Coastal panel approves plan to fix Malibu Lagoon

Cecile Gregoriades

Conservationists disagree over a $7-million lagoon restoration project in Malibu.

OCEANSIDE — The California Coastal Commission approved a $7 million plan aimed at restoring circulation in the brackish waters of Malibu Lagoon.

The lagoon, a restored wetland, was so poorly constructed that officials say part of it must be drained and rebuilt to help get the water flowing again.

Commission staff and the city of Malibu both support the plan. Opponents, however, expressed concerns at Wednesday's commission meeting that the fix could further damage the estuary, which is a regular stop for herons and egrets.

Commissioners voted unanimously Wednesday to move forward.

Copyright 2010 The Associated Press.