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Watershed Waste Recycling Station
The goal of the Watershed Waste Recycling Station (WWRS) is to mitigate and restore surface and ground water recharge within specific reaches of a stream channel. As native and non-native biomass debris fall into the stream channel, wter flows are hindered. This despostion of biomass accumulates naturally; however, after wildfires, flash flooding events, or unlawful human activities (dumping), permits a large quantity of materials to build-up and block natural water flows. When water no longer flows downstream, the degradation and recycling of biomass is significantly slowed, disrupting the hydrology of the watershed. Ultimately, the entire native riparian habitat is altered, or completely lost.
The creation of the first Watershed Waste Recycling Station (WWRS) within an Angeles National Forest fire station will create a new protocol for proactively abating blocked stream channels with the special upper reaches of our natural watersheds. The primary impact of the WWRS on the Bouquet Canyon Watershed will be to significantly reduce debris, biomass, and pollution loads that hinder surface flows and reduce water quality.
Each Watershed Waste Recycling Station will serve as a 'proof of concept' for a new integrated watershed management plan in southern California. The stations will be tailored to the watershed's specific size, location, and pollution load. However, the overall goal remains the same: To restore natural surface waters, groundwater recharge, and protect the water resources for all living communities.
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