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Home My Public Portal About20060628 - Agenda Packet - Board of Directors (BOD) - 06-16 -Regional Open Space i MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT Meeting 06-16 REGULAR AND SPECIAL MEETING BOARD OF DIRECTORS MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT 6:30 p.m. Wednesday,June 28,2006 330 Distel Circle,Los Altos,California AGENDA* Please Note: 6:30 p.m. Closed Session Special Meeting Start Time 7:30 p.m. Regular Meeting Start Time 6:30 ROLL CALL SPECIAL MEETING OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT—CLOSED SESSION The Closed Session will begin at 6:30 p.m. At the conclusion of the Closed Session,the Board will adjourn the Special Meeting Closed Session to the Regular Meeting, and,at the conclusion of the Regular Meeting, the Board may reconvene the Special Meeting Closed Session. l. Conference with Labor Negotiators, California Government Code § 54957.6 Agency Negotiators—Craig Britton, Sally Thielfoldt,John Maciel Employee Organization—Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District Field Employees Association 2. Conference with Labor Negotiators,California Government Code § 54957.6 Agency Negotiators—Craig Britton, Sally Thielfoldt Unrepresented Employees—Office, Supervisory and Management Staff 3. Conference with Legal Counsel—Existing Litigation,California Government Code § 54956.9(a) Name of Case: Citizens for Responsible Open Space v. San Mateo County LAFCo, Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, San Mateo County Superior Court Case No. CIV442954 4. Conference with Legal Counsel—Existing Litigation,California Government Code § 549569(a) Name of Case: Fogarty v. Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, San Mateo County Superior Court Case No. CIV4419342 REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT 7:00 ROLL CALL REPORT ON RETURN FROM CLOSED SESSION (The Board shall publicly report any action taken in Closed Session pursuant to Government Code Section 54957.1(a).) I ** ORAL COMMUNICATIONS—Public ADOPTION OF AGENDA—J. Cyr ADOPTION OF CONSENT CALENDAR—J. Cyr *** APPROVAL OF MINUTES—May 10, 2006 *** WRITTEN COMMUNICATION J Meeting 06-16 Page 2 BOARD BUSINESS 7:40* 1 Authorization for General Manager to Execute a Contract with Timothy Best,CEG,to Provide Consulting Services in an Amount Not to Exceed $49,360,Including Contingency to Conduct a Road and Trail Erosion Inventory within the San Francisquito Creek Watershed and Related Erosion Control Services in an Amount Not to Exceed $6,000—M. Sagues 7:50* 2 Authorization for General Manager to Execute a Contract with Jakaby Engineering to Provide Consulting Services in an Amount Not to Exceed$34,860 for Pedestrian/Equestrian Bridge, Including Foundation Design and Related Engineering Services at Thornewood Open Space Preserve—M. Freeman 8:00* 3 Adoption of Resolution Delegating Tort Liability Claims Handling Responsibilities to the California Joint Powers Insurance Authority—S. Schectman 8:10* 4 Authorization for General Manager to Contract with Wildland Resource Management, Inc. to Provide Fuels Assessment and Fire Management Planning at La.Honda Creek, Sierra Azul and Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserves in the amount of$30,000 plus a contingency of$5,000, for a total authorization amount not to exceed $35,000—M.Freeman 5 Authorization for Additional Legal Fees in the Matter of Citizens for Responsible Open Space v. LAFCo,et al. for the Law Firm of Shute,Mihaly&Weinberger in an Amount Not to Exceed $50,000—S. Schectman REVISED CLAIMS 8:30* INFORMATIONAL REPORTS—Reports on compensable meetings attended. Brief reports or announcements concerning pertinent activities of District Directors and Staff;opportunity to refer public or Board questions to Staff for factual information;request Staff to report back to the Board on a matter at a future meeting;or direct Staff to place a matter on a future agenda. CLOSED SESSION CONTINUED(if necessary) REPORT ON RETURN FROM RECONVENED CLOSED SESSION(if necessary) —California Government Code Section 54957.1(a). 9:15* ADJOURNMENT Times are estimated and items may appear earlier or later than listed.Agenda is subject to change of order. roADDREss THE BOARD: The Chair will invite public comment on agenda items at the time each item is considered by the Board of Directors, You may address the Board concerning other matters during Oral Communications. Each speaker will ordinarily be limited to three minutes. Alternately,you may comment to the Board by a written communication,which the Board appreciates. All items on the consent calendar may be approved without discussion by one motion. Board members,the General Manager,and members of the public may request that an item be removedfrom the Consent Calendar during consideration of the Consent Calendar. