Los Peñasquitos Lagoon reopened to ocean tides

At 7:00 this morning, California State Parks personnel began the process of opening the Los Peñasquitos Lagoon in Del Mar. On hand are Natural Resources personnel as well as heavy-equipment operators, lifeguards, and maintenance crews. Also present was a representative from the Los Peñasquitos Lagoon Foundation.

The process is expected to last three to five days. The lagoon has been closed to the ocean tides for two months

As the lagoon became filled up with fresh water, the saltwater-marsh habitat was compromised. Several species of birds, fish, and plants depend on the daily influx of tidal ocean waters. From a human standpoint, high mosquito counts and malodorous pools of standing water have been a nuisance.

UPDATE: The lagoon was opened and began to drain at 3 p.m., May 13.