U.S. Congressman Jerry McNerney Praises Partnership Efforts to Restore Local Waterway

PLEASANTON, Calif., Aug. 16, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in California, the Alameda County Resource Conservation District (ACRCD), and other partners gathered today to mark the completion of restoration work to a 600-foot long section of Arroyo de la Laguna. The restoration efforts included planting native vegetation and returning the waterway to proper hydrologic function. The work was done to protect habitat for threatened species, reduce streambank erosion and reduce flood risks.

"The completion of this project is a great moment for our community, and I was proud to work with folks in our region to make it a reality.  Bringing back federal resources to better our neighborhood has always been a priority of mine, and now we see the wonderful result that will not only protect natural resources, but reduce flood risk in our region.  I congratulate everyone who made this day happen," said Congressman Jerry McNerney.

The restored waterway runs underneath the Verona Road Bridge, a popular pedestrian and bicycle bridge, in Pleasanton, which now features permanent, installed informational panels to educate visitors on the importance and environmental benefits of the work.  Approximately $1.2 million was invested for construction, design work and contracting, permitting fees, monitoring and maintenance.

The Arroyo de la Laguna is the main tributary to Alameda Creek, the second largest drainage to the San Francisco Bay, with a watershed encompassing approximately 700 square miles. The watershed is comprised of numerous land use sectors including protected parks, wildlife and water supply areas, rangeland, and urban and suburban development. Rapid development and other historic changes in the upper watershed caused severe instability in the lower five miles of the Arroyo de la Laguna.

The project is a collaboration of federal and local agencies, including the ACRCD, NRCS, San Francisco Public Utilities Commission, Alameda County Public Works Department, Alameda County Flood Control and Water Conservation District, and Zone Seven Water Agency.

NRCS has provided leadership in a partnership effort to help America's private land owners and managers conserve their soil, water and other natural resources since 1935. For more information on NRCS, visit www.nrcs.usda.gov.

SOURCE USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service