Homeowners’ OK Clears Path for Erosion-Control Plan
VENTURA — If all goes smoothly, Ventura may receive $22,500 in federal funds to prevent mudslides and other erosion on hills above the city charred by the Poli fire.
After wind-driven flames burned 475 acres in the Ventura hills in October, the city applied to the Emergency Watershed Protection Program for technical and financial assistance to prevent erosion and mudslides on the denuded slopes. The money would be used to reseed the slopes and line the burned areas above Kalorama and Aliso streets with sandbags.
But before Ventura can receive the funds, the city must assure the Natural Resources Conservation Service that local property owners will permit erosion-control measures on their land.
Last week, city officials received permission from homeowners, said Ron Calkins, director of public works.
The proposed plan includes sandbagging to protect homes and buildings at the base of the hillsides, and spraying the blackened slopes with a blend of native grass seed and a glue-like substance.
Under the erosion-control program, the federal government covers 75% of the costs and the city the remaining 25%. The city estimates the project will cost about $30,000. The city’s share of the costs would be provided by in-kind services.
If the council approves the plan, the seeding and sandbagging would begin late this month or in early January.
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