San Rafael, CA – Several Marin agencies are assessing positive learning points from the team effort that prevented a major flood in Stinson Beach last weekend.
Post storm cleanup continued after the Feb. 9 downpour that resulted in 21 inches of rain on Mount Tamalpais. Crews from Marin County Department of Public Works (DPW), the U.S. National Park Service (NPS), Stinson Fire Department and Stinson Water District were onsite during the storm and took measures to address the rapidly rising waters in the creek. Since the storm, crews from County DPW and NPS have removed sediment and silt from the Stinson Beach parking lot and picnic area. On Feb. 14, County DPW crews removed sediment from a recently constructed basin behind the Parkside Café that filled during the storm.
The deluge prompted feedback from the community and staff from County DPW, NPS, Stinson Fire Department and Stinson Water District toward alternatives that are being considered as part of the Stinson Beach Watershed Program.
Quick action from the agencies diverted creek overflows away from residential areas as Easkoot Creek topped its banks. “Our work kept the Parkside restaurant in business and minimized property damage downstream,” said Stinson Fire Chief Kenny Stephens.
The partnership has been bolstered by ongoing watershed planning efforts seeking alternatives to perennial flooding in Stinson Beach. The flooding provided real-time insight that will help “flood-proof” Stinson Beach and NPS infrastructure.
Also, Feb. 14 marked the end of a one-month survey period designed to gauge resident support for a fee measure to raise funds for flood protection and creek restoration. Check the program website for a link to the survey for Stinson Beach residents and more information about the watershed.
A community meeting is being planned this spring to discuss next steps and timeline for a possible fee measure.