WASHINGTON, D.C. –Today Congresswoman Lois Capps applauded the Senate’s vote to override President Bush’s veto of the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA), H.R. 1495.  Earlier this week Capps voted with 360 of her Republican and Democratic colleagues to override the President’s veto, with the measure passing by a vote of 361 to 54.  This important legislation authorizes water projects across the U.S. including the Matilija Dam Ecosystem Restoration Project in Ventura County.   Although WRDA is intended to be authorized every two years this legislation has not been enacted since 2000, creating a backlog of critical infrastructure projects requiring federal authorization. 

At the request of state and local officials, and other key stakeholders, Congresswoman Capps obtained an authorization of $144.5 million for the removal of Matilija Dam and restoration of the Ventura River.   The federal government's share of the removal and restoration project would be $89.7 million.

The Matilija Dam Ecosystem Restoration Project involves the removal of the Matilija Dam on a tributary of the Ventura River in order to reestablish runs of the endangered southern steelhead, reestablish the natural flow of sand flow to coastal beaches, and provide new recreational opportunities above the dam.  The project also involves removal of invasive plants along the river.

“I am pleased that the Senate has joined the House in overriding the President’s irresponsible veto of this strong bipartisan bill,” said Capps.  “This legislation will enhance the safety and security of millions of Americans by moving these critical infrastructure projects move forward.  The massive build-up of sediment behind Matilija Dam is causing numerous environmental problems, including beach erosion and threats to steelhead trout.  This legislation, and the funding I have previously secured for this project, will help ensure that the complete removal of the dam is carried out in a safe and environmentally sound manner.” 

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Pictured above: (center) Congresswoman Capps meets with Central Coast firefighters to discuss emergency preparedness.