Volume I, Issue IV

Clichéd but True - There’s no “I” in Team

Partnerships and community participation are vital components in our pursuit to improve water quality and livability in Los Angeles. Without the collaboration and input from many local non-profits, neighborhood organizations and other governmental agencies, it would be impossible for us to move forward and be successful with the work that we do on behalf of the public.

In this issue of L.A. Stormwater, we highlight a few of our collaborative projects. You’ll see that the range of groups and individuals involved in our efforts is extensive. We are proud of the innovative work that we are able to help support such as the Sun Valley Watershed Stakeholders Group that is working diligently to improve water quality in their portion of the city. The group meets once a month to explore ideas and proposals that address the area’s chronic flooding problems, and to plan public education and outreach activities. It is organizations like these that are making a difference.

Equally important is the work of the Santa Monica Bay Restoration Commission who helped fund a downspout disconnection initiative through state Proposition 12. Ultimately, this initiative will assist area homeowners reduce urban runoff after a rainfall by one million cubic feet of water.

Or take the work of the Los Angeles and San Gabriel Rivers Watershed Council, a non-profit organization comprised of community groups, government agencies, businesses and academics that is working cooperatively to address water issues within two watersheds. The Watershed Council focuses on motivating local citizens to become directly involved in the consensus-building process, where they can impact water quality through community action. On Elmer Avenue in Los Angeles, the Watershed Council and their partners such as TreePeople are working with local residents to retrofit their properties with new infrastructure to divert stormwater runoff.

It is projects and organizations like these that we are excited about partnering with and highlighting herein. As I noted above, we would not be able to address so many issues in so many different locations if it were not for the people and groups that are committed to making our vibrant city a better, healthier place to live.

The City of Los Angeles Stormwater Program may not be able to take the lead on all of these projects but we are nonetheless pleased to be involved in these fresh, cutting-edge programs, where stakeholders and local residents are coming together to improve our community, as well as the environment that sustains us all.

Thank you for your continued support.

Residents sign up to participate and learn more about projects in their local communities.

Sincerely,