HomeMy WebLinkAboutMINUTES - 10042011 - D.4RECOMMENDATION(S):
ADOPT Resolution No. 2011/411 declaring October 2011 as Creek and Channel Safety
Awareness Month; and
ACCEPT the following status report from the Public Works Department and the Contra
Costa County Flood Control & Water Conservation District (FC District) on the Creek and
Channel Safety Awareness Program (CCSAP); and
APPROVE the implementation plan and DIRECT the Public Works Department and the FC
District to continue with implementation and the annual campaign of a Countywide
sustainable CCSAP, including a follow-up report to this Board within one year.
FISCAL IMPACT:
The development of the CCSAP will cost approximately $100,000 to be funded by Flood
Control Zone 3B funds. Implementation is estimated to cost $250,000 and will be funded by
FC District and Flood Control Zone funds. Ongoing notices and maintenance will be
incorporated into existing programs funded by the FC District.
APPROVE OTHER
RECOMMENDATION OF CNTY ADMINISTRATOR RECOMMENDATION OF BOARD COMMITTEE
Action of Board On: 10/04/2011 APPROVED AS RECOMMENDED OTHER
Clerks Notes:
VOTE OF SUPERVISORS
AYE:John Gioia, District I Supervisor
Gayle B. Uilkema, District II
Supervisor
Mary N. Piepho, District III
Supervisor
Karen Mitchoff, District IV
Supervisor
ABSENT:Federal D. Glover, District V
Supervisor
Contact: Tim Jensen (925)
313-2390
I hereby certify that this is a true and correct copy of an action taken and entered on the minutes of the
Board of Supervisors on the date shown.
ATTESTED: October 4, 2011
David Twa, County Administrator and Clerk of the Board of Supervisors
By: Stacey M. Boyd, Deputy
cc: D. Twa, CAO, T. Geiger, County Counsel's Office, S. Hymes-Offord, Risk Management, B. Burkhart, CCTV, R. M. Avalon, Deputy Public Works
Director, T. Jensen, Flood Control, M. Parella, P. W. Administration, C. Windham, Flood Control
D. 4
To:Board of Supervisors
From:Transportation, Water & Infrastructure Commit
Date:October 4, 2011
Contra
Costa
County
Subject:Creek and Channel Safety Awareness Month and its Associated Program, Countywide. (100% Flood Control
District Funds) Project No. 7520-6B8311
BACKGROUND:
On March 1, 2011, the Board of Supervisors directed the FC District to develop a
sustainable and impactful outreach program to promote creek and channel safety
throughout the County, after the drowning of two high school students in the Walnut
Creek channel. In response, the FC District formed a CCSAP team that developed a
strategy to achieve this goal.
On May 10, 2011, the CCSAP was directed by this Board to develop program elements;
continue its outreach, development, and implementation; and referred the item to the
Transportation, Water and Infrastructure Committee.
On June 23, 2011, and September 14, 2011, respectively, the team met and reported to
the Transportation, Water and Infrastructure Committee. Updates and discussions during
these meetings were used to develop the implementation phase and finalize the program.
The process to develop the program elements and gather information, raw data, and input
from a myriad of sources is described in the attached June 23 Transportation, Water and
Infrastructure Committee report (Exhibit C).
Development of the CCSAP was divided into four phases, which are listed below with
their status:
Phase I — Data Gathering (complete)
Phase II — Assimilation of Data (complete)
Phase III — Develop Program Elements (complete)
Phase IV — Implementation (in progress as detailed below)
The following describes the program elements and activities that have been completed or
will be completed as part of the CCSAP implementation. The program elements and
activities are broken down into three categories. Direct Outreach and Media Outreach
involve providing safety information to individuals, organizations, agencies, districts, and
the various media outlets. Facility Upgrades include signage, stenciled messages,
inspections, enhanced swiftwater rescue planning and training, and investigation of
channel and drop structure safety.
Direct Outreach:
Direct outreach to school-aged children and their parents, in the form of an annual
information packet (Exhibit A), includes a cover letter explaining the safety program, a
school newsletter insert, and a schoolyard safety announcement. The information packet
is designed to be easy for the schools to implement. This year’s packet was sent through
school communication channels across the County in September 2011. This bilingual
packet was sent directly to and/or made available to over 95 school groups (19 school
district superintendents representing all 240+ public schools, 75 private schools, and
several homeschool group e-mail networks). Feedback requested from the schools will be
used to make any necessary adjustments for the following year’s packet. In subsequent
years, the information packet will be sent to the schools just before October of each year.
Direct outreach to technical/partner agencies who were contacted during the information
gathering phase will take place this fall. The FC District maintains a presence in at least
15 such organizations and will include a statement regarding implementation of the
CCSAP at regularly scheduled meetings.
The Contra Costa Water District has agreed to include the CCSAP message in their
newsletters and school assembly presentations. They are also a potential partner when
they create their new safety video in the near future. Staff from both agencies will
continue to meet and finalize the details for implementation.
The County Watershed Program has placed the CCSAP message into their 2012 calendar,
which will be sent to all residents in the unincorporated County this fall (over 50,000
households).
The FC District is creating an informational brochure with the CCSAP message, which is
anticipated to be distributed by the end of the year.
