In the wake of fire season, it is imperative to understand the damage and risks of flooding that can be caused by a wildfire’s aftermath, years later and in the new burn areas. As part of the State of California’s Annual Flood Preparedness week from Oct. 21-25, VCPWA is working to ensure public safety and education by participating in multiple events to help the community prepare before disaster strikes.
- On Monday, Oct. 14th VCPWA partnered with United Water Conservation District (UWCD), to deliver a topical overview presentation to the 2nd Grade Class at the Rio del Sol STEAM Academy in Oxnard. The presentation included spanning the water cycle, discussion of watersheds, flood events, levees, storm water runoff, impingement on natural groundwater recharge triggered by impervious surfaces, and friendly co-habitation with riverine species and habitats. By utilizing a stormwater flood model, the children were engaged, entertained, and educated about some of the efforts put forth by VCPWA to help keep the community aware and prepared during a flooding event.
- Along with its school visit, VCPWA Watershed Protection Agency will occupy a booth from Oct. 21-25, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., at the County of Ventura Hall of Administration, providing information and resources regarding disaster preparedness, including flood hazards, safety, and insurance. A free copy of the Homeowner Guide for Flood, Debris, and Erosion Control will be distributed along with other free information and materials. Staff members will be available to answer specific questions about flood hazards, flood safety and maps, and homeowners flood insurance.
- In addition, VCPWA recently participated in its annual Storm Day training which mobilized Public Works crews to clear out the Milligan and Honda barrancas that were blocked by a fallen tree as well as vegetation. The exercise mobilized VCPWA to its emergency Field Operations Centers, Department Operations Centers, and Agency Operation Center, to test the agency’s emergency response plans, response times and processes. In addition, the agency tested its evaluation of information and communication procedures, and analyzed the efficiency of departments, to help identify any areas for improvement in the emergency response plans.
“Public information and education are key components of Ventura County Public Works Agency’s work in our communities. The Agency has worked with many schools, and VCPWA’s Watershed Protection District enjoys an enduring and close relationship with Rio School District and its Rio Sol STEAM Academy which is located adjacent to the Santa Clara River levee system. Embedding Watershed Protection District inter-disciplinary professionals in partnership with Academy teachers and students is a vital element in implementing the District’s vision; namely, championing an environmentally-resilient and economically-sustainable future for Ventura County watersheds, as we work to protect life, property, and community infrastructure from flood events,” said Glenn Shephard, Director of the Ventura County Public Works Agency’s Watershed Protection District and Assistant Executive Officer of the Fox Canyon Groundwater Management Agency.
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