Debating the Merits of Bolsa Chica Revamp

Re “$100-Million Bolsa Chica Plan OKd,” Jan. 31:

The California State Lands Commission deserves applause for its decision on the restoration of the Bolsa Chica wetlands. The coastal wetlands have been and always will be an important part of the Southern California ecosystem. With the majority of our wetlands having been destroyed and developed, this is one last chance to preserve this unique habitat, home to a significant number of species.

Many people realize the importance and natural beauty of the wetlands. However, many do not. It is our responsibility to preserve the few remaining coastal habitats in Southern California. Homes continue to be built, but at least there will be some wetlands preserved for the future generations to enjoy.

Chase Wiles

Huntington Beach

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One hundred million dollars to “restore” the wetlands? I nearly choked on my morning doughnut when I read that. To this admittedly untrained eye, it already is a wetland. I see land there, and it sure seems wet. Yes, I’m aware that Bolsa Chica currently doesn’t receive benefits of tidal flow, and there’s the legacy of former oil drilling, etc. But is this our society’s best use of $100 million?

Schooling in our state is by most accounts pretty miserable, yet we’re going to spend $100 million on a project that will bring marginal benefits, at best, to a small sliver of our environment. Are our priorities in order?

Jim DeBeau

Irvine

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It’s important to note that the money is not coming from our taxes, and only marginally involves existing reserves. The acquisition and restoration for this long-overdue project is being financed with mitigation fees paid by the ports of Long Beach and Los Angeles.

Anyone who has visited Bolsa Chica lately will also note that none of that money, nor apparently any other, is being used to maintain or repair facilities. Nearly every component of the original restoration is in sad disrepair. The wonderful trail around the inner bay is eroded and, in places, undermined. The only footbridge over a tidal bay in Southern California has termites. The parking lots were last resurfaced more than 10 years ago. Interpretive signs are weathered and illegible.

The California Department of Fish and Game is entrusted to care for the reserve. As the responsible agency they must act soon or it will be beyond repair.

Phil Smith

Huntington Beach