Beach Groin Debate

Thank you for your coverage of the Greenock groin and Surfrider Foundation’s concerns about Ventura’s plan to build a 100-foot addition onto the existing structure.

We’d like to point out that Surfrider Foundation, Ventura County chapter, has never categorically opposed the project. There are two phases to the project, and we strongly support Phase 1, which is the reconstruction and reinforcement of the existing groin. By doing so, we believe that beach erosion could be halted, homes in the area could be protected and currents at Marina Park would be reduced.

The second phase, the construction of an offset T-shaped cap on the existing groin, is the portion of the project that we question. We have, from the beginning, proposed that Phase 1 be carried out and the city then pause to assess the impact of reinforcing the groin. If beach erosion would be halted by phase one construction, there would be no need to carry out Phase 2, a surfing spot could be protected and the city would save money.

We were informed three years ago that this was an “all or nothing” project. Therefore, out of concern for homeowners, we chose not to object to the project. Our Paddle Out demonstration was to educate the public as to the importance of preserving surf spots and to encourage planning agencies to take a conservative, step-by-step approach to any future projects that affect ocean and beach use.

Bruce MacDonald

Ojai

Bruce MacDonald is president of Surfrider Foundation, Ventura County chapter.