Summer Dam Will Not Be Installed At Healdsburg Veterans Memorial Beach

Press release from the Sonoma County Government:

June 17, 2020

Santa Rosa, CA – June 17, 2020 – Due to impacts of the Covid-19 health emergency and projections for reduced river flows, Sonoma County Regional Parks will not install the summer dam on the Russian River at Healdsburg Veterans Memorial Beach.

To preserve water storage in Lake Mendocino and support river fish habitat later in the season, flow rates are expected to be about two-thirds below normal, too low to meet preferred environmental conditions for dam installation. In addition, the dam’s installation is a physically intense project that does not allow for social distancing among work crews.

The decision not to install the dam was made in consultation with Sonoma Water, Sonoma County’s health officer and the city of Healdsburg.

In most years, the county installs a wooden dam from late June through mid-September to create a swimming area downstream from Healdsburg’s Memorial Bridge. Because of impacts from the health emergency, Regional Parks does not have the seasonal staff to enforce social distancing, hygiene and lifeguarding requirements at the beach this summer. However, the park is open, with river conditions suitable for wading and more shoreline for visitors to spread out. Lifeguards will not be at the beach daily, but a roving lifeguard team will visit this and other Russian River parks on weekends beginning in July.

Regional Parks is developing an updated master plan for the park, and the community is invited to offer feedback on potential improvements, including enhanced river access and family friendly amenities. The next public meeting is expected later this year. Those interested in attending can sign up to receive notices of meeting dates and other project news.

Healdsburg Veterans Memorial Beach is at 13839 Old Redwood Highway and is open from 8 a.m. to sunset. Admission is free. Parking is $7 or free with a Regional Parks membership.

About Sonoma County Regional ParksThe Sonoma County Regional Parks system includes 56 parks, beaches and trails. Regional Parks preserves natural and cultural resources and offers opportunities for recreation and education that enhance the quality of life and well-being of residents and visitors.

This press release was produced by the Sonoma County Government>. The views expressed here are the author’s own.