District Attorney's Office Settles Environmental Enforcement Action Protecting Pismo Flower
Author: District Attorney
Date: 1/15/2025 5:17 PM
District Attorney Dan Dow announced today that his office has successfully settled an environmental enforcement action against property owners concerning damage to one of the few habitat areas of the rare Pismo Clarkia plant. The settlement addresses the unauthorized grading activities that took place on private property located off Oak Park Boulevard near Arroyo Grande and Pismo.
According to the civil lawsuit, the property owners in question conducted grading operations without first obtaining the necessary grading permit or incidental take permit. These actions threatened the Pismo Clarkia, a plant species of significant ecological importance that is found in only approximately 24 locations worldwide, all within San Luis Obispo County.
As part of the settlement, the property owners have agreed to an injunction that prohibits them from violating grading laws and other Fish and Game Code laws in the future. Additionally, they will pay $165,000 in civil penalties and costs. The civil penalties will be earmarked to support the continued enforcement of environmental laws within San Luis Obispo County.
District Attorney Dan Dow emphasized the importance of this case, stating, "Protecting our environment and preserving our natural resources is a top priority for our office. The Pismo Clarkia is a unique treasure of San Luis Obispo County, and we must ensure its survival for future generations. This settlement sends a clear message that our office will vigorously enforce environmental laws and hold property owners and developers accountable to obtaining the requisite permits prior to doing the work."
The Pismo Clarkia (Clarkia speciosa ssp. immaculata) is listed as endangered under both the California Endangered Species Act and the federal Endangered Species Act. Its extremely limited range makes it particularly vulnerable to habitat loss and disturbance.
This case underscores the critical importance of obtaining proper permits before undertaking any grading or construction activities, especially in areas that may contain sensitive species or habitats. The District Attorney's Office is committed to working with property owners, environmental agencies, and the community to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and the protection of San Luis Obispo County's unique natural heritage.
Preserving our natural environment and adhering to environmental laws is a shared responsibility. Property owners are urged to consult with relevant authorities and obtain all necessary permits before initiating any land-altering activities.
For more information about environmental regulations and permitting requirements in San Luis Obispo County, please contact the County Planning and Building Department and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. The case was investigated by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, the US Fish and Wildlife Service, the County Planning and Building Department, and the District Attorney’s Bureau of Investigation. The case was prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Ken Jorgensen.
Click here for a copy of the civil complaint and the stipulated final judgment. To report suspected violations of our environmental laws call your local Police Department or, if within the unincorporated areas of the county, the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office at (805) 781-4550. You may also find assistance at San Luis Obispo County Environmental Health Services and California Department of Fish & Wildlife.
Please contact Assistant District Attorney Eric J. Dobroth at 805.781.5819 with any questions.
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