Army Corps Launches Interactive Map to Track Wildfire Cleanup Progress

The United States Army Corps of Engineers has unveiled a new digital tool to help Los Angeles County residents track wildfire debris removal operations in their communities. The Phase 2 Debris Removal Viewer, now available at the top of the Corps of Engineers Los Angeles District Wildfire Debris Removal Mission page, provides real-time updates on cleanup efforts through a color-coded mapping system that displays the status of affected properties.

“Transparency and timely information are critical as we work to safely and quickly remove wildfire debris,” said Col. Eric Swenson, Commander of the United States Army Corps of Engineers Los Angeles Wildfires Recovery Field Office. “This new viewer gives residents a clear picture of where their property stands in the Phase 2 process, reinforcing our commitment to keeping the community informed every step of the way.”

The interactive map identifies three categories of properties: parcels submitted by Los Angeles County for Phase 2 debris removal, parcels currently assigned to contractors for cleanup, and parcels where work has been completed and returned to County oversight.

Operating under the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s direction and in coordination with state and County authorities, the Corps of Engineers is removing ash, burned structures, and foundations where requested by homeowners. The agency emphasizes that while debris removal is an essential first step, cleared properties are not automatically “build ready” for reconstruction.

The Corps has implemented strict safety protocols for debris transport. Material is placed in dump truck beds with heavy-duty plastic liners that are tightly wrapped around the ash, followed by a protective tarp. Crews also utilize a “wet method” during removal, applying water and mist to prevent ash from becoming airborne, particularly near reoccupied homes.

Contractors will transport secured material directly to California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery-permitted landfills. The Corps has coordinated with the California Department of Transportation and local municipalities to establish haul routes that minimize impact on reoccupied homes and unaffected communities. Residents should expect increased truck traffic in affected neighborhoods and along these designated routes.

Eligible properties enrolled in the federal debris removal program by the March 31, 2025 deadline are expected to be cleared by January 2026, with most completions anticipated well before then. Affected residents can submit Right-of-Entry forms online at recovery.lacounty.gov or in person at Disaster Recovery Centers.

For more information and to track cleanup progress, visit the United States Army Corps of Engineers Los Angeles District Wildfire Debris Removal Mission page. Media inquiries should be directed to SoCalWildfires@usace.army.mil.