The Malibu Lagoon State Beach Interpretive Association (DBAMalibu Lagoon Museum) has been working with California State Parks for over 28 years to interpretive the natural and cultural history of the Malibu Lagoon. The proposed Lagoon Restoration Project represents a significant opportunity to enhance the interpretive efforts at this unique park.
If implemented, the project will provide the public with substantial interpretive improvements, including new educational displays that relate to the important themes of the Lagoon including: Chumash history, surfing, and the unique natural history of the lagoon. A new walking path will allow park visitors to view many areas around the lagoon. A kelp-inspired shade structure provides practical utility while interpreting the inshore kelp forest. A topographic model of the watershed will help visitors better understand the relationship between the overall watershed and the lagoon. Our association regards the lagoon as a living classroom. During the past year, the association has provided “education through exploration” to approximately 1,100 elementary school students from the urban areas of Los Angeles County. We feel that the implementation of this project will enhance our ability to teach our students about the importance of Coastal Wetlands and the stewardship that is required to protect these unique areas.
We understand that during the construction phase the Lagoon will be temporarily impacted. In reviewing the benefits of this project we feel the long-term gains will exceed any short-term impacts. The project has been designed to improve the health of the Lagoon and restore the natural processes that have been impacted by past development. This restoration will help our docents explain the natural processes that occur in the Lagoon.
Our Board unanimously supports the Malibu Lagoon Restoration Project. We urge the Coastal Commission to approve the permit application and allow this project to be implemented as proposed.
Deborah Miller, president
Malibu Lagoon State Beach Interpretive Association
Friends of the Historic Adamson House and Malibu Lagoon Museum