Crews will be performing annual maintenance work on the San Lorenzo River levee in Santa Cruz through mid-October “to ensure continued protection against flooding.”
The city called the levee “a critical piece of infrastructure in our community” in announcing the work Thursday and said the United States Army Corps of Engineers requires annual maintenance, which will include vegetation management, structural inspections and any necessary repairs. Ecological Concerns Inc. will carry out this work for the second year in a row.
“We are committed to maintaining the integrity of the San Lorenzo River Levee while also being mindful of the environmental and community values that are so important to Santa Cruz,” said Nathan Nguyen, public works director. “Our work with Ecological Concerns, Inc. last year was a success, and we look forward to another smooth maintenance season.”
Laurie Egan, executive director of the Coastal Watershed Council, said that “maintaining the levee is a crucial component of flood prevention, and protecting river habitat is crucial for the plants and animals that rely on the river, including endangered species.”
“The City’s commitment to supporting the diverse needs of this urban river is vital to the health of our community and watershed,” she said.
The city said it has obtained the necessary California Department of Fish and Wildlife permits to carry out the work and will use “the utmost care for the habitat along the levee while also meeting safety standards.” More information on the levee maintenance is available on the city’s website.
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