Learning from the Past to Protect Our Future

Flooding has shaped La Union’s landscape and its community response. By understanding past flood events, we strengthen our commitment to safety, planning, and resilience. These moments remind us why the La Union Watershed District exists and why proactive infrastructure matters.

September 2013: The Dam Rupture

In September 2013, one of the two dams above La Union ruptured during a major storm. The floodwaters overwhelmed the townsite, damaging homes, farmland, and roads. Families were displaced, and recovery took months. This event was a turning point, it revealed the urgent need for coordinated watershed management and long-term flood control.

In response, residents came together to form the La Union Watershed District, officially established in January 2018. The goal: to prevent future disasters through community-led planning, infrastructure upgrades, and public engagement.

Summer 2021: A Second Wake-Up Call

In 2021, La Union experienced another significant flood event. Heavy rains overwhelmed local drainage systems, causing damage across the townsite and surrounding areas. While the dams held, the storm exposed vulnerabilities in our aging infrastructure and reinforced the need for continued investment in flood prevention.

This event led to renewed efforts, including:

• Planning for a new stormwater pond on Mendez Street
• Upgrading drainage routes and signage
• Strengthening partnerships with regional agencies

Building Resilience

Since 2018, the Watershed District has worked to:

• Maintain and monitor existing dams (A Dam, B Dam, Gardner Dam, Alvarez Dam)
• Improve stormwater flow and erosion control
• Educate the public about flood safety and preparedness

Community Matters

Community members are encouraged to attend board meetings and participate in discussions about watershed planning and flood control. Your voice helps shape a safer La Union.