The LCWC plays an important role in ensuring that any project development in the watershed considers the health and protection of our local creeks. We are always on the lookout for projects that could impact our neighborhood creeks. LCWC has been included on the notification and distribution lists for the City of Elk Grove, Cosumnes Community Services District, and the County of Sacramento. Being included on these distribution lists means that we are notified when a new development or project permit has been proposed in their jurisdictional boundaries. The notification usually includes access to plans and specifications for each of the projects showing the location, project footprint, types of structures, grading plan, and landscaping plan.
The review and comments will usually focus on ensuring projects include features that protect the creeks from excess runoff and erosion which results in excessive sediment and pollutants flowing to our creeks. We also focus on what type of landscaping is proposed and whether it is appropriate for our climate and soils so we can reduce or eliminate unnecessary water use.
The LCWC plays a role in the following:
- Ensuring the project footprint is sufficiently set back from a creek
- The calculations of runoff volume are appropriate for the development and the system has the capacity to detain and treat the flows
- The construction of impervious surfaces such as roads and parking lots is limited to a feasible area
- If impervious surfaces are proposed can they be replaced with permeable surface designs to enhance infiltration and groundwater recharge.
- Vegetated buffers or swales are used to capture stormwater runoff and treat it before discharge to the creek
- Use of low maintenance native vegetation is proposed so the use of pesticides and fertilizers can be reduced or eliminated
- Ensure the landscaping irrigation plan includes water efficient fixtures
- Encourage the capture and infiltration of stormwater on a site
- Evaluate whether the plan includes adequate monitoring and assessment where potential impacts could occur
- Evaluate whether the project design could enhance creek and trail access
The LCWC has worked hard with each of these agencies over the years to provide professional and objective input on how developments can be designed to protect and enhance the creeks in our neighborhoods. LCWC is proud that we continue to be a part of this review process and remains committed to ensuring the mission of the LCWC is brought to bear on all developments in our watershed. If you are interested in helping with these types of reviews and have some area of expertise that you think would be valuable please contact us to get involved.
We can be reached at the LCWC email info@lagunacreek.org