Phase II of Griffith Park recovery outlined

Councilmember LaBonge called another community meeting Wednesday night to update Griffith Park stakeholders and area residents for a briefing by the National Weather Service, Dept. of Recreation and Parks and LAFD on what they can next expect in terms of activity over the fall/winter months. Phase II of the Griffith Park Recovery Plan, managed by RAP, is the hydromulching of 500 of the 1,000 or so charred acres to help prevent erosion and mudslides. The process involves spraying a wet, seedless mulch by helicopter and from trucks over the scorched areas, a method that has met with success in other fire-ravaged parks in Southern California. The activity is expected to commence in October and completed within weeks. RAP reviewed progress for Phase I including the installation of debris barriers and clearing of check dams.

Attendees also heard a presentation by the National Weather Service regarding flash flood potential in burn areas if the rains return this winter. The potential for disaster is much greater in urban areas, said spokesperson Eric Boldt, cautioning residents to be prepared. Asst. LAFD Chief Fry gave the final talk assuring residents the LAFD has great resources to assist in all manner of emergencies.