Wetting wetland’s whistle

A state bond measure slated to go before voters in the next general election would allot at least $20 million for protection and restoration of the Bolsa Chica Wetlands.

The Legislature passed the $11.1-billion package, known as the Safe, Clean and Reliable Drinking Water Supply Act of 2010 on Nov. 4. The act seeks to overhaul the state’s water system to ensure safe drinking water and a reliable water supply.

Among the goals earmarked in the measure are the preservation of Bolsa Chica and its adjacent uplands as well as interpretive centers on the property. If voters approve the act, the $20 million will fall into the hands of the California Coastal Conservancy, a state group devoted to protecting and restoring coastal resources.

Dick Wayman, the conservancy’s spokesman, said nonprofits and local government agencies could apply for grants for specific projects. In addition, he said, the state would work with local groups to disperse the funds.

“We have a very long history of working in Bolsa Chica, so we know all the players down there,” Wayman said. “So we would be working with them to determine how the money would best be spent.”

As the news spread that Bolsa Chica would be part of the bond measure, local environmentalists began penciling their wish lists.

Mark Gaughan, the board chairman of Bolsa Chica Conservancy, said the measure could help his group to build an Education and Restoration Center in the Harriett M. Wieder Regional Park. Gaughan said his group will pursue other funding sources in the meantime, but the grant could complete the construction.

“I may be able to build the beginning of an Education and Restoration Center,” he said. “This would finish the job.”

Flossie Horgan, executive director of the Bolsa Chica Land Trust, said the funds could be used to acquire a Native American archaeological site, known as ORA-83, which is listed on the National Register of Historical Places, as well as the upper wetlands area owned by Shea Homes. She said she believed the measure could pass easily if voters educate themselves on it.

“The fact of the matter is, everyone in the state agrees we have a major problem with the water delivery system, and there has been lot of work put into this bond language over the years,” Horgan said. “I think it’s got large bipartisan support, so it’s got a good chance.”

The election will take place Nov. 2.