Cole Creek Flooding Crisis
Flooding, debris, and blocked waterways have turned Lake County's Cole Creek into a death trap for an endangered fish species. Meanwhile, homes and roads remain underwater for months.
Who We Are
We're a community of neighbors in Green Acres, Kelseyville. Many of us have lived here for decades, witnessing the situation worsen significantly in recent years. Floodwaters now remain on our properties for more than 6 months each year, damaging homes, roads, and severely impacting daily life and the local ecosystem.
Decades of Neglect
Cole Creek was rerouted by the Army Corps of Engineers decades ago. Since then, Lake County has performed almost no maintenance, allowing sediment and debris to accumulate. This negligence has turned Cole Creek into a flooded disaster, trapping residents and wildlife alike.
Endangered Fish, Empty Promises
Despite recognizing Cole Creek as vital for the survival of the endangered Clear Lake Hitch, Lake County authorities have repeatedly delayed the crucial work needed. Every year, tens of thousands of fish die due to stagnant floodwaters, yet the county still has not submitted a grant application for restoration planning.
Immediate Action Needed
Lake County must urgently complete and submit their restoration planning grant. Delays are unacceptable when funding is ready and the impacts of inaction so severe. Our homes, roads, and the survival of the Clear Lake Hitch depend on immediate action.