Lake El Estero Aquatic Vegetation Removal

The City of Monterey is implementing the Lake El Estero Aquatic Vegetation Removal project, identified as project number 26-18817, to manage the growth of widgeon grass within the urban lake. The primary objective is to restore safe recreational use, including paddle boat operations, while improving water circulation and supporting the functionality of lake infrastructure such as aeration devices and pump intakes. The scope of work requires the use of specialized aquatic harvesting equipment or hydro-rakes to cut and collect vegetation above the sediment surface to avoid disturbing the lakebed. Harvested materials must be staged in designated upland areas for drying before being transported to an approved off-site disposal facility. The project is categorized as a forecast under NAICS code 237990 and is managed by Kimberly Cole, the Community Development Director. To ensure environmental compliance, the project is exempt from CEQA under sections 15301 and 15304 as it constitutes routine maintenance. Strict adherence to best management practices is required, including visual water quality monitoring, spill prevention, and the avoidance of sensitive habitats and emergent wetland vegetation along lake margins. All activities must utilize existing park trails and access points, with staging limited to paved parking areas or previously disturbed upland zones.