Project Threatens Happy Camp Park

As an avid runner, there is nothing more inspiring than the thought of a five-mile run. That may be hard for a non-runner to understand.

However, the place I consider my favorite loop is somewhere that everyone can appreciate. Whether you are hiking over one of the many trails, mountain-bike riding or horseback riding, Happy Camp is a place for all. Yet it goes virtually unknown to most. Not surprising, considering that you will not see this park published in any listing of county parks, even though it is probably the most pristine, covering more than 3,700 acres, all at the doorstep of Moorpark.

If you do find this paradise, you will see maps showing trails, but it may be difficult to determine the park boundaries; none are to scale. The city of Moorpark and Messenger Investment Co. want to change all that. They are proposing to tattoo much of the area adjacent to the park with thousands of homes. In addition, they want to crisscross the park with roadways to facilitate this massive development and others. Not only will the park be severely impacted, much of the surrounding area, which provides a scenic backdrop to our city, would forever be erased.

Over the many years and the many miles logged, I have never tired of the beauty or considered Happy Camp as ordinary. You never know what you’ll encounter, perhaps a deer, coyote or bobcat; even bears and mountain lions have been known to make appearances. In my cross-country runs, I have met many people who have just discovered the park. I am always willing to offer directions or share my experiences of the wildlife that abounds. The look of surprise always turns sour as they hear of the proposed development.

This does not have to be Happy Camp’s swan song. Moorpark does not need to expand its city limits. Please discover Happy Camp and then discover Moorpark City Hall and let your voice be heard before it’s too late. As for me, I’ve gotta run for now.

TIMOTHY P. KELLY

Moorpark