Introduction to Camp Pendleton

Camp Pendleton has long remained the largest undeveloped stretch of the coastline in California, spanning 17 miles of beach and coastal hills. Since World War II, it has proven critical in preparing soldiers for amphibious missions. The bluffs, canyons, and mountainous terrain that comprise the interior of the base have been fertile training ground for those sent to conflicts in the Middle East and beyond.

The Potential for Development

But change may be on the horizon. The United States Department of Defense is considering making a portion of the 125,000-acre base in northwestern San Diego County available for development or lease in what, if successful, would be unprecedented for the military installation. “There’s no place in Southern California like Camp Pendleton when it comes to open space along the coast,” said Bill Fulton, a professor of practice in the Department of Urban Studies and Planning at UC San Diego.

Recent Developments and Visits

In late August, Secretary of the Navy John Phelan conducted an aerial tour of Camp Pendleton and visited with Marines at the base where he had “initial conversations about possible commercial leasing opportunities” by the Department of Defense, Phelan’s spokesperson Courtney Williams told The Times. “These opportunities are being evaluated to maximize value and taxpayer dollars while maintaining mission readiness and security,” Williams said in a statement. “No decisions have been made and further discussions are needed.” Marine recruits rest while the rest of the remaining platoons in their company to catch up at Camp Pendleton in 2020. (Nelvin C. Cepeda/San Diego Union-Tribune via AP)

Environmental Concerns and Conservation Efforts

Discussions over the 83-year-old base come at a time when the Trump administration is more aggressively trying to use public lands to raise money for the federal government and rolling back protections on open space. The administration this month proposed rescinding a Biden-era rule that sought to protect public lands from industrial development and instead prioritizing the use of the land for oil and gas drilling, coal mining, timber production, and livestock grazing. A view of the sign at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton. (Allen J. Schaben/Los Angeles Times)

Balancing National Security and Environmental Preservation

Camp Pendleton has won praise for balancing national security needs with environmental preservation. In 2022, Camp Pendleton was named the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s military conservation partner of the year for its efforts to support the recovery of several species, including the tidewater goby, coastal California gnatcatcher, the arroyo toad, and southern California steelhead. Conservation and management of the least Bell’s vireo, California least tern, and western snowy plover have resulted in significant increases to on-base populations of these species, according to the agency. A marine walks through the Santa Margarita River running through Camp Pendleton, where the arroyo toad can be found. (Christina House / Los Angeles Times)

Past Proposals and Public Reaction

Past efforts to build more on the camp have not been popular with the public. In the mid-1990s, the U.S. Marine Corps put forth a plan to build 128 homes for officers and their families on a 32-acre bluff at San Mateo Point near Trestles Beach, one of the nation’s most famous surfing spots. The California Coastal Commission ultimately rejected the project. Motorists travel the 5 Freeway with military housing at San Mateo Point in the background. (Allen J. Schaben/Los Angeles Times)

Potential Impact on Surrounding Communities

Development on the base would certainly have an effect on Oceanside, city leaders say. Service members and their families frequently travel off the base to surrounding communities to shop and dine out, providing a steady customer supply for local businesses, including those that cater heavily to Marines, such as dry cleaners, tailors, barbershops, and military surplus stores. The base’s regional economic impact is more than $6 billion annually, according to the city. A man takes in the view of Camp Pendleton property. Camp Pendleton has long remained the largest undeveloped stretch of the coastline in California. (Allen J. Schaben/Los Angeles Times)

Conclusion

The potential development of Camp Pendleton marks a significant shift in the use of public lands, particularly in areas previously protected for their environmental and national security value. As discussions continue, it remains to be seen how the balance between economic development, environmental conservation, and national security will be struck. The outcome will have far-reaching implications not only for the local communities surrounding the base but also for the broader principles guiding the use of public lands in the United States.

FAQs

• Q: What is Camp Pendleton?
  • A: Camp Pendleton is a major United States Marine Corps base located in San Diego County, California. It is the largest undeveloped stretch of coastline in Southern California and has been used for military training since World War II.
• Q: Why is the Department of Defense considering development on Camp Pendleton?
  • A: The Department of Defense is exploring options to make portions of the 125,000-acre base available for development or lease to maximize value and taxpayer dollars while maintaining mission readiness and security.
• Q: What kind of development is being considered?
  • A: Details about the specific sites being considered for commercial lease remain unclear. However, past proposals have included residential, commercial, and industrial purposes, as well as energy and water infrastructure projects.
• Q: How might development on Camp Pendleton affect the surrounding communities?
  • A: Development could have a significant impact on local economies, particularly in Oceanside, where service members and their families frequently shop and dine. It could also affect traffic, housing, and the character of the community.
• Q: What are the environmental concerns related to developing Camp Pendleton?
  • A: Camp Pendleton is home to several endangered species and has been recognized for its conservation efforts. Development could potentially threaten these species and the ecosystem, prompting concerns from environmentalists and conservation groups.