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Volunteers and agencies set Sept. 26–Oct. 2 Steelhead Creek cleanup; board urged to revive invasive-species removal
Summary
Volunteers with the River City Waterway Alliance told the Secretary of Flood Control Agency board that an interagency cleanup at Steelhead Creek is scheduled for Sept. 26–Oct. 2 and urged renewed action on removing invasive red sesbania and other species. A local director pledged district partnership.
Lisa Sanchez, a volunteer with the River City Waterway Alliance, told the Secretary of the Flood Control Agency board on Aug. 21 that an interagency cleanup at Steelhead Creek is scheduled for Sept. 26–Oct. 2 and asked the agency to consider joining costs for debris removal.
Sanchez said the seven-day operation, led by Dr. Roland Brady, will bring multiple agencies and heavy equipment to remove trash and debris from a preidentified channel section. "Last year we removed over 100,000 pounds of debris in one little area within that 7-day stretch," she said, and asked whether other agencies could help cover the cost of hauling and disposal.
The request came during the public-comment period. Chair Kennedy and board staff said event details will be posted on the agency website and that volunteers and board members who want to participate should follow up with staff for a location and agency breakdown. Sanchez said she would coordinate with Dr. Brady and David, who have the operational details.
In the same comment, Sanchez urged the board to reinvigorate efforts to remove invasive plant species, naming red sesbania and water primrose as particular concerns in Steelhead Creek and upstream channels such as Robla Creek and Dry Creek. "We gotta start somewhere," she said, noting that floating seeds spread the plants downstream and create recurring problems for native habitat and fish access.
Director Aptis, who said he lives adjacent to Steelhead Creek, thanked Sanchez and pledged RD 1000's continued partnership on cleanups. "I want to extend our continuing commitment to partner with you folks for the cleanups and would appreciate perhaps some conversation after this meeting," Aptis said.
Board staff said the interagency event is already posted for volunteer sign-ups and that staff will work with Sanchez, Dr. Brady and David to provide a more detailed schedule and agency participation list.
The board recessed shortly after public comment for a closed session and returned without a reported action. The next regular meeting is scheduled for Sept. 18.
