South County Slates Watersheds Hearing
Federal officials are scheduled to hold a meeting tonight to learn about the public’s environmental concerns in the San Juan Creek and western San Mateo Creek watersheds in South Orange County.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will use the comments to prepare environmental documents about development, infrastructure, aquatic restoration and a reserve program in the study area, which is mostly owned by Rancho Mission Viejo.
The final result--a “special-area management plan”--is intended to simplify the wetlands permit process under the Clean Water Act, and to balance growth and conservation.
About 25,000 acres of the ranch are used for cattle, agriculture and mineral extraction. But, within a few years, the landowning family is expected to begin planning the future of the ranch--a mix of permanent preservation, restoration and development. Some cattle operations will also remain on the 119-year-old ranch.
The meeting will start at 6 p.m. in the San Juan Capistrano Community Center, 25925 Camino del Avion.
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