Media Outreach:
The kickoff event each year for ongoing outreach efforts will be the Board declaring
October as Creek and Channel Safety Awareness Month. Media outreach will take the
form of an annual press release, articles in local publications throughout the County, and
media sound bites coordinated by the County Public Information Officer. These pieces
will be timed for distribution in early October each year as part of the Creek and Channel
Safety Awareness Month. In addition, samples of the articles will be available on the
Creek and Channel Safety Awareness Program page on the County website in a
downloadable format for use by any organization. Links to the website and the web
address will be part of all publications.
Media outreach will also take place via video media and social networking sites. Staff
will work with Contra Costa Television, students, and volunteers to develop a visual
media outreach plan to be implemented by February 2012.
Facility Upgrades:
New signs (Exhibit B) will be installed this fall in phases beginning with the downtown
Walnut Creek area. The new signs will be installed next to existing “NO
TRESPASSING” signs and at other locations visible to the general public, as well as
specific sites where illegal entry is likely to occur. Additional new signs will be installed
as maintenance crews work through the remainder of the flood control system (75 miles
of channels and 30 detention basins) performing regular maintenance in 2012.
The existing “STAY OUT/STAY ALIVE” stenciled messages within various flood
control channels will be refreshed and additional messages will be located and positioned
to be more visible to the general public as well as at specific sites where attempted entry
would likely occur.
New interpretive panels discussing the benefits and dangers of flood control channels will
be developed for installation next year at locations where public uses are adjacent to the
channel. Currently, East Bay Regional Park District manages public trails along creeks
and channels Countywide, so they will be involved in the development, installation, and
maintenance of new interpretive panels.
Notification of needed repairs to fencing, signs, and stenciled messages will be tracked
via the department’s customer service tracking program and given priority for response.
Repeat incidents will be investigated and followed up on to determine if modifications
should be made to increase public awareness or public safety. The fencing, signs, and
stenciled messages will be inspected biennially throughout FC District channels and
basins and replaced as needed.
A formal agreement between Contra Costa County Fire Protection District (CCCFPD)
and the FC District will be submitted for approval by the Board in October 2011. This
proposed agreement will allow rescue personnel access to FC District channels within
their service area (Central County) for swiftwater rescue planning and training. It is
anticipated that the CCCFPD will include other first responders within their service area
as part of their rescue planning and training. The FC District will also contact rescue
agencies outside the CCCFPD service area to determine their interest in developing a
similar program and assist as needed.
Proposed channel modifications to facilitate escape or reduce risk at drop structures will
be investigated via outside technical consultants. The scope of work will be determined
this fall and the consultants will be hired in spring 2012 with recommendations
anticipated in the summer of 2012. These recommendations will help to determine
feasibility, funding needs, and potential implementation of any modifications.
Staff recommends that the Board declare October as Creek and Channel Safety
Awareness Month, accept the above report, approve the proposed implementation plan,
and direct the Public Works Department and FC District to implement the plan, including
a follow-up report to the Board within one year.
CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION:
Members of the public may not receive important information about creek and channel
safety.
CHILDREN'S IMPACT STATEMENT:
The FC District will continue to work with the schools and youth-based groups within the
County to educate children about safety regarding creeks and flood control channels.
ATTACHMENTS
Resolution No. 2011/411
Exhibit A
Exhibit B
Exhibit C
Exhibit A
SCHOOL NEWSLETTER
Send to Schools in August/September
For distribution in early October
October is
Creek and Channel Safety Awareness Month
In support of the Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District’s ongoing
efforts to educate the public on creek and channel safety, the Contra Costa County Board of
Supervisors has declared this October to be the first Creek and Channel Safety Awareness
Month. We must take advantage of this opportunity to speak to our children and friends about
the dangers of fast moving stormwater and the almost certain fate that awaits anyone who
goes into rain swollen creeks and channels. The flood control channels are part of our
community’s infrastructure and, like freeways or railroad tracks, should never be used for
recreation.
The flood control channels are designed to drain stormwater from our communities and take it
swiftly “out to sea”, preventing flooding. Water from the surrounding watershed area first
gathers in small streams and creeks and then flows into the large channels for a swift trip to the
Delta, Carquinez Strait and San Pablo Bay. This stormwater can pass from small open creeks to
large underground tunnels; from narrow rocky stream beds to wide concrete channels; all the
while gathering debris, speed, volume and power. At key points along the way, large structures
have been built into the system to slow down the water and control the power. This allows the
water to flow back into wide earthen channels without destroying their natural habitat or
causing erosion. These structures are an efficient tool in managing our floodwaters but can be
deadly for humans.
This annual campaign is to remind us that, like thinking of sunscreen in the Spring, we must
become aware of the dangers around us and take the necessary steps to educate ourselves and
our children to avoid them. Please talk to your children and friends about the flood control
channels. Appreciate the great job they do for our community, but leave the channels to
stormwater and Stay Out, Stay Alive!
For more information please visit:
www.cccounty.us/creekandchannelsafety
Exhibit A
SUGGESTED PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT FOR
SCHOOLS / RADIO
Send to Schools in August/September
For PA announcements as dictated by the weather
For Radio sound bite as dictated by the weather
About 15 seconds running time
Here is a friendly safety reminder from Contra Costa County Flood
Control and Water Conservation District. With the rainy season upon
us – our normally calm creeks and channels can become full of swift
moving water and debris without warning.
Please Stay Out of the creeks and channels and
Stay Alive!
