Posted on July 11, 2024
Why it matters: The beaches have become mostly rocks and pebbles following coastal erosion as a result of heavy storms, larger surf, and development along the coastline.
When can we go to the beach again: The beaches will remain open while replenishment efforts are underway, but some access will be restricted by the presence of heavy equipment. State officials anticipate it will take four months to complete the project.
Where is the sand coming from: The heavy winter rainfall resulted in sand being deposited upstream in the Santa Ana River. This sand would typically end up in a landfill, or it could have resulted in the river flooding. Instead, following tests to the sand is safe, it’s being diverted to pack the shoreline.
