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VENTURA — In anticipation of seasonal high surf, El Niño-related winter storms, and upcoming King Tides, the City of Ventura will construct an approximately one-mile-long, 5- to 6-foot-high temporary protective sand berm along a vulnerable stretch of the coastline to help safeguard beachfront neighborhoods, public infrastructure, and coastal accessways.
Various types of heavy machinery will operate along Pierpont Beach, from San Pedro Street to Greenock Lane, between Monday, November 16 at 8:00 a.m. through Thursday, November 19 at 5:00 p.m. Staging of equipment near local beaches will begin Friday, November 13.
Observed ocean water is currently running more than a foot above predicted astronomical tides. Even moderate swells, combined with the increased likelihood of strong El Niño-driven storms and upcoming King Tides, pose a risk of wave overtopping and localized flooding.
“We are already seeing observable changes along our shoreline, with far less surf required to threaten low-lying neighborhoods,” said Mack Douglass, the City’s Emergency Services Manager. ” Proactive emergency preparedness means learning from past winters, recognizing these early indicators, and building this berm before severe weather arrives.”
The sand berm will remain in place throughout the winter season. Anticipated deconstruction and sand redistribution are expected to occur in March 2027, ahead of the nesting season for the federally protected Western Snowy Plover bird.
Community members and beachgoers are urged to stay clear of all heavy machinery, active work zones, and steep berm slopes.
Residents in low-lying coastal areas are encouraged to prepare their properties by securing outdoor furniture and utilizing sandbags where needed. Free sand and sandbags are available to Ventura residents at the City’s Maintenance Yard, located at 336 Sanjon Road. Supplies are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
For more information about the City’s sand berm construction and emergency alerts, visit www.cityofventura.ca.gov/SandBerm