For more information please visit the website
www.cccounty.us/creekandchannelsafety
Exhibit A
SUGGESTED WEBSITE POSTING FOR SCHOOLS
Send to Schools in August/September
For posting as dictated by the weather
G:\fldctl\Creek and Channel Safety Awareness Program\Media Items\Stay Safe by Staying Out Alert.docx
CREEK AND CHANNEL ALERT
Extended periods of rain are in the forecast.
Waters will be rising in the creeks and channels.
Take a moment to appreciate the great job creeks
and channels do to protect our community
and protect yourself -
For more information please visit the website
www.cccounty.us/creekandchannelsafety
Exhibit A
FOR DISTRIBUTION TO SCHOOLS
Send to Schools in August/September
October is
Creek and Channel Safety Awareness Month
Dear School Administrator:
Thank you for taking the time to review the attached creek and channel safety information and
including it in your correspondence with students and families.
As part of the safety awareness program, the Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water
Conservation District has also created a 3’ X 6’ banner (shown below) that is being made
available to schools on or near Flood Control facilities.
If you are interested in receiving a banner to post annually, please put BANNER REQUEST in
the subject line and e-mail:
YOUR NAME
PHONE NUMBER
SCHOOL
COMPLETE MAILING ADDRESS
To: Michelle Parella
Administrative Services Assistant II
Contra Costa County Public Works
mpare@pw.cccounty.us
(925) 313-2249
Exhibit A
"Accredited by the American Public Works Association"
255 Glacier Drive Martinez, CA 94553-4825
TEL: (925) 313-2000 FAX: (925) 313-2333
www.cccpublicworks.org
Memo
DATE: June 23, 2011
TO: Transportation, Water, and Infrastructure Committee
Supervisor Mary N. Piepho, District III, Chair
Supervisor Karen Mitchoff, District IV, Vice Chair
FROM: Julia R. Bueren, Chief Engineer,
CCC Flood Control and Water Conservation District
SUBJECT: Status report on Creek and Channel Safety Awareness Program
Recommendation
Consider status report on development of an implementation plan for the Creek and
Channel Safety Awareness Program (CCSAP) and provide feedback to staff.
Financial Impact
There is no impact to the County General Fund. Development, implementation, and
management of the CCSAP is funded by Flood Control District funds.
Background
On May 10, 2011 the Board of Supervisors directed the Public Works Department and
Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District (FC District) to
report to the TWIC regarding work on the CCSAP, complete the Data Gathering (Phase I)
and Assimilation of Data (Phase II) phases, and identify those elements that are essential
to a successful, sustainable, and County-wide safety awareness program. The attached
CCSAP Consolidated Timeline shows the actions taken to date to interact with the
community in developing this program.
Phase I – Initial Data Gathering – completed in May 2011
This effort began by forming a five person team consisting of two FC District engineers
and an administrative assistant, the Public Works Department Public Information Officer
Exhibit C
(PIO), and the County PIO. This team developed the program objectives and timelines.
The program objective is to develop a sustainable awareness program/campaign with
messages that resonate with all audiences to achieve understanding of creek and
channel hazards/dangers. In an effort to seek input from a broad spectrum of people
and organizations, the team identified five major groups to work with; students, school
administration, partner/technical agencies, the community, and interested individuals.
The team realized that no comprehensive creek and channel safety program existed
within the County, so the first steps taken were to contact and discuss our objective
with more than fifteen partner/technical agencies including Contra Costa Water District,
Bay Area Flood Protection Agencies Association, LA County Flood Control, and US Army
Corps of Engineers, to see what programs might already exist that could be duplicated.
We found that very few agencies have a creek and channel safety program.
Following that step, the team initiated a public outreach campaign that included a slide
show presentation and discussion format, which eventually reached more than 15
groups. We chose to meet with two PTA groups, two student focus groups, as well as
the community in general (attended by more than 30 citizens), all in Walnut Creek, to
hear from those most impacted by the tragedy of the two teenage boys. This last
meeting was televised on CCTV and written about in the Walnut Creek newsletter, The
Patch.
To expand the outreach to the entire County, a letter was sent to the Superintendent of
Schools and the superintendents of the 19 school districts within the County, requesting
information on any programs they might already have in place, and input regarding the
kind of information their audience would respond to. We received good feedback from
this effort.
During this time, a web link to the County web site was established to provide a contact
for ongoing community input and to post all public information regarding this program.
The attached CCSAP Data Gathering Results Assimilated by Categories document is the
compilation of the many suggestions that were made by category of implementation.
Phase II – Assimilation of Data
The team first developed a process to categorize and evaluate the responses. This led
to recommended implementation measures for each category, where applicable, then
Exhibit C
an evaluation of their feasibility.
Existing safety program: The existing safety program for Public Works and FC District
facilities consists of chain-link fencing, signs, and safety education for those granted
permission to enter.
Chain-link fencing and entry points: This type of fencing was installed along FC District
channels per the standards of the US Army Corps of Engineers, the agency who installed
the fencing, to prevent unauthorized access. The fencing, along with all other elements
of the flood protection facility is inspected each year during a joint inspection with the
US Army Corps of Engineers. The type of fencing, locations, height, and security are
adequate; however, the fence can be climbed over or bypassed by someone determined
to do so. It is not feasible to make a high enough fence or close every potential entry
point, especially since small private creeks need to connect into the FC District channels.
Closing the creek entry points blocks water flow and could lead to flooding. The fencing
is also inspected by county staff on an ongoing basis based on drive-by inspections,
noticed during other work in the area, or reported by citizens. We propose improving
the inspection program to better log and track fence issues.
