A program to protect the breeding area for a threatened species of bird has led to the partial closure of some Central Coast beaches.
Vandenberg Air Force Base has shut down sections of Surf, Wall and Minuteman beaches. The closures are to keep people, dogs, and horses from venturing into breeding grounds for Western Snowy Plovers.
The tiny birds nest on the sand just inland of the surf. The partial beach closures are in effect from March 1st through September 30th. If people or animals repeatedly violate the partial closures, the Air Force will completely close the beaches where the problems occurred.
