One of the top five projects in the Los Angeles River Master Plan, Long Beach’s Dominguez Gap Wetlands were opened yesterday with Supervisor Don Knabe and Mayor Bob Foster in attendance.  The 50-acre habitat underwent a $7 million treatment, and has been bio-engineered to treat polluted runoff before it reaches San Pedro Harbor.

The project’s main purposes are to restore native habitat, improve flood protection along the river, introduce new water quality elements, provide pedestrian, bike and equestrian trails, and further environmental education.

“By restoring the natural beauty of these wetlands, local residents will be able to enjoy this environment through the improved bike trail, and the new pedestrian and horseback trails,” said Long Beach Mayor Bob Foster.  “The restoration also creates a natural filtration system that will help improve our watershed.”

Funding was provided by the Los Angeles County Flood Control District ($4 million), State Water Resources Control Board ($2.3 million), California Coastal Conservancy ($400,000), and Rivers and Mountains Conservancy ($200,000).

Photographer Diana Lejins as on hand to capture some great images from the debut.

by Ryan ZumMallen, Managing Editor