of steelhead spawned each year throughout the streams of the Santa Monica Mountains as part of their unique life history that spans both freshwater and ocean habitats. Today only three streams, Arroyo Sequit, Malibu, and Topanga Creeks, are
known to contain steelhead trout, and their numbers are few.
Significant steps toward protecting endangered southern steelhead trout and other environmental resources will take place this summer and fall at Leo Carrillo State Park. California State Parks and partner agencies are undertaking the project, which will also enhance beach access.
“We are so pleased that this project benefits both the natural environment and the recreating public – two pillars of California State Park’s mission,” said Suzanne Goode, Senior Environmental Scientist, California State Parks. “Southern steelhead is an imperiled species, and to reconnect them to their historic habitat in one of the cleanest creeks in the Santa Monica Mountains is a reason to celebrate.”
After 15 years of planning, two concrete roadways that cut through Arroyo Sequit Creek will be removed and replaced with freestanding bridges. These roadways currently provide access to the beach and a group camp site, but are affected by seasonal flooding that degrades water quality and blocks public access. The roadways also keep southern steelhead trout from utilizing four and a half miles of quality habitat along Arroyo Sequit Creek.
The southern steelhead trout, a Distinct Population Segment (DPS), is endangered and ranges from the Santa Maria River south to the Mexican border. Historically, thousands Facebook.com/CaliforniaStateParks www.parks.ca.gov @CAStateParks DPR 985 (Rev. 12/2014)(Word 12/1/2014) 2 of steelhead spawned each year throughout the streams of the Santa Monica Mountains as part of their unique life history that spans both freshwater and ocean habitats.
Today only three streams, Arroyo Sequit, Malibu, and Topanga Creeks, are known to contain steelhead trout, and their numbers are few. Project construction is scheduled for July 13 – October 31, 2015. During this time vehicle access to the beach, all day-use parking, and the group campground will be closed.
Pedestrian access to the beach and individual camp site reservations will not be affected, and the camp store will be open. Work hours will be from 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday – Friday, except holidays.
