The federal government on Wednesday affirmed the Los Angeles River’s status as a “traditional navigable water.” This action ensures that the river is protected from pollution and other damaging activities under the Clean Water Act.
The 51-mile river that is mostly lined with concrete extends from the San Fernando Valley south to Long Beach. Two years ago, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers proposed to declare that only small portions of the river be considered traditional navigable waters. Some had feared that this would weaken federal protections for many tributaries and wetlands. EPA’s designation removes any ambiguity regarding the river’s legal status.
“This designation assures the community that their local waters are protected by the nation’s water laws,” said EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson. “A clean, vibrant L.A. River system can help revitalize struggling communities, promoting growth and jobs for residents of Los Angeles. We want the L.A. River to demonstrate how urban waterways across the country can serve as assets in building stronger neighborhoods, attracting new businesses and creating new jobs. ”
READ THIS STORY AT MERCURYNEWS.COM
The federal government on Wednesday affirmed the Los Angeles River’s status as a “traditional navigable water.” This action ensures that the river is protected from pollution and other damaging activities under the Clean Water Act.
The 51-mile river that is mostly lined with concrete extends from the San Fernando Valley south to Long Beach. Two years ago, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers proposed to declare that only small portions of the river be considered traditional navigable waters. Some had feared that this would weaken federal protections for many tributaries and wetlands. EPA’s designation removes any ambiguity regarding the river’s legal status.
“This designation assures the community that their local waters are protected by the nation’s water laws,” said EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson. “A clean, vibrant L.A. River system can help revitalize struggling communities, promoting growth and jobs for residents of Los Angeles. We want the L.A. River to demonstrate how urban waterways across the country can serve as assets in building stronger neighborhoods, attracting new businesses and creating new jobs. ”
READ THIS STORY AT MERCURYNEWS.COM
