The Illia Dunes re-opened Monday after closing early last week due to environmental and safety concerns, according to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Volunteers from WSU’s Center for Civic Engagement and ASWSU joined the Corps’ Natural Resources Management staff Monday morning to clean the beach and surrounding area. After a safety inspection, the Dunes re-opened.

Corps staff will monitor visitors’ use of the Dunes in an effort to prevent future health and environmental risks. In a news release, Corps officials asked that beachgoers enjoy their visit without breaking any laws, which will ensure future recreational use of the Dunes.

Local law enforcement and Corps staff will patrol the area, and they ask all visitors to remember the following rules:

Illia Dunes parking is restricted to two nearby Corps parking lots, which hold a total of 120 cars. No public parking is allowed on the adjacent Almota Ferry road.

Those who travel in buses must contact the Lower Granite Dam at least 24 hours in advance for crossing authorization.

Although alcohol consumption is not banned now, the Corps has the option of banning alcohol at any time. Any drug is prohibited on federal land, even if state law allows it.

Permit applications are required for any special events at the Dunes – the natural resource management staff usually takes 30 days to review the applications.

Sound equipment that will “unreasonably annoy” other visitors is prohibited.

Anyone who disrupts the sight or the safety of another person will be asked to leave.

No glass is permitted at the Dunes, and Corps staff asks that visitors use the on-sight garbage receptacles, and remove all trash before leaving.

More information can be found online at the Corps of Engineers, Walla Walla District’s website.