Report on Flood Zone 5 Advisory Board MeetingFebruary 19, 2026Easkoot Creek & Stinson Beach: Flood Zone 5 UpdatesFlood Zone 5 Advisory Committee Meeting February 19, 2026 There is a lot of movement regarding the waters that define our landscape. From the continual work of flood management to the return of local wildlife, here are key takeaways from the recent February Flood Zone 5 Advisory Committee meeting. Creek Maintenance & Habitat RestorationMaintaining the delicate balance of the Easkoot Creek is an ongoing effort that spans both public and private land. Specific Flood Zone work is funded by property taxes and special fees: Annual Flood Control: The Conservation Corps is currently budgeted for annual vegetation management in the easement area stretching from Parkside Cafe to the Community Center. Additionally, funds are allocated for approximately four sediment removal episodes per year near the Cafe to maintain channel flow. A Sign of Health: In the stretch of the creek between the park and the Calles—managed primarily by private homeowners—neighbors are reporting a heartening sight: salmon are returning to these waters. Permitting Progress: While portions of the creek within the County right-of-way (particularly in the Calles) are currently not permitted for maintenance, a multi-year process is underway to secure a formal maintenance agreement for these areas.
NPS Stinson Beach Rehabilitation (Target: 2028)The National Park Service (NPS) is currently in the environmental review phase for a major overhaul of the Stinson Beach Parking Area. The primary goal is to create a space that is resilient to flood risks while improving the visitor experience. The proposed plan includes: Engineering for Resilience: Installation of a weir, buried rip-rap, an overflow channel, and beach outfalls to reduce downstream flood risk. Improved Layout: Removal of existing parking berms in favor of a new configuration with vegetated buffers. Access & Safety: Streamlined traffic circulation for better emergency response and enhanced accessibility for all visitors.
Visualizing Our WatershedTo truly appreciate the dynamic nature of our region, I encourage you to explore the Bolinas Lagoon Watershed map hosted by Streets to Creeks. It offers a fascinating perspective on how water moves through our spectacular "downstream" environment. Now, aren’t you interested in joining the Flood Zone 5 Advisory Committee? Apply here!
|