Signage: Upon installation of the existing chain-link fences, “No Trespassing” signs were
installed at gates and other locations. These signs are often damaged, have been
removed, or are covered with graffiti. Feedback from the community indicates these
signs are not sufficient to communicate the personal risks of entering the flood
protection facility. We propose to develop new signs with community input, especially
high school students, which will have a better impact. The new signs will be installed at
potential entry points starting this fall and phased in over time. The potential entry
points and other sign locations will be evaluated this summer.
In 1991, after a drowning incident in Walnut Creek, the FC District stenciled large red
lettering stating, “STAY OUY, STAY ALIVE” at visible locations on the concrete channel
walls. These signs are not easily visible at many potential entry points, and have faded
over time. We propose to refresh the existing stencils and add new locations this fall
based on an assessment of visibility from potential entry points.
We propose to improve the current inspection program to better log and track signage
issues, which will provide for an ongoing sustainable program.
Exhibit C
Safety education for permittees: Contractors, utility companies, homeowners, schools,
and non-profit groups obtain permission to enter FC District facilities via application for
an encroachment permit. The permit requirements include a basic statement about the
risks associated with entering the facility and a liability release form. The language in
these will be revised to include emergency contact information and a more direct safety
message.
Various messages: When communicating with the public regarding creek and channel
issues, we have typically focused either on caring for the creek by working in it, or
staying out of the creek due to risks. We are looking at our brochures and other venues
to determine how to balance both messages. For example, we will be adding the CCSAP
website address and contact information to the 2012 Watershed Calendar. This
calendar is mailed to 54,000 residents annually. This fall, we will present the Board of
Supervisors with a resolution to declare October as Creek and Channel Safety Month,
and plan to include this declaration on the October 2012 page of the calendar.
Knowledge gaps and education: Our data gathering phase revealed that very few in the
community are aware of the location, purpose, and risks of FC District creeks and
channels. We propose to increase this knowledge in various ways. One key element of
our program will be the use of the CCSAP web page established in March, 2011 on the
County web site. As documents, brochures, bulletins, and videos are created for the
CCSAP, they will continue to be posted in downloadable format for use by any
interested party. In addition, every educational or outreach piece will include a
reference to the CCSAP web page; www.cccounty.us/creekandchannelsafety
To reach school children and their parents we will leverage the assistance of the County
Superintendent of Schools, the 19 school district superintendents, and private school
and home school contacts. An annual media / bulletin packet will be sent for
distribution to the schools in the fall. This packet will include an article for school
newsletters, a warning/advertisement that can be posted on the school website, audio
script for school announcements over the PA system, and a press release/bulletin for
standalone inclusion in packets sent home to parents.
Beginning in late summer and continuing into the fall, we will work with Los Lomas High
School students and Contra Costa Television to develop a short video with a safety
message. This video could be part of a class project or contest. It will be distributed
widely via Contra Costa TV, Contra Costa County’s website, Facebook, YouTube, the
Exhibit C
Creek and Channel Safety Awareness Program website, etc.
Contra Costa Water District has agreed to help communicate our safety message. They
have an existing outreach program and personnel who provide school presentations
regarding canal safety upon request. Although their canals are for drinking water and
our creeks and channels are for storm water, our facilities and messages are so similar
that our message fits easily into their presentations. We have met with them and are
developing our collaborative effort. Specifically, this will include a creek and channel
safety message in CCWD’s annual “On Tap” newsletter, “Blue, the Canal K9” brochures,
and school assemblies.
Various other media outlets, including local government and educational TV, blogs such
as Patch, City Newsletters (including the Walnut Creek Nutshell), County Clips, the
Contra Costa Fire Department website, etc. will be utilized to broadcast our safety
message to as many people in the County as possible during October to coincide with
the start of the rainy season. In addition, news releases and media events will be
scheduled as needed.
Rescue Operations: A coordinated effort is underway between the FC District and
Contra Costa Fire, Sheriff, and Walnut Creek Police to have access points and training for
water rescue in our channels. We anticipate that this effort will reach full
implementation prior to October, and will expand to the remainder of the County. Ideas
such as maintaining water rescue equipment in emergency vehicles and providing life
rings accessible at specific rescue points are being explored.
Channel Modifications: Community members requested we look into modifications to
the channels to facilitate escape, and modifications to the drop structures to decrease
risk of injury. These features appear to be problematic, but are still under
consideration. Modifications to the drop structures will be explored via outside
technical experts with their recommendations anticipated next year. Modifications
could be extensive, thus being costly and taking time to implement. The
recommendations will undergo extensive review for feasibility and development of
funding strategies.
Phase III – Implementation
The CCSAP team developed the attached proposed CCSAP Consolidated Timeline for
implementing specific items of the program. Each item will involve a feedback loop to
Exhibit C
measure the success of the implementation. Sustainability will be evaluated for each
item and adjustments made as necessary to achieve ongoing success. This
implementation phase is currently under development and will be more fully defined by
August.
Based on feedback from the TWI Committee, we would like to return at the August 10,
2011 meeting to provide our final recommendations.
Consequences of Negative Action
Members of the public may not receive important information about creek and channel
safety.
