Innovative Readiness Training Project focused on reducing sediment loss
Avalon, Calif. – Catalina Island Conservancy said goodbye to the United States Marine Corps’ 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing after six weeks of very hard work on Catalina Island. Through a partnership with the Department of Defense Innovative Readiness Training (IRT) program, troops restored sections of Catalina’s roadways to improve sustainability.
The Conservancy determined sections of road that may be vulnerable to loss during weather events and focused on the overall sustainability of the road network.
“Key areas of concern were assigned to Marines, whose work follows best practices and engineering specifications that ideally suits our open space land environment on Catalina Island,” said Conservancy Chief Operating Officer, Tim Kielpinski. “It was great to see the Marines out here learning and improving, and we got the benefit of having them here and receiving a very good end product.”
Planning for the operation began in earnest in mid-December 2020 with site surveys, design and more. Marine Wing Support Squadron 373 out of Miramar safely deployed all personnel and equipment to Catalina, carrying out mission-essential training for nearly 50 Marines while improving critical infrastructure on the Island.
“To be able to come out and do this kind of work and leave a legacy – an imprint in something that helps the civilian population on Catalina Island – is special,” said Lieutenant Colonel Kurt A. Boyd, MWSS-373 Commander. “The Marines came out and did an engineering project on the roads and culverts, but for MWSS-373 as a whole, it was much bigger. Working on an island presented unique challenges that needed to be solved, so my entire staff was involved in making sure this engineering project came together. It was an incredible opportunity.”
Sections of road exceeding approximately 1.5 miles in length were restored, as well as five existing, failed culverts. Restoring roadways using updated practices improves long-term sustainability and reduces sediment loss. These roads are critically important for safety and access across the Island.
“The road network on Catalina Island is vital for Conservancy conservation, education and recreation programs, as well as Island resources including mail service, airport and key public safety access,” said Conservancy President & CEO Tony Budrovich. “The Marines have been a fantastic partner for this roads project and our 2019 runway repair project, both of which will benefit Catalina Island for years to come.”
For more information about Catalina Island Conservancy, visit CatalinaConservancy.org.
Formed in 1972, the Catalina Island Conservancy is one of California’s oldest land trusts. Its mission is to be a responsible steward of its lands through a balance of conservation, education and recreation.
Through its ongoing efforts, the Conservancy protects the magnificent natural and cultural heritage of Santa Catalina Island, stewarding more than 42,000 acres of land and more than 60 miles of rugged shoreline.
It provides an airport and 50 miles of biking and 165 miles of hiking opportunities within its road and trail system. The Conservancy conducts educational outreach through two nature centers, its Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden and guided experiences in the Island’s rugged interior. Twenty miles from the mainland, the Island is a treasure trove of historical and archaeological sites. It also contains numerous rare and endangered animals and plants.
The Island is home to more than 60 species that are found only on Catalina.
For additional information, please visit www.catalinaconservancy.org.