El Modena Basin NTS sediment removal
Update: This project was completed on May 5, and the sluice has been opened to feed water back into the site. Water should be fully restored by the end of the month.
The El Modena Basin Natural Treatment System site is a manmade dry-weather urban runoff treatment facility in Orange that removes pollutants from water runoff to protect the environment.
The site underwent maintenance to remove accumulated sediment that had clogged and damaged the site. Without the removal, the site would not have been able to work as designed.
Now completed, the work done ensures the site will continue to clean dry weather runoff, protecting the environment and providing habitat for birds and other species while providing visual enjoyment for the community.
The project began in late March and was completed in early May. Due to the unanticipated weight and density of the sediment, initial work required removal by vacuum which is a slower process than what was originally planned.
To safeguard the animals at the site, a biologist was onsite to monitor the sediment removal and protect wildlife living there. Ducks and most turtles living at the pond were relocated.
Visit IRWD.com/nts to learn more about IRWD’s 47 Natural Treatment System sites. For questions regarding the project, email info@IRWD.com or call 949-453-5500.
Water from the site sluice began refilling the facility on May 5, and the pond should be fully restored by the end of the month.
Week of May 4: Work will be completed this week and the sluice opened to refill the facility. The pond should be fully restored by the end of the month.
Week of April 27: Sediment removal will begin this week.
Week of April 20: Riprap installation will continue through the end of this week. Sediment removal is scheduled for the week of April 27.
Week of April 13: Riprap installation will continue on Tuesday.
Week of April 6: Crews are continuing sediment removal by vacuum, and installing riprap to protect the slopes from collapsing.
Week of March 30: IRWD contractors started work on the project, which requires sediment removal by vacuum due to the weight and density of the sediment.