Exhibit C
CREEK AND CHANNEL SAFETY AWARENESS PROGRAM
Consolidated Timeline
February 2011 - January 2012
Date Action Contact
19-Feb-11 Walnut Creek Channel Incident Mitch
24-Feb-11 Meeting with Risk Management
1-Mar-11 Board of Supervisors (SD10)Mitch
3-Mar-11 CCSAP Meeting Mitch
3-Mar-11 Media Advisory Sent Carrie
9-Mar-11 Meeting w/CC Watershed Forum Mitch
14-Mar-11 Meeting w/FC Mntce & Cnty Cnsl
15-Mar-11 Sheriff's Marine Patrol Tim
16-Mar-11 CCC Fish & Wildlife Comm Mitch
17-Mar-11 Meeting with Las Lomas Principal Mitch
17-Mar-11 City-County Engineers (CCEAC)
17-Mar-11 Press Release - 3/29 meeting Carrie
17-Mar-11 Site Survey - WC FC Channel Tim
17-Mar-11 BAFPAA Mitch
18-Mar-11 APWA Mitch
21-Mar-11 CCSAP Meeting Mitch
22-Mar-11 Website Link Established Carrie
22-Mar-11 Site Visit - WC Library & Drop II Carrie
23-Mar-11 Cnty Eng Adv. Comm (CEAC)Mitch
28-Mar-11 Press Release to BOS Mitch
28-Mar-11 CCSAP Meeting Tim
28-Mar-11 Los Lomas Student Meeting I Mitch
29-Mar-11 Community Meeting - WC Library Mitch
4-Apr-11 CCSAP Meeting Tim
5-Apr-11 Los Lomas High School Paper Michelle
11-Apr-11 CCSAP Meeting Tim
11-Apr-11 Los Lomas PTSA Mitch
11-Apr-11 Letter to Superintendents Michelle
14-Apr-11 WCI meeting w/Principal Carrie
14-Apr-11 PMA Meeting Mitch
18-Apr-11 CCSAP Meeting Tim
19-Apr-11 WCI Student leadership meeting Mitch
21-Apr-11 CCEAC Mitch
2-May-11 CCSAP Tim
9-May-11 CCSAP Tim
10-May-11 Board of Supervisors Mitch
12-May-11 Murwood Elementary Tim
16-May-11 Los Lomas Student Meeting II Mitch
17-May-11 CCWD Tim
18-May-11 WCI PTA Meeting Mitch
23-May-11 CCSAP Tim
27-May-11 Las Lomas "The Page" Article
1-Jun-11 CCSAP Tim
9-Jun-11 CCSAP Tim
9-Jun-11 Post TWIC Meeting on Website Carrie
Exhibit C
CREEK AND CHANNEL SAFETY AWARENESS PROGRAM
Consolidated Timeline
February 2011 - January 2012
Date Action Contact
23-Jun-11 TWIC Mitch, Mike, Tim
June Update website with maps/links/video/photos/PowerPoint Carrie
June Meet with GSD – Maintenance to determine schedule and feasibility of
facility fencing and sign Tim
June Trail and No Trespassing sign design/cost/lead time T. Leary -W County Jail, Tim
June Follow-up on items from 6/23 TWIC Tim
25-Jun-11 East Bay Family Day Tim, D. Jordan - Watershed
June/July Contact Las Lomas students for input on sign design
4-Jul-11 Office closed July 1-4
July Finalize work on Watershed Caledar: "October is Creek and Channel Safety
Month"
July Follow-up with GSD - Maintenance Tim
1-Aug-11 Send letter and media package to CCCOE, 19 Superintendents and private
schools including letter from Ovick/Uilkema/PWD Carrie/Betsy
10-Aug-11 TWIC Meeting (9:30-11am)Tim
August Coordinate with Marianne Hook for inclusion in Fall version of CCWD “On
Tap” newsletter Betsy/Marianne
August Prepare and submit County Clips piece Carrie/Betsy
August Begin structural review for Bancroft Drop Structure Mike
22-Aug-11 SCHOOL STARTS
29-Aug-11 Begin raw video shoots w/CCTV and Las Lomas students Tim/Betsy
29-Aug-11 Follow-up with Superintendents to ensure message was received and Carrie
September Finalize and send Fall Press Release Betsy
September New sign installation to begin
14-Sep-11 TWIC Meeting (9:30-11am)Tim
4-Oct-11 BOS declares October 2011 as Creek and Channel Safety Month
4-Oct-11 Report back to BOS on status of Creek and Channel Safety Awareness
Program
8-Nov-11 BOS Meeting
Nov Obtain feedback from school districts
Nov Develop brochure of CCSAP or revise existing FC brochure
Nov Training for CCCFPD, WC and Concord PD
1-Jan-12 Press Release for 1 year Anniversary Betsy/Carrie
Exhibit C
CREEK AND CHANNEL SAFETY AWARENESS PROGRAM
Data Gathering Results Assimilated by Categories
June 2011
(The following pages represent all data collected during public outreach organized into task oriented categories)
1
Structure: Signage
Provide clear signage that states the dangers and consequences.
Add to sign consequences for trespassing – $ fine / go to jail
Update the “No Trespassing”. Signs are not enough; too generic, no real message about danger, looks like
property issue not a safety issue, the monetary fine for trespassing is not enough of a deterrent.
Place signs in places where you’re not supposed to be.
