Chico Times

Assemblyman James Gallagher and Senator Megan Dahle have initiated legislative measures to address flood risks in Butte County's Five-Mile Basin, a key flood control system compromised by erosion after the 2024 Park Fire. The lawmakers have requested $7 million from the Assembly Budget Committee for emergency maintenance.

Gallagher emphasized the need for swift action: “Far too often, we see government delays and bureaucratic red tape get in the way of preventing disaster. We cannot let that happen here.” He added, “It’s going to be a heck of a lot cheaper to fix this mess now than it will be if the system fails.”

The Five-Mile Basin, constructed in the 1960s by the US Army Corps of Engineers, diverts floodwater into Big Chico Creek, Lindo Channel, and Sycamore Creek. Maintenance efforts were curtailed in the early 2000s due to environmental concerns raised by state and federal regulators.

The Park Fire burned over 429,603 acres across Butte and Tehama Counties, affecting 75% of Chico’s watershed. This has exacerbated sediment accumulation issues that have been longstanding. A study estimates about 67,000 cubic yards of debris are obstructing waterways.

Dahle highlighted the importance of balancing environmental protection with necessary infrastructure work: “We all want clean air, clean water and thriving ecosystems. But there has got to be a balance and some common sense.”

In addition to funding requests, Gallagher and Dahle introduced Assembly Bill 1000 to exempt cleanup efforts from certain environmental laws that could delay flood risk reduction work. A report from the Assembly Select Committee on Permitting Reform criticized such laws for hindering vital projects: "permitting reform is necessary for the state to achieve its climate resiliency objectives."

Chico Mayor Kasey Reynolds underscored urgency: “Removing fire debris from Five-Mile Basin will take more resources than the City of Chico has available.” Tod Kimmelshue from Butte County Board of Supervisors warned about potential disasters without immediate action.

Gallagher represents California’s 3rd Assembly District covering multiple counties including Butte. Dahle represents California’s 1st Senate District also encompassing several counties including Butte.