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act,if you need assistance to participate in this meeting,please contact the District Clerk at(650)691-1200. Notification 48 hours prior to the meeting will enable the District to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting. i Regional Open Space MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT R-06-62 Meeting 06-16 REUSED COPY June 28, 2006 ------------------------------------------------- AGENDA ITEM 1 AGENDA ITEM i Authorization to Execute a Contract with Timothy Best, CEG, to Provide Consulting Services in an Amount Not to Exceed$43,360, Including Contingency to Conduct a Road and Trail Erosion Inventory Within the San Francisquito Creek Watershed and For Related Erosion Control Services in an Amount Not to Exceed$6,000 GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATION Authorize the General Manager to execute a contract with Timothy Best, CEG, for consulting services in an amount not to exceed $43,360 and to provide a road and trail erosion inventory and related erosion control services within the San Francisquito Creek Watershed and for related erosion control services in an amount not to exceed $6,000. DISCUSSION TheResource m Five-Year esou ce Management ent Fi e Year Strategic Plan(Strategic Plan was developed in 200 t g g ( g ) p 30 identify and implement high priority resource management projects to ensure the long-term protection of natural and cultural resources on District preserves. The Strategic Plan identified the need to conduct road and trail assessments of preserves located within watersheds with anadromous fisheries (steelhead trout, coho salmon) as a priority to protect these sensitive resources from sedimentation impacts. In the past two years, the District has contracted with consultants to conduct road and trail inventories in two watersheds: San Gregorio Creek and Pescadero Creek which are listed as impaired due to high levels of sediment under Section 303(d) of the Federal Clean Water Act (also known as the Total Maximum Daily Load(TMDL) program). This proposed contract would identify and propose solutions to the sedimentation impacts resulting from roads and trails within the San Francisquito Creek Watershed, which is also listed as sediment impaired. All of these watersheds are listed as sediment impaired because of the declining anadromous fish populations attributed to excess sedimentation. The five preserves located within the San Francisquito Creek Watershed that will be assessed as a component of this contract include: Windy Hill, Thornewood, Teague Hill, Los Trancos and Coal Creek. District staff issued a Request for Proposals and Qualifications(RFP/Q) for consulting services to prepare road and trail inventories and assessments for the preserves located within the San Francisquito Creek Watershed. Anticipating that a number of Certified Engineering Geologists (CEGs)would respond with qualifications, and that there would be a number of small or unanticipated projects needing the expertise of a CEG throughout the fiscal year, staff structured the RFP/Q to allow bids on the Road and Trail Inventory and time and material rates for additional services on an "as-needed"basis. Report 06-62 Page 2 The District received four proposals for completing the requested services. Staff recommends p p p g q award of the San Francisquito Creek Watershed Road and Trail Erosion Inventory contract to Timothy Best. Although the proposals were highly competitive, Mr. Best's proposed scope of services will provide the District with a thorough and complete inventory of the maintenance needs for the San Francisquito Creek Watershed preserves. Additionally, Mr. Best will provide detailed treatment recommendations and a prioritization schedule for the inventoried sites that will facilitate the District's implementation of his recommendations. Finally, Mr. Best has completed prior surveys for the District and he demonstrates a higher level of experience in this area than was shown by other submittals. As part of the additional services scope of the RFP/Q, staff also requested the assistance of a Certified Engineering Geologist/Geotechnical Engineer to review trail alignments that are part of the proposed El Corte de Madera Creek Open Space Preserve (ECdM) staging area and Bay Area Ridge Trail Project. Given Mr. Best's recent work for the District at EUM, staff is confident that he can complete the review of the trail alignments most efficiently and within the time frame required. In addition, staff anticipates needing occasional road and trail planning services over the course of the fiscal year for a variety of Resource Management and Real Property projects. FUNDING The total cost for the road and trail inventory and related services is $49,360. Of this amount, $43,360 is budgeted for the San Francisquito Creek Watershed road and trail inventory with a contingency of$3,000 for services related to EUM and $3,000 for the additional unanticipated services. When completed, the road and trail inventory will provide the District with a baseline p ry set of data with which to make informed resource management decisions at a watershed level. Staff will incorporate the treatment recommendations into a detailed implementation plan to protect the San Francisquito Creek Watershed. CEQA COMPLIANCE The project involves