LOS ANGELES—The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) will begin removing fire debris starting Tuesday from private properties damaged or destroyed by the January wildfires, officials announced Monday.
The two federal agencies in partnership with L.A. County and impacted municipalities will enter the properties of survivors who submitted a form, known as Rights of Entry, to remove fire-damaged structures such as concrete and metal, ash, and hazardous trees.
During a news briefing, federal officials noted the announcement represented a major milestone in the wildlife recovery process.
“Residents in impacted areas will notice an increase in truck traffic, equipment movement and work crews over the coming days, weeks and months,” said Col. Eric Swenson, commander of the USACE’s Recovery Field Office. “We do ask for your patience and understanding as we work to remove debris and reduce the long-term risk for the entire L.A. County community.”…