Pajaro River, Salsipuedes and Corralitos Creeks 2025 Debris, Vegetation and Fuel Reduction

The project is proposed to protect public safety and private property from hazards associated with illegal encampments and vegetation overgrowth (i.e., reduced river capacity), protect property from damage that is being caused by nuisance trees, and prevent the spread of invasive weeds and non-native trees within the river corridor. The project includes hand-pulling weeds, tree pruning, removal of hazardous and nuisance trees (invasives or that impact the normal function of levee system), and removal of temporary structures and associated debris associated with dispersed illegal encampments along the river corridor. The work would prevent the spread of invasive plants, minimize hazards from dropped limbs, trunk failure, and fire, prevent damage to private property, and promote effective maintenance & operation of the river corridor. Crews would use chain saws and hand tools to complete the work, leaving the stumps in place and chipping downed trunks and limbs. Abandoned encampment property will be properly collected and disposed of at land fill facilities in accordance with their respective policies. Laydown areas would be provided by the project applicant (Pajaro Regional Flood Management Agency). Access roads would be provided by the local agencies public roads (City of Watsonville, County of Monterey, and County of Santa Cruz). Best Management Practices (BMPs) have been incorporated into the project design. The work would be completed in between 7am and 7pm in accordance with the applicable Municipal Code (City of Watsonville, County of Monterey, and County of Santa Cruz).