assessment of roads and trails at District Preserves located within the San Francisquito Creek Watershed, as well as additional services to review trail alignments at EUM. The District concludes that the project will not have a significant effect on the environment. It is categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) under Section 15306 of the CEQA Guidelines as follows: Section 15306 exempts basic data collection, research, experimental management, and resource evaluation activities that do not result in major disturbances to an environmental resource. Prepared by: Matt Sagues, Open Space Planner Contact Person: Same as above ill i Regional Open Space MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT R-06-62 Meeting 06-16 June 28, 2006 AGENDA ITEM 1 AGENDA ITEM Authorization to Execute a Contract with Timothy Best, CEG, to Provide Consulting Services in an Amount Not to Exceed $49,360, Including Contingency to Conduct a Road and Trail Erosion Inventory Within the San Francisquito Creek Watersh and For Related Erosion Control Services in an Amount Not to Exceed $6,000 O GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMENDA N Authorize the General Manager to execute a contract with Timothy Best, CEG, for consulting services in an amount not to exceed $49,360 and to provide a road and trail erosion inventory and related erosion control services within the San Francisquito Creek Watershed and for related erosion control services in an amount not to exceed $6,000. DISCUSSION The Resource Management Five-Year Strategic Plan (Strategic Plan) was developed in 2003 to identify and implement high priority resource management projects to ensure the long-term protection of natural and cultural resources on District preserves. The Strategic Plan identified the need to conduct road and trail assessments of preserves located within watersheds with anadromous fisheries (steelhead trout, coho salmon)as a priority to protect these sensitive resources from sedimentation impacts. In the past two years, the District has contracted with consultants to conduct road and trail inventories in two watersheds: San Gregorio Creek and Pescadero Creek which are listed as impaired due to high levels of sediment under Section 303(d) of the Federal Clean Water Act (also known as the Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) program). This proposed contract would identify and propose solutions to the sedimentation impacts resulting from roads and trails within the San Francisquito Creek Watershed, which is also listed as sediment impaired. All of these watersheds are listed as sediment impaired because of the declining anadromous fish populations attributed to excess sedimentation. The five preserves located within the San Francisquito Creek Watershed that will be assessed as a component of this contract include: Windy Hill, Thornewood, Teague Hill, Los Trancos and Coal Creek. District staff issued a Request for Proposals and Qualifications (RFP/Q) for consulting services to prepare road and trail inventories and assessments for the preserves located within the San Francisquito Creek Watershed. Anticipating that a number of Certified Engineering Geologists (CEGs) would respond with qualifications, and that there would be a number of small or unanticipated projects needing the expertise of a CEG throughout the fiscal year, staff structured the RFP/Q to allow bids on the Road and Trail Inventory and time and material rates for additional services on an"as-needed"basis. Report 06-62 Page 2 The District received four proposals for completing the requested services. Staff recommends award of the San Francisquito Creek Watershed Road and Trail Erosion Inventory contract to Timothy Best. Although the proposals were highly competitive, Mr. Best's proposed scope of services will provide the District with a thorough and complete inventory of the maintenance needs for the San Francisquito Creek Watershed preserves. Additionally, Mr. Best will provide detailed treatment recommendations and a prioritization schedule for the inventoried sites that will facilitate the District's implementation of his recommendations. Finally, Mr. Best has completed prior surveys for the District and he demonstrates a higher level of experience in this area than was shown by other submittals. As part of the additional services scope of the RFP/Q, staff also requested the assistance of a Certified Engineering Geologist/Geotechnical Engineer to review trail alignments that are part of the proposed El Corte de Madera Creek Open Space Preserve (ECdM) staging area and Bay Area Ridge Trail Project. Given Mr. Best's recent work for the District at EUM, staff is confident that he can complete the review of the trail alignments most efficiently and within the time frame required. In addition, staff anticipates needing occasional road and trail planning services over the course of the fiscal year for a variety of Resource Management and Real Property projects. FUNDING The total cost for the road and trail inventory and related services is $49,360. Of this amount, $43,360 is budgeted for the