How will the clearing take place and how will this affect me?
The Ventura County Human Services Agency, in coordination with local non-profits, has already begun outreach efforts to assist people living in the river bottom; campers that remain are being notified of the changes. Permanent “No Trespassing” signs are posted in the river and formal trespass noticing will begin to be posted on all the camps in August, giving campers 72-hour notice to vacate the Ventura River. Social service providers will be available during illegal encampment removal for humanitarian assistance. The community and surrounding area may be affected by the shift that could occur from the removal of illegal encampments. These conditions may be intermittent, short-term or long-term.


During the trash and arundo removal from the river bed, the County and social service providers have made every effort to be sensitive to the needs of those who are camping there and who may not be aware of resources to help them end their homelessness. Social service providers seek to assist individuals to find appropriate housing in Ventura, or unite them with family or friends if they desire, and get them the medical attention and other services they need to mitigate the impact on our community. While it is not illegal to be homeless, it is illegal to camp on public or private property without written permission.

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1. What is happening in the Ventura River?
2. Why is this happening and why now?
3. When will the illegal camp removal begin?
4. How will the clearing take place and how will this affect me?
5. Who will dismantle the illegal camps?
6. Where will the people who live in the river bottom go?
7. How will the removal of illegal camps be sustained or reinforced?
8. Who made the decision to remove the camps?
9. Who owns the property in and around the Ventura River?
10. What can I do to help?