As is probably quite obvious, my main point on some recent threads is that change creates stressors; it's no wonder why (most) people hate change.
Living in California and engaging in recreational activities subject to significant demand dynamics and usage/access characteristics presents some of the most significant changes taking place anywhere. There's a reason so many people remain in more placid, stable regions like the mid-west, or even their home countries vs dealing with and managing the kinds of challenges associated with the changes taking place in this state.
And, like the big bang, change in California and open space management is not only not ceasing nor reaching a steady state, but is actually increasing. Exponentially, in point of fact; which is why I keep posting this video link:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F-QA2rkpBSY
So, once one comes to grip with the reality of what is occurring, you have a couple of options: (a) decide to get the hell out of Dodge; (b) figure out some kind means of dealing in the margins; (c) try and resist change; or (d) say fvck it and have fun. In case some haven't figured it out by now, I'm firmly in group D.
I can completely understand group A, as have millions of other Californians splitting for the surrounding states/regions. Group B is actually associated somewhat with group D. However, my main issue is with those advocating group C. As in, be careful for what you wish for.
I don't know how many people are exposed to CA state rangers, but down here in the OC district, including Bolsa, HB & San Onofre, the rangers don't even make a pretense anymore of being anything other than LEOs. (I can actually recall a time when state rangers weren't even armed.) Recently, they've gone full "tacticool", with 2-3" lift boots, kevlar, tazer, cuffs, the whole kit and kaboodle. Way more beef than CHPs; almost SWAT. (The beach was rented out last week for a country/western festival, and one ranger squad car was a K-9 unit with a vicious snarling Shepherd in the back.)
If California is the most dynamic state, certain parts of the state itself are even more cutting edge. Perhaps the rangers down here are dealing with urban population pressures, but the bottom line is, what happens first in these zones eventually works it way throughout the state and surrounding regions. So, when the discussion turns to permits, lotteries, and enforcement policies and procedures, it many be helpful to remind yourself that this isn't just some kind of interesting academic discussion, but has very real world implications and impact.