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The Dump (AKA Mussel Rock)
Unfortunately, blowbacks are a common (but preventable -- see article, below) occurrence at The Dump. Four paraglider pilots have died at The Dump due to electrocution (being blown back into the power lines), drowning and crashes. Many very experienced local pilots, as well as new and visiting pilots, have had serious accidents at this site. Because The Dump is the only unregulated site in the Bay Area, it is the site most frequently used by inexperienced and visiting pilots. Paragliding at The Dump is not officially sanctioned, but it is currently allowed. The future of this site depends upon its safety record. We strongly recommend that you get a site intro before flying at The Dump. The BAPA safety director, Phil Neri (650.737.7926), is at The Dump almost every soarable day. Please call him ahead of time and arrange a site intro if you have never flown at The Dump. To find out the wind direction, velocity and temperature at Fort Funston (near The Dump), call 415.333.0100 or 415.584.9891.
BAPA Site Guide for The Dump (Required Reading!) Avoiding Blowbacks at The Dump Ultra Low Flight (Excellent video -techniques for flying low sand dunes, with 3D graphics to help explain complex airflow concepts) |
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Galvin |
Because
of its easy access, the Dump is one of the
most popular Bay Area flying sites. It is also one of our most complex sites.
Although you can experience long, relaxing flights, enjoying the sea breezes and
beautiful ocean vistas, you have to be especially cautious about changing wind strength
and direction, rotors, high tides and traffic from other paragliders, hangliders,
radio controlled planes and general aviation.
The
Local
"911" Emergency Number is 650.355.4151.
USHPA Advanced Paragliding
Instructor & Observer