The Spark of Tradition vs. The Tide of Conservation: Fourth of July Fireworks Under Threat

Conserving our natural resources — specifically waterways and marine life — is essential to a healthful environment for all. There are some, however, who feel that one of our most honored traditions, fireworks celebrations, are in danger of extinction due to regulation overreach from environmental agencies such as the California Coastal Commission (CCC).   One of those individuals is Sandy Purdon, President and Executive Producer of H.P. Purdon & Company, Inc., and founder of the Big Bay Boom. In an interview with The Log, Purdon explained how increasingly stringent conditions imposed by the CCC are reshaping the future of pyrotechnic events held along the coastline. His fear is that the Fourth of July fireworks tradition will become a thing of the past, especially along the Southern California coast, where displays have long served as beloved community cornerstones.   “The requirements for our permits now include a long list of obligations that cost money or impact the show itself,” Purdon said. “We’re required to reduce the size, type, and weight of the fireworks; install netting on barges; deploy safety boats to collect debris; and conduct cleanups both onshore and underwater — up to 45 feet below where the barges are stationed.”   Those tasks are just part...