It’s Time to Solve Beach Problem

For many years the Laguna Beach chapter of the Surfrider Foundation (an international, nonprofit, environmental organization with 30 domestic grass-roots chapters dedicated to the preservation and enhancement of the world’s oceans, waves and beaches) has been trying to urge the powers that be to find a solution to the pollution and consequential health risks caused by the Aliso Creek runoff onto Aliso Beach.

However, the water-testing data indicating high bacterial counts, testimony of those who have become sick after surfing or swimming near the creek mouth or complaints from the surrounding homeowners of the stench of the tainted runoff have not prompted the city of Laguna Beach, Aliso Water Management Agency or the others responsible to solve this persistent health hazard.

Yes, there have been numerous meetings, studies and a variety of ideas on how to solve the problem, but absolutely no action.

As a native of Laguna Beach, I am saddened by the condition of California’s beaches, as well as the priorities of our elected officials. One would think that at the very least, the city of Laguna Beach, world-renowned for its coastline and ranked 207th of the richest communities, would make this problem a top priority. Unfortunately, this is not so.

The degradation of our coastal zone affects much more than just making a few surfers sick. It places the health and safety of our coastal residents and coastal tourists in jeopardy. This reason alone does not seem to elevate this problem to top priority status.

What will it take before this issue is taken seriously? A severe decline in coastal tourism revenue? A few fatalities linked to surfing or swimming in the contaminated water?

MICHELLE C. KREMER

Environmental affairs director

Surfrider Foundation

San Clemente