Supervisor Calls for a Maximum Removal of 1.7 Million Cubic Yards, Full Funding for the Arroyo Seco Ecosystem Restoration Study, Watershed Improvements, and an Early Warning System for Similar Flood Control Facilities across the County
LOS ANGELES COUNTY – A motion by Supervisor Kathryn Barger, unanimously approved by the Board of Supervisors, directs county departments to prioritize safety and environmental factors in its Devil’s Gate Dam sediment removal plan.
“This modified approach prioritizes safety, addresses environmental concerns and mitigates disruption for our local residents,” Barger said. “I appreciate the input of our concerned community members, environmental groups and the city of Pasadena who have participated in discussions with me and county departments over many months.”
The Supervisor’s proposal balances the position of community activists and others who argued for the preservation of existing environmental assets with that of flood control engineers who initially requested that the project be slated to remove 2.4 million cubic yards.
The motion further called for coordination with the City of Pasadena on stormwater capture and groundwater replenishment as well as the development of an early warning system to notify downstream residents and businesses of any issues related to similar Los Angeles County Flood Control District facilities.
Finally, the Supervisor directed Public Works to work with the Army Corps of Engineers on the completion of the Arroyo Seco Ecosystem Restoration Study, which will identify opportunities for aquatic and riparian restoration along a 10-mile reach of the Arroyo Seco downstream of Devil’s Gate Dam.