Bilingual
SKULL AND CROSS BONES –something more visual, “this is different, pay attention”
STAY OUT, STAY ALIVE signs on fence
Make signs more personal:
REMEMBER MATT & GAVIN
TEENAGERS HAVE DROWNED IN THIS CREEK
STAY OUT – STAY ALIVE
NO WAY OUT
NO TRESPASSING – IT COULD COST YOU YOUR LIFE
THIS CREEK HAS TAKEN LIVES, DON’T LET IT TAKE YOURS
FATAL WATERS: THIS CREEK HAS TAKEN #_ LIVES
Repaint STAY OUT, STAY ALIVE (painted in 1991)
Repaint signs on the channel walls – different color/size (“lived near creek all my life and just noticed them…”)
Paint “Stay Out – Stay Alive”, Slogans on the channel walls –make it look like kids did it (not graffiti – but
artistic)
Paint sign in channel near WCI bridge: STAY OUT, STAY ALIVE
Install Story Board @ main intersections where people are allowed to go – like interpretive signs at trailheads
Develop sign that shows the bridge, drop structure, Broadway extension “tunnel, water level
Install signage at major entry points – if no fence, should have heavy signage
Information signs: “Accidents have happened here”/ facts – water speed, depth, pressure, fall or drop height/
“Designed for turbulence” – energy dissipation-mortality rate
Picture of what would happen – cartoon showing people tumbling in the water/turbulence
Show how fast the water is moving
“For your own safety” on the fence
“Enter at your own risk” on the fence
Place sign on WCI bridge: “Remember Matt and Gavin: STAY OUT, STAY ALIVE”
Structure: Barriers/Fencing
Quarterly inspection of fencing and signage – repair any damaged fencing
Easy access, need more fences
Can’t fence all water ways – put fences around channel but not streams
Install guard rail at Mt. Diablo Road overcrossing chain link is not enough. Looks like a parking lot – need to
install guard rail or yellow poles to reduce confusion (2010 crash site)
Structure: Channel Features
NO WAY OUT
Create a way out: install handles, something to hold on to, ropes at intervals
Create barriers and blockers to slow down the water sooner (more gradually)
Increase the clearance in channel under Broadway Plaza (high flow conditions would make it impossible to
go through the tunnel)
Install safety line on walls – painted line @ 1’, 2’; – “if it hits that mark” don’t go there
Install lock boxes accessible to police, fire, PW that hold life rings and ropes; position a key locations
Coordinate with and train rescue personnel to improve probability of rescue
Exhibit C
CREEK AND CHANNEL SAFETY AWARENESS PROGRAM
Data Gathering Results Assimilated by Categories
June 2011
(The following pages represent all data collected during public outreach organized into task oriented categories)
2
Structure: Drop Structure
Re-engineer the drop structure so that it is not certain death
Soften the tops of the columns
Fence above the energy dissipater
Name the drop structure – The Keeper, The Blocker, The Killer…
Have a “Name the Drop Structure” contest
Media/Education : Message
Answer the question: “What would discourage you from going in?”
Harness the emotion – make the message personal and realistic. Real accidents, real people
Careful of mixed message: creek clean-up vs. entering the creek during high flow
The water is moving quickly and can sweep you off your feet and pull you under
“Sudden immersion in cold water can stimulate the “gasp reflex” causing an involuntary inhalation of air or
water. It can even trigger cardiac arrest, temporary paralysis, hypothermia and drowning. When faced
with swift water, even the strongest swimmers may be easily overwhelmed.”
Cold water causes impairment leading to fatalities. It reduces body heat 25-30 times faster than air does at
the same temperature.
The water in the channel is cold and hypothermia is real and fast
The creek feeds directly into the flood control channels. There are no barriers to entry and NO WAY OUT once
you are in.
There is NO WAY OUT
Many unseen obstacles can be in the water including trees, rocks and urban garbage. Swift water can make
these obstacles even more treacherous.
No Trespassing because it’s dangerous and it’s the law.
People have lost their lives in the Flood Control Channels: Matt and Gavin story
This is not the place to challenge the water/rapids. Thrill seek elsewhere. You don’t want to be here.
The creeks are part of our eco system. They deserve our care and respect, stay out during high flow.
The creeks and channels can be dangerous – they are no place to play.
Message should be bilingual.
Media /Education : Medium
Print:
Signs
Fence
Trail Head
Bridge Banner – hang during October/ Ribbon in February
Bulletin
Classroom – elementary/middle/high flyer: names and ages of drowning victims
School paper- middle/high
Weekly/monthly newsletter
Brochure – Public/schools/ PW counter/on-line
Poster Contest
Letter to residents/people who live along the FC channel
Audio:
Radio
Public Service announcement geared toward parents
(Radio person contacted PW and offered services)
Audio announcements (school)
emergency service bulletins – radio/geared for heavy rain
classroom – elementary/middle/high
curriculum
Exhibit C
CREEK AND CHANNEL SAFETY AWARENESS PROGRAM
Data Gathering Results Assimilated by Categories
June 2011
(The following pages represent all data collected during public outreach organized into task oriented categories)
3
assembly
Visual:
WCTV/CCTV – alert in between or during BOS programming
City of WC making a video to broadcast (show how fast the water is moving)
Emergency service bulletin for Internet/Subscription
Create a video for use in classroom / on community tv
Person harnessed standing in 12” & 2’ & 3’ of water, describe how it feels, what’s happening
Stage event near WCI once every 3 years (e.g. educational event) student video, etc.
