Ocean Outlet Maintenance Manual

The Ocean Outlets Maintenance Program, governed by Lake and Streambed Alteration Agreement EPIMS-ORA-36772-R5, is a maintenance initiative executed by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife for the County of Orange. Pursuant to Fish and Game Code section 1602, the project focuses on the upkeep of five specific ocean outlets located in Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, Dana Point, and San Clemente. These sites include the Talbert Outlet, the Santa Ana River Outlet, the Salt Creek Outlet, the Estrella storm channel outlet, and the Segunda Deshecha Cañada Outlet. The primary scope of work involves the removal of sand and sediment to ensure proper tidal flow, with the removed material being redistributed to nearby beaches. Additionally, the program requires the retrieval and replacement of loose boulders and rock riprap from jetties to maintain structural integrity. Operational requirements include a rigorous inspection schedule where all outlets are inspected every fall and spring. The Talbert Channel and Santa Ana River outlets require more frequent monitoring, with additional inspections scheduled for summer, winter, and following any major storm events. In the event of observed blockages, corrective maintenance must be performed within seven days to prevent tidal disruptions. Work will be conducted using heavy equipment such as excavators, bulldozers, backhoes, and articulating dump trucks, with site access provided through surrounding public beaches. The project is subject to environmental oversight, including a Mitigated Negative Declaration and a Mitigation Reporting or Monitoring Plan adopted by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife to ensure no significant environmental impact occurs within its jurisdiction.