EDC is taking action to save an exceptional coastal habitat in Ventura County.
The Ormond Beach wetlands, located in the City of Oxnard between the Port of Hueneme and the Point Mugu Naval Base, support many rare plants and hundreds of species of migratory birds, including the endangered California least tern and Western snowy plover. Like many of our dwindling Southern California wetlands, this area has been severely degraded and fragmented by human development. For example, the Halaco Engineering Company operated a secondary metal smelter at Ormond Beach for 40 years, creating such toxic pollution that the site is now a U.S. EPA Superfund Site.
In spite of these impacts, the Ormond Beach wetlands are still renowned among scientists and nature lovers. The California State Coastal Conservancy is spearheading efforts to permanently protect habitat and expand and restore the wetlands. If restoration can be achieved, the Ormond Beach wetland area could truly stand out among Southern California wetlands as a fully-functioning wetland, providing habitat for native species and improving migratory connections for species along the California coast. It can also be a destination for the local community and out-of-town visitors with interpretive facilities, a trail network, boardwalks and wildlife overlooks.
However, decisions expected to be made soon by the City of Oxnard about the Ormond Beach Specific Plan and the Oxnard 2030 General Plan could directly impact this vision. If approved as proposed, these Plans would further degrade the wetlands and significantly interfere with efforts to restore and expand the wetland area. EDC represents the Los Padres Sierra Club and the Environmental Coalition of Ventura County regarding these Plans. The City of Oxnard is expected to make a final decision about these Plans in 2010. Read here for more details about the Ormond Beach Specific Plan. Check here for more information about the Oxnard 2030 General Plan.
EDC will continue working on behalf of our clients and with our other Ventura County partners to protect and restore the Ormond Beach wetlands. |
