Efforts to Prevent Trash in Local Streams from Reaching the Ocean

Trash Accumulation in Local Rivers

• 🌧️ Heavy rains are causing local rivers, like the San Gabriel River, to pick up significant amounts of trash and debris from streets.
• 🌊 This collected litter flows downstream, eventually ending up in the ocean.
• 📍 The Coyote Creek in La Palma is identified as a source, which connects to the San Gabriel River and flows approximately 9 miles to Seal Beach.

Documented Trash Issues

• 📸 Video from Sky 5 HD shows debris and trash visible in the San Gabriel River near its inlet to the ocean.
• 📅 Similar issues were documented in 2023 after a rainstorm, highlighting a recurring problem.

Proposed Solutions and Interventions

• 💡 Officials in Orange and Los Angeles Counties are discussing and studying ideas to prevent trash from reaching the ocean.
• ⚙️ One proposed solution involves using trash interceptors, similar to those seen in Marina del Rey, to capture debris before it enters the ocean.
• 💧 Another concept is a water wheel interceptor, currently in use in Newport Beach, to collect trash and debris.
• 🚧 The implementation of booms and nets in various locations is also being considered to stop debris from entering channels.

Feasibility Study and Collaboration

• 📊 A feasibility study, funded by Orange County, is expected in about a month and has identified 17 potential locations for trash traps or interceptors.
• 💰 Discussions are ongoing regarding the cost of these solutions and the necessity of securing funding.
• 🤝 Collaboration between LA County, Orange County, and the various cities along the San Gabriel River is crucial due to the multiple jurisdictions involved.
• 🗺️ The San Gabriel River passes through many cities, including Whittier, Rios, La Palma, Buena Park, Los Alamitos, and eventually Seal Beach, underscoring the need for a coordinated effort.