Environment 10-1

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Weather Service, El Ni±o is officially here and has the potential to cause higher-than-normal rainfall and storms in the coming months. In order to protect against the flooding and debris flows expected downstream of recently burned mountainous areas, the Santa Barbara County Flood Control District has implemented a number of safety measures that include clearing streams of debris, hydromulching burned areas, and installing debris racks in upper creek beds. County officials urge residents to take a proactive approach to protecting their homes by stocking up on sandbags and monitoring weather conditions. Evacuation plans and an improved Reverse 911 system are also in the final stages of planning.

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Having led the charge in converting homes along Rincon Point from septic tanks to a sewer system in the name of improving water quality, Heal the Ocean announced 9/26 that its top priority is wastewater reclamation. Specifically, the impacts of treated and untreated wastewater flowing into the ocean via outfall pipes along popular beaches like Montecito’s Butterfly Beach. The new campaign was announced at the nonprofit’s annual fundraising concert held at the Coral Casino.