WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today Congresswoman Lois Capps announced the approval of $6,107,000 for operations and maintenance dredging in Ventura Harbor as part of the conference report on H.R. 3183, the Fiscal Year 2010 Energy and Water Appropriations bill. The conference report was approved yesterday by the by the U.S. House of Representatives by a vote of 308 to 114. Next week the legislation will be considered by the Senate and is expected to pass and go on to the President for his approval.

“Dredging Ventura Harbor is critical to maintaining our local economy, protecting vital infrastructure, and protecting the South Coast’s precious natural resources,” said Capps. “This funding will allow this annual dredging project to go forward. Ensuring access to our waterways and harbors, providing safe and secure recreational areas for our residents, and maintaining the health and vitality of our local economy will continue to be among my top priorities.”

Also at the request of Congresswoman Capps, the conference report includes $381,000 to continue a federal feasibility study of the Santa Clara River watershed. The Santa Clara River watershed is the largest watershed in Southern California, encompassing more than 1600 square miles and spanning both Ventura and Los Angeles counties.

Recognizing that continued urbanization in both Ventura and Los Angeles counties may affect the floodplain and environmental resources in the watershed, the Ventura County Watershed Protection District, Los Angeles County, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers have developed a feasibility study to identify flooding, erosion and sedimentation problems, and opportunities to improve water quality; analyze potential benefits and costs of restoring riparian habitat, recreational opportunities, and a regional flood protection capital facility plan within the watershed.

“As Ventura County continues to experience population growth and urbanization, it is important that we put in place plans to protect both public safety and our valuable environmental resources,” said Capps. “This funding will allow the study to move forward so that we can promote those dual goals and ensure our local governments have the data necessary to prevent future flooding, improve water quality, and protect critical habitat. I will continue my efforts to support this important endeavor.”