In a significant step towards recovery from the devastating wildfires that swept through Los Angeles County in early January, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has commenced the debris removal process in Altadena and Pacific Palisades. This initiative marks the beginning of a lengthy rebuilding effort for the thousands of residents who lost their homes and businesses in the Eaton and Palisades fires, which resulted in the destruction of over 9,400 structures in Altadena and more than 6,800 in Pacific Palisades.
The cleanup operation is set to be monumental, with thousands of contractors from the Army Corps and private firms tasked with disposing of approximately 4.5 million tons of debris—an amount significantly larger than the debris generated by the recent wildfires in Maui. Governor Gavin Newsom emphasized the collaboration among federal, state, and local officials to expedite the cleanup process, noting that debris clearance is occurring 35 days post-fire, which is notably faster than the response time following the Woolsey fire in 2018.
During a news conference held in Altadena, Newsom described the situation as unprecedented in California’s history, standing alongside Maj. Gen. Jason Kelly from the Army Corps and other officials. The backdrop of the event showcased the extensive destruction, with charred homes and debris visible for miles, a stark contrast to the unaffected Odyssey Charter School where the conference took place.
Among those impacted, Altadena resident Margot Stueber expressed her emotional relief as her property was the first to be cleared. She shared her grief over losing her home in Janes Village, a historic neighborhood, stating, “This is my first happy day.” As heavy machinery began to clear away the remnants of her home, workers prepared to collect twisted metal, ash, and other debris.
Before the Army Corps can begin clearing properties, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is conducting a preliminary phase to remove hazardous materials such as paint and propane tanks. This phase is mandatory and will be completed without cost to the property owners. The EPA is aiming to finish nearly two-thirds of its cleanup by the end of the week, with a deadline set for February 28.
Hazardous materials collected from the fire zones are being temporarily stored at designated sites until they can be transported to specialized facilities for proper disposal. The Army Corps is also encouraging property owners to submit opt-in forms for debris removal, with over 7,300 homeowners already participating—a record number for such a program.
Newsom noted that while the government is providing free debris removal for the majority, some property owners have opted to manage the cleanup themselves. As of now, 315 residents have chosen this route. The governor highlighted that the majority of residents prefer the government-led cleanup due to its convenience.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass urged residents to coordinate with their neighbors to submit forms collectively, which would streamline the clearance process for entire blocks rather than individual homes. As debris removal commences in Pacific Palisades, officials are optimistic that the swift action will pave the way for rebuilding efforts to begin even while cleanup continues in surrounding areas.
Overall, the commencement of debris removal in Los Angeles County represents a crucial step for communities grappling with the aftermath of the wildfires, offering a glimmer of hope for recovery and restoration in the affected neighborhoods.