (
www.oal.ca.gov). Include scientific data, safety protocols, and public support evidence.
- Expect a response within 30–60 days, followed by a public comment period if the petition is accepted.
- **Grassroots Petition**:
- Use platforms like Change.org or iPetitions to gather signatures. Target hunters, outdoor enthusiasts, and local residents.
- Promote via social media, hunting forums, and local events (e.g., Julian community gatherings []).[](https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g32099-i1827-k8011158-Anza_Borrego_Desert_area-Borrego_Springs_California.html)
- Present the petition to State Parks, CDFW, or the State Park and Recreation Commission to demonstrate public interest.
- **Public Hearings**:
- Attend commission or CDFW meetings to present your case. Prepare a concise presentation with data, maps, and testimonials from supporters.
- Anticipate questions about ecological impacts, safety, and alignment with park missions.
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### **Who to Contact**
- **California Department of Parks and Recreation**:
- Colorado Desert District: 760-767-5311 or
www.parks.ca.gov (contact form).
- State Park and Recreation Commission:
[email protected].
- **California Department of Fish and Wildlife**:
- San Diego Regional Office: 858-467-4201 or
www.wildlife.ca.gov.
- **Local Stakeholders**:
- Anza-Borrego Foundation:
[email protected] [].[](https://www.eastcountymagazine.org/anza-borrego-foundation-obtains-final-link-wildlife-corridor-desert-laguna-mountains)
- Cuyamaca Rancho State Park Interpretive Association:
[email protected] [].[](https://www.californiasbestcamping.com/anza_borrego/green_valley.html)
- Hunting organizations: California Bowmen Hunters (
www.cbhaa.org) or local chapters.
- **Legislators**:
- Find your state assembly member or senator via
www.legislature.ca.gov. For San Diego County, contact representatives for District 75 (Assembly) or District 38 (Senate).
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### **Additional Considerations**
- **Cultural and Tribal Input**: Cuyamaca Rancho has Kumeyaay cultural significance []. Consult with Kumeyaay tribal representatives to ensure your proposal respects their heritage and land rights.[](https://joincsp.parks.ca.gov/SiteMap?page_id=23110)
- **Public Perception**: Frame your proposal as a balanced approach to recreation and conservation. Avoid alienating non-hunters by emphasizing archery’s low impact and regulated nature.
- **Timeline**: Regulatory changes can take 1–3 years due to CEQA reviews, public comment periods, and commission approvals. A grassroots campaign may take 6–12 months to gain traction.
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### **Conclusion**
Proposing archery hunting in Cuyamaca Rancho and Anza-Borrego is ambitious but feasible with a well-organized campaign. Start by developing a detailed proposal, engaging State Parks, CDFW, and local stakeholders, and building public support through petitions and advocacy. The Laguna Mountain precedent strengthens your case, but you’ll need to address ecological, safety, and public concerns. While no specific prior attempts are documented, conservation campaigns like the Anza-Borrego Foundation’s land acquisitions provide a model for success. Contact the Colorado Desert District and hunting organizations to begin, and expect a multi-year process requiring persistence and coalition-building.
