Sacramento residents oppose Army Corps erosion plan for American River Parkway

In a packed Sacramento County meeting, community members voiced their deep concerns over the American River Common Features Project, particularly Contract 3B, which proposes significant erosion control measures along the Lower American River Parkway. The atmosphere was charged with emotion as residents, environmental advocates, and local stakeholders gathered to express their fears about the potential destruction of this cherished natural resource.

Nancy Niskern, a passionate advocate for the parkway, opened the discussion by criticizing the limited public engagement surrounding the project. She highlighted the inadequacy of the 45-day review period for a 1,740-page environmental impact statement, which was released just before the Christmas holidays. Niskern urged the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) to adopt more environmentally sound solutions, emphasizing the need for a collaborative approach that prioritizes biodiversity and community input.

Julie Gabel echoed these sentiments, warning that the proposed project would lead to the removal of over 700 trees, including mature oaks, which are vital to the parkway's ecosystem. She painted a vivid picture of a once-lush landscape being transformed into a barren, rock-strewn area, arguing that such changes would not only harm wildlife but also disrupt the local economy, which benefits significantly from the parkway's natural beauty.

Annette Ferreault shared her personal connection to the river, recounting her distress upon witnessing clear-cutting near her home. She implored officials to reconsider the project, emphasizing the psychological and environmental importance of maintaining green spaces for community well-being.

As the meeting progressed, speakers like Tom Nelson and Candace Hines called for greater transparency and community involvement in the planning process. They expressed skepticism about the Corps' ability to manage the project effectively, citing past mistakes and urging a shift towards more sustainable, nature-based solutions.

The collective message from the community was clear: while flood protection is essential, it should not come at the cost of the parkway's ecological integrity. Residents urged local officials to pause the project and explore alternatives that would safeguard both the environment and the community's connection to this vital natural resource.

As the meeting concluded, the board members listened attentively, acknowledging the concerns raised. The future of the American River Parkway hangs in the balance, with community voices advocating for a more thoughtful and inclusive approach to its preservation. The outcome of this project could define the legacy of local governance in Sacramento, as residents seek to protect their beloved parkway for generations to come.