1. Colorado Lagoon Ecosystem Restoration Project
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Second level
Presented to Marine Advisory Commission
February 14, 2019

2. Why the Proposed Project
The open channel and mitigation bank are the final pieces of the Colorado Lagoon restoration plan
Restoration planning began in 2001, sparked by the local community
The first two phases are complete
Full tidal range and circulation necessary to complete the restoration
The mitigation bank is an innovative approach to fund construction
Provides valuable coastal/wetland habitat in an urban environment
Provides educational and public access opportunities

3. Proposed Open Channel Earthen waterway
Restores full tidal regime to Colorado Lagoon
Provides habitat connectivity from Alamitos Bay to Colorado Lagoon
Serves as a model for creative partnerships to fund high-value restoration projects

4. Natural open channel with mix of tidal habitats
Creates valuable subtidal, mudflat and marsh habitats

5. Valuable opportunity in an urban setting
Enhances public perspective of natural coastal habitats
Provides opportunities for passive recreation and education

6. Mitigation Bank Habitat Areas (22.53 acres)
22.5 acres of tidal habitat area created (“established”) and enhanced (“rehabilitated”)
Mix of tidal habitat including 8 acres of new eelgrass
Additional ~1.6 acres of surrounding upland buffer area restored with native vegetation (not counted as Bank credits)

7. Project Update/ Next Steps
USACE has agreed to sign the BEI & sent to IRT
Coastal commission hearing February 8
Consideration by POLB for the purchase of credits
City council review and approval
Finalize design, bid, and award (16 months)
Construction (18-24 months)
Substantially Complete Fall 2022

8. Questions?