U.S. Army Corps Breaks Ground in Palisades: Fastest Wildfire Cleanup in State History Begins

Pacific Palisades, CA – February 11, 2025 – Federal, state, and local officials gathered in Pacific Palisades on Tuesday to mark the launch of the fastest large-scale wildfire debris removal effort in California history. Led by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) in coordination with FEMA, Cal OES, and local agencies, the initiative is expediting cleanup efforts following the Eaton and Palisades fires. Speaking at the press conference, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, Los Angeles County Supervisor Lindsey P. Horvath, Cal OES Director Nancy Ward, FEMA Acting Administrator Cameron Hamilton, Major General Jason Kelly of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and Colonel Eric Swenson of the Army Corps’ recovery field office emphasized the urgency and scale of the operation. Officials highlighted that private property debris removal is beginning just 35 days after the fires ignited, making this the fastest wildfire cleanup effort in the state’s history—nearly twice as fast as previous recovery operations. Colonel Swenson detailed the removal process, explaining that teams will clear fire ash, debris, foundations, and hazardous trees from affected properties while ensuring safe transport to permitted disposal sites. He stressed that this operation moves the community from an uncontrolled environment to a controlled one, reducing fire hazards and improving public safety. Mayor Bass praised the coordinated response, noting that all levels of government had mobilized rapidly to help residents return home as quickly as possible. “We stand with the people of Pacific Palisades, and we will be here until every resident can return home,” Bass said. “This is government working at its best—federal, state, and local agencies moving at lightning speed to restore this community.” Supervisor Horvath reported significant progress in collecting Right-of-Entry (ROE) forms, which allow crews to access properties for debris removal. Over 8,000 forms have been submitted, with 99% of residents opting into the public cleanup process. She noted that widespread participation ensures an efficient, coordinated recovery. Meanwhile, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has completed hazardous waste removal, clearing the way for this next phase. Officials also assured residents that erosion control measures and stormwater protections are in place to prevent environmental contamination. To manage logistics, authorities are finalizing a traffic management plan in collaboration with the California Highway Patrol, LAPD, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, and other agencies. The plan aims to minimize disruptions as trucks transport debris from the affected areas. As cleanup efforts continue, residents can expect an increased presence of debris removal crews in the coming weeks. Officials urged those who have not yet submitted their ROE forms to do so by March 31 at recovery.lacounty.gov. A One-Stop Center will open this week to assist residents in navigating the rebuilding process, including permit applications for new construction. Major General Jason Kelly of the Army Corps of Engineers reaffirmed the commitment to swift action, stating, “This is about restoring communities, rebuilding lives, and ensuring safety. We are sparing no effort to get this done as fast as possible.” Residents seeking federal debris removal assistance can visit a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) or sign up online at ca.gov/LAFires.