California State Parks Accused of Deception, Law Breaking, and Dodging Responsibilities

Geologist Will Harris claims State Parks executives have violated civil service laws and the California Constitution by denying Oceano Dunes and the south county community a proper District Superintendent

Jan. 31, 2026 at 11:31pm

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A geologist who previously worked as a consultant for California State Parks has accused the agency's executives, including Chief Deputy Director Liz McGuirk and Deputy Director Sarah Miggins, of perpetrating fraud, suppressing scientific findings, and violating civil service laws by failing to hire a permanent district superintendent for Oceano Dunes State Park for the past 9 years. The geologist, Will Harris, claims the state has spent over $25 million to unnaturally cover and close off more than 740 acres of the park's recreational lands based on false claims by the San Luis Obispo County Air Pollution Control District about the source of dust pollution on the Nipomo Mesa.

Why it matters

This case highlights ongoing tensions between California State Parks, local communities, and regulatory agencies over the management of Oceano Dunes State Park and the use of off-highway vehicles. It raises questions about government transparency, accountability, and the role of science in policymaking, as well as the state's commitment to providing local representation and advocacy for its parks.

The details

Harris claims that the San Luis Obispo County Air Pollution Control District (APCD) made false claims about the source and health impacts of dust pollution on the Nipomo Mesa, and that he was able to prove through scientific research that only 14% of the particulate pollution came from the Oceano Dunes OHV park, which is located 2 miles away. However, Harris says that despite having this evidence, California State Parks has followed the APCD's orders, spending over $25 million to cover and close off more than 740 acres of the park's recreational lands. Harris also alleges that State Parks executives have violated civil service laws by failing to hire a permanent district superintendent for Oceano Dunes for the past 9 years, instead rotating 'acting' superintendents who lack independence and cannot effectively advocate for the local community.

  • Since 2017, California State Parks has not hired a permanent district superintendent for Oceano Dunes State Park.
  • From 2005 to 2022, California State Parks contracted Will Harris to provide geological consulting services and serve as a subject matter expert regarding geological processes at Oceano Dunes.

The players

Liz McGuirk

Chief Deputy Director of California State Parks.

Sarah Miggins

Deputy Director of California State Parks.

Will Harris

A geologist who previously worked as a consultant for California State Parks, providing geological expertise regarding Oceano Dunes State Park from 2005 to 2022.

San Luis Obispo County Air Pollution Control District (APCD)

A local regulatory agency that Harris claims made false claims about the source and health impacts of dust pollution on the Nipomo Mesa.

Oceano Dunes State Park

A California state park located in San Luis Obispo County that has been at the center of disputes over off-highway vehicle use and dust pollution.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.