Channel looks fine, nice path in but NO WAY OUT once you’re inside
Show walking, riding bikes, going into the creeks and channels, and then show what’s around the bend
– the creek looks safe and easy – but it can quickly change
Simulate the environment, what it really looks like
Show the drop structure, pool of water (describe depth)
How to survive if you do fall in (Used to have more ladders, but people interpreted this as an invitation)
Video the Diablo or Bancroft Drop Structures
Webinar – informational and educational video/visual/moving include tunnels, drop structure
Create excitement by having maintenance vehicles driving in the channel
Communicate the force of the water in a visual way – demonstrate the power
Use video with audio vs. Power Point to show rushing water at peak flow, drop structure
OUTREACH GROUPS: Who are we speaking to?
Program needs to speak to everyone in the County. Not everyone knows Matt and Gavin. Re-tell their story.
Explain the dangers to the people who didn’t know them.
Parents (newsletter home, e-mail, internet/postcards)
Elementary, Middle and High School students/ Public and private school
3rd grade, 5th grade, Age 13, Age 33, need to cover the generational gap
Boy and Girl Scouts
Church and youth groups
New Residents/new homeowners along the FC channel
Community, agencies
Creek Clean Up – Be Aware of Dangers – right time vs wrong time
People who use the trails (coordinate with EBRPD bike to work events)
People who live near the creeks (FC District mailer)
OUTREACH PARTNERS: Who can help us spread the word?
County Clips (Betsy Burkhart)
Community Coordinating Council (www.cccoe.k12.ca.us/edsvcs/coordcouncil.html)
Schools / High School Students – include the kids in PTSA/target the right audience
Boy and Girl Scouts
Rafting and white water training – appropriate with a guide on a river but NOT in FC channel...EVER
Lindsay Wildlife Museum – marsh and creek walks / Friends of the Creek
CCC Search and Rescue/ First Responders
East Bay Regional Parks District
CCWD (already has an existing program and is on-board with FC) / Central Sanitation
Reinstate program in schools like Walnut Creek Intermediate
Sports stores
Skate parks
Walnut Creek TV
Walnut Creek Police Department
Exhibit C
C. 8
To:Board of Supervisors
From:Julia R. Bueren, Public Works Director/Chief
Engineer
Date:April 26, 2011
Contra
Costa
County
Subject:Status report on Creek and Channel Safety Awareness, Countywide. (100% Flood Control Zone
3B Funds) Project No. 7520-6B8311
RECOMMENDATION(S):
ACCEPT the following status report from the Public Works Department and the Contra Costa County Flood
Control and Water Conservation District (FC District) on the Creek and Channel Safety Awareness Program; and
DIRECT the Public Works Department and the FC District to continue its outreach, development, and
implementation of a sustainable Creek and Channel Safety Awareness Program (CCSAP); and
REFER this effort to develop a CCSAP to the Transportation, Water, and Infrastructure Committee (TWIC); and
DIRECT the Public Works Department and the FC District to report to the TWIC upon completion of data
assimilation and report back to the Board upon development of implementation recommendations by October of
this year.
APPROVE OTHER
RECOMMENDATION OF CNTY ADMINISTRATOR RECOMMENDATION OF BOARD COMMITTEE
Action of Board On: 05/10/2011 APPROVED AS RECOMMENDED OTHER
Clerks Notes:
VOTE OF SUPERVISORS
AYES NOES
ABSENT ABSTAIN
RECUSE
Contact: Tim Jensen (925) 313-2390
I hereby certify that this is a true and correct
copy of an action taken and entered on the
minutes of the Board of Supervisors on the date
shown.
ATTESTED: May 10,
2011
David J. Twa, County
Administrator and Clerk
of the Board of
Supervisors
By: June McHuen, Deputy
cc: D. Twa, CAO, T. Geiger, County Counsel, S. Hymes-Offord, Risk Management, B. Burkhart, CCTV, R.M.
Avalon, Deputy Public Works Director, T. Jensen, Flood Control, C. Windham, Flood Control
5
Exhibit C
FISCAL IMPACT:
The data collection, assimilation, and development of implementation recommendations for the CCSAP will cost
approximately $140,000 to be funded by Flood Control Zone 3B funds. Implementation will be funded by the FC
District funds and/or regional Flood Control Zone funds.
BACKGROUND:
On March 1, 2011, the Board of Supervisors directed the FC District to develop a sustainable, impactful outreach
program to promote creek and channel safety throughout the County. In response, the FC District formed a Creek and
Channel Safety Awareness Program (CCSAP) team that developed a strategy to achieve this goal.
The Walnut Creek schools and community have been the primary resource of the information gathering process.
Although the program will be implemented countywide, we have chosen to work first with this group following the
February 2011 drowning incident.
Purpose
In an effort to seek input from a broad spectrum of people and organizations, the CCSAP team has identified five (5)
major focus groups. The five groups are students, school administrators, partner/technical agencies, the community at
large, and individuals with a special interest in the topic. A web link to the County website was established and all
public noticing has been posted at www.cccounty.us/creekandchannelsafety.
The goal and purpose of this process is to increase public awareness about creek and channel safety in the most
efficient and effective manner. To this end, the FC District is working to develop a sustainable program that leverages
existing safety programs to deliver a message that resonates with the focus audiences.
Process
The CCSAP has been categorized into three phases: Data Gathering, Assimilation of Data, and Implementation.
