The Santa Monica Bay has been identified as an “impaired water body” by the California State Water Resources Control Board and US EPA. This impairment comes from many sources including runoff from “nonpoint sources” such as over-watered lawns and bare hillsides, and direct discharges from “point sources” such as wastewater treatment plants, storm drains, and industrial facilities. When it rains, the water runoff is called stormwater. For the big picture, watch “The Clean Water Act and Our Backyards.”
Best Practices for Residents, Visitors, and Business Owners
- Protecting Water Quality: Top 10
- Do not allow water to runoff your property due to mobile carwashing and irrigation
- Keep motor oil, paint, and water runoff out of storm drains
- Pop balloons, put litter in a closed trash bin – balloons on the loose can harm animals
- Harvest water on-site with cisterns or rain barrels and reuse water on landscaping
- Install a rain garden or permeable pavers for high traffic areas like a driveway
- Join the movement to “Keep it Clean, Malibu” – daily activities make a difference
Cities and Counties are Doing Their Part
Local cities and agencies are on the front line protecting water quality, focusing on creating green infrastructure and pollution prevention.
- Broad Beach Road Biofiltration Project
- Calabasas Dog Park
- Las Virgenes Creek Restoration
- Liberty Canyon Underpass
- Malibu Legacy Park
- Malibu Lagoon Restoration
- Wildlife Road Treatment Project
Utility Companies are Environmental Stewards
Local utilities, Sempra Gas and Southern California Edison, are committed to maintaining water quality standards.
Requirements for Developers and Contractors
Developers and contractors are required to prevent pollution from their sites during construction. The California Department of Transportation has fact sheets about actions construction sites can take to reduce impacts to the environment. For specific requirements, contact your local city or county.