El Niño Preparedness and Campus Hillsides

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According to the most recent reports of weather experts and emergency preparedness agencies, El Niño conditions continuing through this winter remain a probability. This El Niño is predicted by some to be one of the strongest on record. Due to the probability of disruptive weather over the coming months, Pepperdine University has been implementing a comprehensive El Niño preparedness plan.  These preparations include, among other things, inspection and maintenance of drainage systems, coordination among emergency responders, preparation for sandbag deployment, and an evaluation of areas on campus that may be most affected by substantial rainfall, including our hillsides.

To that end, a material called Flexterra has been applied to some of the slopes throughout campus to help control erosion. This high performance, flexible growth medium bonds directly to the soil and helps a mixture of native seeds establish and grow. Flexterra is considered one of the most sustainable and effective ways of minimizing soil loss and runoff, and because it is hydraulically applied, it has no nets or threads to endanger wildlife.  It is also safe for animals and humans, biodegradable, and non-toxic.  The initial bright green color will last about two weeks before fading into a more neutral green and brown. The material has been applied on the slopes across from the TAC and the Seaver Main lot, at the School of Law, and at the Drescher Campus Student Residential Complex.

Should you have any questions, please call our Insurance & Risk Office at (310) 506-4410.

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