Environmental Services

The Environmental Services Department is responsible for 4 areas of City services, facilities and resources: 


Parks, Facilities & Natural Resources Division


This Division (also known as Community Services) oversees the City's recreation, natural resources, open spaces, parks, fields, government buildings and facilities, forests, wetlands and creeks, and trails.

Recreation Division

The Recreation Division offers a wide array of programs, facility rentals, classes and community events for families and individuals of all ages and interests.

Streets/Utilities Division

The Streets/Utilities Division is in charge of street construction and maintenance, water distribution and maintenance, wastewater collection, confined drainage ways, traffic control and vegetation management.

Water/Wastewater Division


The Water/Wastewater Division monitors, reports, tests and treats all drinking water for the City of Arcata and the Jacoby Creek Water District. It also monitors, reports, tests and treats all wastewater, including the Arcata Marsh and Wildlife Sanctuary's 55 acres of oxidation ponds and 225 acres of treatment and enhancement marshes. 

Video: Environmental Services Department OverviewWatch this 4-minutes video, which incorporates stunning videography along with an overview of the Environmental Services Department.
ES Dept Overview video image
Energy Efficiency & Renewables written across part of an old, filament lightbulb
GIS Maps written over a topographical map
Zero Waste written over three rubbish, recycling and composting bins in a row
Stormwater pollution prevention written over waves on a beach