KTU+A

Malibu Lagoon

Malibu Lagoon is an historic seasonal coastal lagoon, and during intense flood events the beach barrier is breached, draining the lagoon almost entirely. This occasional event causes a mass release of bacteria and nutrients. This build up of bacteria and nutrients places Malibu Lagoon on the federal 303(d) list of impaired water bodies.

Several alternatives were initially developed to address the water quality issues. Though similar in intent, each alternative has a unique circulation system to resolve the issues. Four of the alternatives were moved forward for further consideration after TAC review and input.

Based on biological and hydrology/hydraulics data developed by team members, KTU+A drafted several concepts in AutoCAD and translated them into GIS for analysis. The analysis was inclusive of volumetric calculations pertaining to grading/dredging; habitat quantities comparisons; erosion and sedimentation; and hydrologic storage capacity. These alternatives were then shown graphically within ArcGIS for use at public workshops.