West Basin Municipal Water District released on Wednesday, Oct. 23, the final environmental impact report for an El Segundo desalination plant that would convert 20 million gallons per day of seawater into fresh drinking water.
David Rosenfeld | The Beach Reporter | Oct 23, 2019 | Access Original
The plant would sit on up to 13 acres next to the El Segundo Generating Station, at 301 Vista del Mar.
The final environmental report includes responses to more than 200 questions submitted during a 91-day public review period that ended June 25, 2018. The district board will consider certifying the report at a special board meeting at 3 p.m. Nov. 18 at Carson Event Center.
District officials have said the plant — which they have considered for more than a decade — is meant to help ensure water supply needs given the likelihood of future droughts. But conservation groups, including Los Angeles Waterkeeper, have opposed the plant, arguing that it’s energy intensive and negatively affects sea life.
“If and when they certify the final EIR, we have 30 days to file a lawsuit, which we are actively considering,” said Lindsey Jurca, spokeswoman for LA Waterkeeper.
If the district chooses to expand the facility to produce an additional 40 million gallons of freshwater to meet future regional needs, a supplemental environmental impact report would be required, according to Darryl Ramos, interim communications manager.
To review the final EIR, visit WestBasinDesal.com