Sepulveda Dam Basin Master Plan - Los Angeles District - U.S. Army

Sepulveda Dam BasinMaster Plan and Environmental Assessment5 RESOURCE OBJECTIVES5.1 Resource ManagementResource management is moving towards an integrated ecological approach, as demonstrated bythe changing guidance of the Federal government. In urbanized areas such as southernCalifornia, ecosystems and their various habitat communities have become severely restricted.With the surrounding environment so drastically altered, biodiversity (species richness) isreduced and landscape linkages are broken. Conservation and restoration require a redefinedplanning process. A Corps Master Plan must reflect the most current advances in restorationecology and wildlife management in the context of the Corps mission, regulations, and guidance.Science recognizes the need for habitat connectivity so that wildlife not only has the necessaryspace to roam, but also has genetic diversity to ensure that an “island effect” on species is notinadvertently created on remnant habitat lands. With species increasingly endangered or ofspecial concern, objectives must consider habitat that is needed for species most at risk givencurrent conditions at the Basin. Objectives must also anticipate changes that may alter thisscenario in the future. Effective adaptive management techniques need to respond to currentconditions as well as an unknown future. The following Resource Objectives are common to allland use classifications and incorporate the principles of Flood Risk Management, Safety andSecurity, Environmental Quality and Character, Connectivity, and Community Involvement,5.2 Resource ObjectivesResource objectives are based on the input from stakeholders as well as Corps’ guidance.Resource objectives apply to all lands managed by the Corps.5.2.1 Flood Risk ManagementThe primary Project purpose is flood risk management as authorized by the 1936 Flood ControlAct. Flood risk management is the process of identifying, evaluating, selecting, implementingand monitoring actions to mitigate levels of risk. Flood risk management cannot be compromisedand the resource objectives for flood risk management apply to all land use classifications.Project Operations land are managed by the Corps for operations and maintenance of the Projectincluding the Dam embankment, outlet works, spillway, access roads, and other needs associatedwith Project operations. The public may not be cognizant of the importance of the role the Basinplays in flood risk management.Resource ObjectivesEducate the public and stakeholders on flood risk awareness and safety issues.Promote installation of signage and interpretation to educate the public about the role ofthe Basin in flood risk management.Resource Objectives 5-1