Engineer warns Placer County leaders on Dry Creek hydrology and land use concerns

In a packed meeting room at the Placer County government building, voices echoed with concern over the future of the Dry Creek Watershed. Residents and experts alike gathered to express their worries about the ongoing development in the area, which they fear could irreparably harm the local environment and community.

One of the most impassioned speakers was a recently retired professional engineer who dedicated 30 years to hydrology. With a wealth of experience from a renowned hydrologic lab, he shared his findings after an extensive review of the Dry Creek area. His message was clear: the increasing impervious surfaces from development are jeopardizing the watershed's health. He warned that while Dry Creek may currently flow well, the long-term effects of reduced groundwater infiltration could lead to dry summers and falls in the coming decades. “It’s almost like the county thinks they can pave over the watershed without any consequences,” he lamented, urging officials to halt further development until a thorough analysis of low flow hydrology is conducted.

Jessica Haines, a local resident, echoed these concerns, questioning the county's commitment to the Dry Creek Community Plan—a legal document that outlines land use and development standards. She expressed frustration over what she sees as a blatant disregard for the community's needs, as agricultural land is being replaced with housing developments. “Are we turning rural Dry Creek into a sea of houses?” she asked, highlighting the erosion of lifestyle choices and the destruction of farmland.

Both speakers emphasized the need for accountability and transparency in the county's planning processes. They called for a return to the principles laid out in the community plan, which was designed to guide growth in a way that respects the environment and the wishes of local residents. As the meeting concluded, the air was thick with a sense of urgency and a plea for the county to reconsider its approach to development in the Dry Creek area. The future of this cherished watershed hangs in the balance, and the community is determined to ensure their voices are heard.