Environment
Wildfire risk, open space, water quality, and the canyon's changing conditions.
Updated October 10, 2026
LAGUNA BEACH
Laguna Beach's 2026 wildfire plan puts the first five feet on the front line
With 87 percent of city land in a very high fire hazard zone, the city's new Community Wildfire Protection Plan pairs brush-clearance inspections, goat-grazed fuel breaks, and the state's coming Zone 0 rules.
By Elias Thornton · October 1, 2026
LAGUNA BEACH
Inside the City's El Nino Winter Playbook: What the Emergency Proclamation Unlocks
Beyond the council vote, the Sept. 10 proclamation gives the city fast-contracting power for shoreline protection, sand placement and debris removal ahead of a forecast very strong El Nino.
By Elias Thornton · October 1, 2026
LAGUNA BEACH
The Aliso Creek Estuary Review Is On: What the $20 Million EIR Will Study
The city filed its Notice of Preparation in January, launching formal environmental review of the Laguna Ocean Foundation plan to restore 9 acres at the creek mouth.
By Elias Thornton · October 1, 2026