Surveying Damage: Army Corps of Engineers Prepares for Cleanup
As the flames of the Eaton and Palisades fires begin to die down, a new challenge emerges for the residents of Malibu – the daunting task of clearing debris from the thousands of homes ravaged by the fires. With hazardous materials and toxic ash complicating the cleanup process, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has stepped in to lead the effort.
On Friday, a small convoy of Army Corps of Engineers members embarked on a survey of the charred properties lining the Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu. The scene they encountered was one of devastation – remnants of once-beautiful beachside homes reduced to chimneys and door frames.
A Somber Assessment
During the tour of the damaged neighborhood, officials from the Army Corps of Engineers assessed the magnitude of the work that lay ahead. Questions swirled in the air – could heavy machinery clear the sites, or would workers need to resort to hand tools? The proximity to the ocean added another layer of complexity, as contractors would need to spray down debris with water to mitigate potential hazards.
Debris Subject Matter Expert Cory Koger emphasized the need for caution, noting that the ash likely contained heavy metals and other toxic compounds. Maj. General Jason Kelly, deputy commanding general for civil works and emergency operations with the Corps, described the scene as “devastating,” acknowledging the personal toll it had taken on some Corps members who had lost their homes in the fires.
A Two-Step Cleanup Process
Col. Eric Swenson outlined the two-step process that would guide the cleanup operation. The Environmental Protection Agency would first tackle the removal of hazardous materials, such as batteries and automotive oils, before Los Angeles County could proceed with hauling out the rest of the debris. Swenson stressed the importance of working closely with residents throughout the process to ensure they understood the steps involved and the benefits they would receive.
Koger highlighted the unique challenges posed by the fires, particularly the presence of electric vehicles and solar panel batteries among the debris. As the cleanup operation unfolds, residents are encouraged to contact their home insurance providers to assess any potential impacts on their policies.
A Commitment to Rebuilding
While the road ahead may be long and arduous, the Army Corps of Engineers is dedicated to supporting the communities affected by the fires in their journey to rebuild. By clearing properties down to the foundation and removing ash from the surrounding soil, the Corps aims to provide residents with a fresh start as they work to restore their lives and livelihoods.
