The Army Corps of Engineers is responding to local community efforts to explore recreational opportunities in and along the Los Angeles River.
The Los Angeles Conservation Corps has come to the Corps with a proposal to implement a pilot program for kayaking and canoeing along an approximate 2-mile stretch of the L.A. River within the boundaries of the Sepulveda Flood Control Basin.
Since safety remains our number one priority, the Corps must take all necessary steps to insure that proponents of the pilot non-motorized boating program address safety aspects and the concerns for human health associated with this effort.
"We're working earnestly to evaluate the safety, environmental and other public interest concerns to be as responsive as possible to the Conservation Corps' request," said Col. Mark Toy, Los Angeles District Commander.
The pilot program would be limited to the dry season and would avoid the dam gates.
The Corps is currently undertaking an environmental assessment to assess impacts to human health and the environment and include any appropriate mitigation measures.
While we're working with the Conservation Corps to quickly complete the evaluation of this pilot program, there are still outstanding documents that they must provide in order for the Army Corps of Engineers to grant its approval.
The Corps invites the general public to submit comments on potential environmental impacts that could result from implementation of the proposal and alternatives. The public notice was posted on the U.S. Army Corps Los Angeles District website at www.spl.usace.army.mil on June 17, 2011. The comment period closes June 30, 2011.
Release no. 11-007