Agua Hedionda Dredge Project

The California Coastal Commission considered an amendment to an existing Coastal Development Permit (CDP) for maintenance dredging at Agua Hedionda Lagoon. The amendment proposes two additional dredging cycles in 2024/2025 and 2027/2028, with up to 500,000 cubic yards of sand to be dredged per cycle and deposited on North, Middle, and South Beaches in Carlsbad. The dredging will be done by Poseidon, the operators of the Carlsbad Desalination Plant. The project includes updated conditions to address grunion spawning, invasive species, surf monitoring, and long-term sand movement. Notably, the addendum addresses concerns from Surfrider Foundation and expands the extent of surf monitoring in the project. The Commission unanimously approved the project under the consent calendar.

This project has significant implications for coastal resilience, recreation, and habitat protection in Carlsbad. While sand replenishment helps counteract beach erosion and protects infrastructure, improper implementation can harm marine habitats, disrupt surfing conditions, and fail to address long-term sand movement issues. Enhanced surf monitoring and habitat assessments are critical to ensuring that these activities balance ecological health with public access and recreation. Additionally, the Poseidon mitigation program is a key component in ensuring the Carlsbad Desalination Plant complies with environmental and Coastal Act requirements.