Carlsbad beaches will gain more sand over the coming months as part of a project to remove built-up sand from the Agua Hedionda Lagoon and place it on nearby beaches.
Channelside Water Resources, which operates the Carlsbad desalination plant, is moving heavy equipment into the area to start the work. The project occurs every one to four years to remove sand that naturally drifts into the lagoon and forms a large sandbar (the last dredging took place in 2021). This year, up to 400,000 cubic yards of sand will be placed on Carlsbad beaches.
Where the sand will go
Dredged sand from the lagoon will be placed on Carlsbad State Beaches, spanning from Pine Avenue to just north of Cannon Road. The exact amount and placement depend on current and historical beach sizes, how people use each beach and the need to protect nearby rocky ocean habitats.
Project details and what to expect
The work typically takes place during winter to minimize disruption to beach visitors and wildlife. The Tamarack State Beach parking lot will be closed Thursday, Feb. 20 through the morning of Saturday, Feb. 22 as equipment is moved into the area.
- Work will take place on weekdays from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Crews will direct beachgoers around active work areas as sand replenishment progresses along the beach
- The project is expected to continue through late April
- Sidewalks along the seawall will remain open throughout the project
While this is not a city-led project, the City of Carlsbad is one of the permitting agencies. More details about the project can be found in the city-issued environmental document.
