Overview

The South Los Cerritos Wetlands Restoration project has officially commenced, marking a significant milestone after decades of advocacy. This initiative aims to rehabilitate and open over 100 acres of land for public access, providing an important space for education and community engagement.

On Friday morning, members of the Los Cerritos Wetlands Authority (LCWA), along with city and state officials, gathered to celebrate the groundbreaking of this long-anticipated project. The event featured various stakeholders, including funders and wildlife officials, who have played a role in bringing this vision to fruition.

Key details

  • The project broke ground on a Friday morning.
  • It aims to restore and open more than 100 acres of wetlands to the public.
  • Members of the LCWA board were present at the groundbreaking ceremony.
  • City and state officials attended the event to celebrate the project launch.
  • Attendees included funders, members of a Tribal Advisory Group, and wildlife officials.
  • Visitors participated by placing puzzle pieces on a board illustrating the project's transformation.
  • LCWA Chair and Councilmember Kristina Duggan emphasized the project's significance for open space and education.
  • Duggan credited the state coastal conservancy for its two decades of work leading to the project's first phase.
  • The initial phase will focus on the western part of the wetlands, including the western tidal swamp.
  • A community hub and gathering place will be created as part of this phase.
  • The hub will serve as an educational space for residents to learn about nature.
  • Seal Beach City Councilmember Joe Kalmick expressed gratitude to partners and funders for facilitating access to the wetlands for Seal Beach residents.

Context

The Los Cerritos Wetlands Restoration Project has been a goal for advocates for many years, with the recent groundbreaking symbolizing a culmination of efforts to enhance local natural spaces and promote community involvement.

What happens next

The first phase of the restoration will commence with work on the western tidal swamp, alongside the establishment of a community hub designed to educate residents and provide access to tribal groups.

What we don't know yet

Details about specific timelines for project completion and the full scope of future phases are not confirmed.