Garberville’s Town Square blocked off to public

GARBERVILLE, CA., 9/13/16 – The town square in Garberville is now surrounded by an orange plastic fence, which went up last week, restricting public access from the area. The square, which is privately owned, will continue to be open for the farmers’ market and other pre-planned events, but will otherwise be closed to visitors and local residents.

Such public spaces are increasingly contested throughout Humboldt and Mendocino, particularly as seasonal cannabis workers arrive in greater numbers and as light-deps extend the trimming season. The presence of these workers, travelers, and the local homeless population has resulted in ongoing debates in communities through the Emerald Triangle — but how will these conflicts impact the availability of public spaces for everyone? Kym Kemp reports on the situation in Garberville, where the fence went up Thursday, Sept. 8: