To maintain Tally Ho Creek in its altered condition, vegetation and sediment were periodically removed. This type of management has been more difficult to obtain approval for due to increased concerns from regulatory agencies regarding the impact of such actions and the need to protect species listed under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Because the low gradient valley condition has not changed and sediment inputs to the valley floor have likely increased, the increased density of vegetation has resulted in sediment accumulation on the valley floor that has increased the risk of flooding to homes adjacent to the creek. In fact, for some landowners, the risk of flooding has increased to the point where it is an annual occurrence.

In response to the increased risk, the City of Arroyo Grande contracted with Waterways, the CSLRCD, and Central Coast Salmon Enhancement (CCSE) to identify a solution that will reduce flooding risks to landowners within a framework that emphasizes enhancements to the ecological value of Tally Ho Creek. Waterways performed mapping, modeling, preliminary engineering designs, and prepared permit applications.