Bringing the Lagoon Back to Laguna
Aliso Creek Estuary Restoration
For years, the Aliso Creek Estuary has struggled under the weight of pollution, habitat loss, and outdated infrastructure. What was once a thriving wetland—home to birds, fish, and a natural filtration system—has died and is no longer serving an ecological function. But we have a rare opportunity to bring it back. By re-establishing tidal flow, reshaping the wetland basin, restoring native habitat, and improving water quality, we can rebuild a resilient, living estuary that protects our coastline from storms and sea-level rise. The Laguna Ocean Foundation has been leading this effort from the start, coordinating science, design, and partnerships to return the estuary to health. Restoring Aliso Creek isn’t just an environmental project—it’s a commitment to the future of Laguna and everyone who loves this coastline.
Why the Aliso Creek Estuary Needs to be Restored
- Estuary is severely degraded.
- Natural habitat has been lost.
- Estuary no longer serves essential ecosystem services.
- Climate resilience is urgently needed.
- It’s a once-in-a-generation opportunity,
Brief History of the Project
The Aliso Estuary Restoration Project is gaining momentum as Laguna Ocean Foundation (LOF) advances its effort to “Bring the Lagoon Back to Laguna.” With early funding from state and federal partners, LOF led the development of a science-based Conceptual Restoration Plan, which received unanimous support from the Laguna Beach Planning Commission in August 2024. Building on this success, the Laguna Beach City Council approved the next critical phase two months later: preparation of a full Environmental Impact Report (EIR). The EIR will evaluate both the environmental benefits and potential impacts of the proposed restoration and will be shared publicly to ensure transparency and community input.
Please join the effort to restore this important estuary
By giving to Laguna Ocean Foundation’s Matching Gift campaign.
You can give online or mail a check to:
21632 Wesley Drive
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Estuary Fact
The Aliso Estuary is the only site on the Orange County coast that, once restored, will provide a habitat link between the Laguna Greenbelt and the Laguna Bluebelt (Marine Protected Area) system on the Laguna Coast.
Benefits of the Restoration Project
Improved Water Quality
Improvement in water quality through the planting of native vegetation which will better filter water runoff benefitting both humans and wildlife.
Healthier Ecosystem
Creation of a resilient and healthy ecosystem that supports native wetland and upland habitats, native plants, and fish and wildlife.
Enhanced Public Access
Enhanced public access to the restored estuary and its immediate setting, including visual access, public trails, lookout points, vistas and a pedestrian bridge.
Upgraded Aliso Beach Park
Upgraded Aliso Beach Park with new public-serving amenities and infrastructure that enhance the visitor experience and create a sense of place that reflects the site’s natural resources, local character and values of Laguna Beach.
New Educational Venue
Development of a new venue for public education, community engagement, and a showcase for local coastal resources and conservation.