Oil company lawsuit could limit access to new Ventura preserve. Here's why
Oil companies Aera Energy and Chevron are suing the Ventura Land Trust to limit public access to the newly opened Ventura Hills Nature Preserve, citing safety concerns and easement rights.Summary
Aera Energy LLC and Chevron U.S.A. have filed a lawsuit against the Ventura Land Trust and the city of Ventura to limit public access to the recently opened Ventura Hills Nature Preserve. The oil companies argue that public use of Hall Canyon Road interferes with their longstanding easement rights and poses safety risks. The land trust, however, contends that their easement is nonexclusive and that they have implemented necessary safety measures. A judge previously denied a temporary restraining order, but a hearing on a preliminary injunction is scheduled for May 12. The preserve, which spans 1,645 acres, was purchased by the land trust in 2020 and officially opened in March. The lawsuit threatens to effectively close the preserve if the court grants the injunction.
(Source：Vc Star)