SALUD Y BIENESTAR
AIR POLLUTION
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While moving the soil to create the reservoir, deadly 2.5 ppm debris will be released into the atmosphere over multiple years of construction. Tons of additional pollution would significantly harm the community. Local mitigation for this increase will most likely not be available within the West Side itself. Harm due to asthma, stroke, and other respiratory issues would be inevitable, which also has cumulative economic ramifications.
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CalEnviroScreen 3.0 (see image) indicates poor air quality ratings (second worst rating) and low socio-economic status of persons living on the West Side. Socio-Economic data regarding the local population was not accurately included in the project's dEIR, a potential social/environmental justice foul.
VALLEY FEVER
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Valley fever (coccidioidomycosis) is a disease caused by a fungus, Coccidioides, which lives in the soil of relatively arid regions; its incidence is increasing. People are infected by inhaling contaminated dust.
ALGAE BLOOM STENCH
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The reservoir is planned to be near capacity in the winter, and near empty in the summer months. This would create what is known as a "dead pool". When the water level is low, the exposed algae's smell would reach a circumference of two miles, well within restaurants, gas stations, and the future planned setting of a putt-putt golf family attraction. Although this project is off-limits to the public, the partners have suggested light recreation on the outskirts of the reservoir - in the summer months this would not be ideal due to the proximity of the algae aroma. This would be the scent visitors, home buyers/owners, etc would be subject to while entering the city from Interstate-5 - another potential negative economic externality.
PESTS
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The large water source will attract a number of pests including mosquitos and nutria, large water rodents. The project mitigates for these by suggesting the use of pesticides.
LIGHT POLLUTION
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During construction there will be additional lights present on the hillside. Large lights sources will remain after construction to provide light for the pumping station.
INCREASED TRAFFIC
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During the years of construction, significant traffic increases at the Sperry Exit will be present - further burdening the local commuter community's only Interstate 5 Exit.
INCREASED STRESS
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The West Side Community will live with the constant reminder that a reservoir is just above our homes, schools, friends and family members. Regardless of engineering standards, the fact that a flood is possible would be something people would endure.
LOSS OF A NATURE RESPITE
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Del Puerto Canyon has been a cherished natural respite for generations. This will undoubtedly have an effect on the local community.