Phase I – Data Gathering
To date, the FC District has met with representatives from each of the five focus groups to educate them about the
process, gather their input, and document their concerns about a sustainable Creek and Channel Safety Awareness
Program. Below is a summary of the data gathering phase to date:
Students:
1. Met with the Las Lomas High School Principal, students, and school newspaper editor on March 2, 2011, to
brainstorm methods of outreach and receive input from high school students on a safety awareness program. A
follow-up meeting with the Las Lomas High School students is scheduled for May 16, 2011.
2. Met with the Walnut Creek Intermediate School (WCI) Principal to discuss outreach to middle school students
followed by a presentation and brainstorming session with the student leadership class on April 19, 2011.
School Administration:
1. Attended Las Lomas Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA) meeting on April 11, 2011, and presented
information on FC District channels and creeks. Received input from the PTSA on ways to outreach to students and a
request to hold a “Parent Education Night” that might include other high schools in the area.
2. Sent a letter to the County Office of Education and all County School District Superintendents requesting
information on safety programs already in place as well as input on our safety awareness program.
3. Communicated with teachers at Walnut Creek’s Murwood Elementary School who volunteered to be part of the
education process.
Technical/Partner Agencies: Contacted several public agencies to request input about what types of safety programs
they have in place and their effectiveness. Agencies included Contra Costa Water District, US Army Corps of
Engineers, Federal Emergency Management Agency, Bay Area Flood Protection Agencies Association, Bay Area
Watershed Network, Los Angeles County Department of Public Works, Contra Costa Watershed Forum, East Bay
Regional Park District, American Public Works Association, County Engineers Association of California, Contra
Costa City-County Engineering Advisory Committee, Contra Costa Public Managers’ Association, Walnut Creek
Police Department, Contra Costa County Sheriff, Consolidated Fire District, and others.
Exhibit C
Community: Held a community meeting on March 29, 2011, in Walnut Creek, hosted by the City of Walnut Creek
and the FC District. The meeting was attended by 34 community members as well as City of Walnut Creek, Public
Works, and Board of Supervisors and Senator DeSaulnier’s staff. The community meeting was filmed and has been
rebroadcast several times on CCTV.
Individuals: Received e-mails and voice mails from individuals with a desire to help with the process and provide
input. We received a technical report, links to various internet videos, as well as an offer of free radio time and
production.
The information gathering process for the students, school administration, and community has typically involved a
meeting format where a general description of the FC District is explained, followed by a Power Point presentation
that shows local creeks and channels, both empty and full. The discussion includes an explanation of the natural creek
environment compared to a concrete channel and drop structures. The discussion is then opened up to a brainstorming
session with the audience in an effort to answer the “who, what, where, when, and how” of developing and
implementing a sustainable program that resonates with the appropriate audiences.
In general, the suggestions to date have included: more and different signage; a video showing the journey through the
channel and particularly over the drop structure; more education at all levels; annual and storm related advisories;
alternate adventure recommendations; and structural changes, including more barriers to entry and methods of escape.
The outreach method that naturally manifests at each meeting is the existing school communication networks,
including websites, newsletters, and safety classes. Broadcasting a safety message on local access television stations is
also in consideration.
Phase II – Assimilation of Data
The FC District has been collecting and categorizing the data received to date. This phase, already underway, will
identify the main elements to be included in the Creek and Channel Safety Awareness Program. The following steps
will be used to select the best elements to include in the program:
Existing safety program: The FC District’s existing safety program will be evaluated. It generally consists of
chain-link fencing, “No Trespassing” signs, and safety education for those granted permission.
Address the various messages: Determine how to best address the various messages to the public. For example, the
painted messages on some flood control structures say “STAY OUT; STAY ALIVE,” yet in other areas, the public is
encouraged to enter the creeks for cleanup days.
Identify knowledge gaps: Identify areas where we may need to do further outreach, such as to new residents in the
area, parents that may not be aware of the dangers (and, therefore, don’t know to communicate this to their children),
and to private schools.
Facility review:
1. Signs: Investigate and determine the need for new or different signage and appropriate locations.
2. Entry points: Evaluate potential entry points (person or vehicle) and methods to limit entry and/or provide
additional notice.
3. Rescue operations: Work with rescue personnel to evaluate their rescue operations needs.
4. Channel modifications: Investigate the possibility of modifying channels to increase safety; for example, install
safety ropes at key locations or retrofit drop structures to reduce turbulence.
Educational: Based on known and available avenues/media, determine the best methods to effectively disperse
information to our focus audiences.
Feasibility test: Investigate and determine if each concept and implementation strategy is reasonable, possible, and
necessary and if it achieves the goals of increased awareness and sustainability.
Phase III – Implementation
Based on the results of the first two phases, the FC District will recommend appropriate actions to take to implement
the CCSAP. This phase will be further divided into categories, such as direct outreach, media outreach, and facility
modifications. These categories will each have their own focus audience, timeline, and budget. Each element of this
phase will include a feedback loop to measure the success of the implementation. This final phase will be developed in
coordination with the Transportation, Water, and Infrastructure Committee, and the recommended actions will be
Exhibit C
reported to the Board of Supervisors no later than October. The goal is to have several, if not all, outreach actions
implemented for the rainy season starting in October.
CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION:
Members of the public may not receive important information about creek and channel safety.
CHILDREN'S IMPACT STATEMENT:
The FC District will continue to work with the schools and youth-based groups within the County to educate children
about safety regarding creeks and flood control channels.
Exhibit C