The Assembly Budget Subcommittee No. 4 on Climate Crisis, Resources, Energy, and Transportation spotlighted the Matilija Dam project as a critical initiative during its recent meeting. The discussion emphasized the dam's outdated infrastructure and its classification as a safety risk, with officials advocating for its removal as the most sensible solution.

A key speaker highlighted that while many dams across California serve essential purposes, Matilija Dam no longer meets the needs of the community or the environment. The speaker noted, "The dam has absolutely no use any longer," underscoring the urgency of the situation. The removal project is backed by a diverse coalition, with approximately $36 million already allocated for preliminary work on related infrastructure.

The conversation also touched on the potential for salmon restoration in the area, recalling a time when rivers were so teeming with fish that one could walk across them. The speaker expressed optimism about the possibility of revitalizing salmon populations, contingent on the successful removal of the dam.

While the project has gained momentum, the speaker acknowledged that the county must secure additional funding to complement state support. The Matilija Dam project stands as a pivotal step toward enhancing environmental safety and restoring local ecosystems, with stakeholders eager to see the county's commitment to funding in the coming months.