Save Our Fireworks
Imagine a Fourth of July on the San Diego waterfront with no fireworks at all — or the much-anticipated annual holiday boat parade on San Diego Bay without a single starburst in the sky above. You can stop imagining: It just might happen next year.

Because of aggressive legal maneuvers by the Coastal Environmental Rights Foundation and San Diego Coastkeeper, the San Diego Regional Water Quality Control Board has announced it will enact strict environmental regulations for future on-the-water fireworks displays, requiring fireworks show organizers to obtain permits and pay for extensive water testing — estimated to cost more than $25,000 — after each fireworks show.

Never mind that there is no conclusive scientific evidence that fireworks cause any negative environmental effects in local waters. SeaWorld has been performing its own water tests for years, and its studies show no appreciable residue from more than 150 over-water displays.
Most of the local shows operate on a shoestring budget. They are community shows, not commercial operations; and some raise funds for local charities. Imposing high permit fees and expensive water testing requirements could effectively kill these waterfront fireworks shows.

The Water Quality Control Board had originally planned to adopt the new fireworks regulations effective Nov. 10 and begin enforcing those requirements beginning Feb. 18, 2011. Fortunately, because of appeals from the organizers of several fireworks shows for more time to review and comment on the order, the board has delayed implementation of the new fireworks regulations.

Since a new implementation date is expected to be announced sometime soon, now is the time for boaters to make our voices heard. If you want waterfront fireworks to continue, as they have for decades, contact the board — and your elected city and state representatives.