Stabilization
Restore and stabilize Kern River bed & bank along Riverside Park.
Stabilization
Safety
Recreation
Together, we can build a better Riverside Park
Riverside Park in Kernville is one of the most visited parks in Kern County, drawing tens of thousands of visitors each year. The focal point of this park is a section of the Kern River that was enhanced in the early 1970s in a collaborative effort between local citizens and the Army Corps of Engineers.
Degradation
Over the Years
Years of flooding and delayed maintenance have severely degraded this community resource to the point where sections of the riverbank are entirely inaccessible. Severe hazards are present along the riverbank - including exposed rusting steel supports, undermined concrete structures, and unstable embankments. Concerned citizens, both local and frequent visitors, have gathered to take steps to repair, enhance and preserve this park for current and future generations.
Shortsighted Solutions
The county's fix is not the right solution
The county has obtained funding from FEMA to restore the riverbank. However, the county's solution to the riverbank is to dump 20" sharp, angular rock over the edge of the riverbank (otherwise known as riprap). This will likely wash away in the next major flood, and creates numerous safety issues. Riverside Park deserves better!
Legacy
Building for a better future
This project carries a great deal of significance to residents and visitors of the Kern River Valley, and to the Kern County economy. Riverside Park is an anchor for the recreation economy of the Kern River Valley. Residents have partnered with experts in riverbank restoration to provide the county with a solution that will restore the riverbank, increase safety, and preserve the natural aesthetic of Riverside Park. Residents are calling on the county to implement this solution, and to ensure that Riverside Park is preserved for current and future generations.
Habitat
Improve aquatic habitat and decrease sedimentation.
Economic
Enhance Kern River Valley economy.
Recreation
Enhance recreational opportunities for paddling, tubing, fishing, and other public users.
Safety
Provide opportunities to safely engage with the Kern River for public access.
Collaboration
Strengthen community, agency, and NGO partnerships.
Your Support Journey
Two easy steps to advocate for Riverside Park
Spend just a few minutes on each step below to show Kern County leaders that the community is ready to invest in a safer, more vibrant riverfront.
1
Stay in the loop
Subscribe for updates so you’re first to know about hearings, volunteer opportunities, and community milestones as the project advances.
Take step 1 2Write a support letter
Use our letter-writing guide or GPT assistant to draft a compelling message to Kern County leaders championing the restoration.
Take step 2Complete the journey to become a Riverside Park advocate
Every subscription and letter moves the river forward.