A ‘New Dawn’ for Bolsa Chica

For 20 years Amigos de Bolsa Chica has led the fight to save, acquire for the public, and restore the Bolsa Chica Wetlands.

In 1988 there was a marina plan for the lowlands and only 300 acres of partially restored wetlands in public ownership. Today there is not only a wetlands plan and the potential for 1,205 acres of wetlands to be controlled by the public but also funds for oil cleanup and restoration.

If current negotiations are successful, over 700 homes proposed to be built on the lowlands and wetlands will be eliminated. The ports of Long Beach and Los Angeles will provide $67 million for acquisition and restoration. The landowner, Koll Real Estate Group, and the oil operator, Cal Resources, will spend a minimum of $5 million in oil cleanup. Koll has accepted a selling price for their 880 acres which is below market value.

The Amigos are confident that the 10 federal and state agencies involved in this process will bring the negotiations with Koll and the oil companies to a successful settlement that will protect the state from major liability.

Organizations, individuals and elected officials that have reviewed the facts fully support the acquisition of 880 acres of wetlands and the acceptance of the 24.5 acres donated by Metropolitan Water District (being held by the Bolsa Chica Land Trust).

This is a major first step . . . a “new dawn” for the Bolsa Chica.

TOM LIVENGOOD

President

Amigos de Bolsa Chica

Huntington Beach