San Francisquito Creek Watershed road and trail inventory with a contingency of$3,000 for services related to EUM and $3,000 for the additional unanticipated services. When completed, the road and trail inventory will provide the District with a baseline set of data with which to make informed resource management decisions at a watershed level. Sstaff will incorporate the treatment recommendations into a detailed implementation plan to protect the San Francisquito Creek Watershed. CEQA COMPLIANCE The project involves assessment of roads and trails at District Preserves located within the San Francisquito Creek Watershed, as well as additional services to review trail alignments at EUM. The District concludes that the project will not have a significant effect on the environment. It is categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act(CEQA) under Section 15306 of the CEQA Guidelines as follows: Section 15306 exempts basic data collection, research, experimental management, and resource evaluation activities that do not result in major disturbances to an environmental resource. Prepared by: Matt Sagues, Open Space Planner Contact Person: Same as above i Regional Open Space MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT R-06-80 Meeting 06-16 June 28, 2006 AGENDA ITEM 2 AGENDA ITEM Authorization to Execute a Contract with Jakaby Engineering to Provide Consulting Services in an Amount Not to Exceed $34,860 for Pedestrian/Equestrian Bri e, Including Foundation Design and Related Engineering Services at Thornewood Op Spac Preserve GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATI Authorize the General Manager to execute a contract with Jakaby Engineering in an amount not to exceed $34,860, including 20% contingency, to provide registered professional engineering services for pedestrian/equestrian bridge design and related engineering services at Thornewood Open Space Preserve. DISCUSSION I At your March 8, 2006 meeting the Board of Directors approved the District's Action Plan and budget for the 2006-2007 fiscal year, which included $90,000 for resource and environmental assessments at Thornewood Open Space Preserve (Thornewood). This amount included planning and bridge design at Dennis Martin Road. i On May 20, 2006, District staff issued a Request for Proposals and Qualifications (RFP/Q)to consultants with Civil and/or Structural Registered Professional Engineer qualifications to provide design and engineering services for bridge design at Thornewood. The RFP/Q also asked consultants to provide information about qualifications for additional engineering services in anticipation of other upcoming projects requiring engineering design. RFP/Qs were sent on May 22, 2006 to twenty-two (22) Civil and Structural Engineers. As a result, three (3) proposals/qualifications were received on June 15, 2006. District staff compared and ranked the proposals and selected Jakaby Engineering's proposal as superior. Selection was made based on price, qualifications, and ability to perform the work, and Jakaby's past experience working with the District. Jakaby Engineering's bid was $29,050. The next lowest bid was $47,113 (a difference of$18,063.) Thornewood is located within the San Francisquito Creek watershed, a waterbody that has been listed as impaired due to high levels of sediment under Section 303(d) of the Federal Clean Water Act. There are also Federal Endangered Species Act concerns in this creek given that potential habitat for steelhead trout, a federally threatened species, has been identified in various reaches of the watershed. A-06-80 Page 2 Installation of a bridge along Dennis Martin Creek would reduce erosion at the stream crossing where users currently must ford the creek without a bridge. The bridge design would occur simultaneously with other efforts at Thornewood in support of future planning efforts, including a road and trail inventory, assessment of Schilling Lake, and resolution of parking issues. Pending results of the road and trail inventory, engineering design may be required for additional bridges at other stream crossings in Thornewood. On November 17, 2005, District staff held a meeting with residents of the Town of Woodside with access rights to Dennis Martin Road. Neighbors indicated that replacement of the bridge, which the District had removed earlier at the Town's request, is a high priority. FUNDING The cost for the engineering and bridge design services is $29,050. Staff requests a contingency amount of$5,810 (20% of the cost) such that the total cost will not exceed $34,860. Contingency funds would be used to cover the costs of additional design and permit coordination with the Town of Woodside and preparation of plan revisions, if necessary. CEQA COMPLIANCE Staff concludes that entering into this consultant agreement for design and engineering services does not constitute a project under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Any future action taken by the Board of Directors to implement the consultant's work, such as approving construction of the bridge and foundation will be subject to CEQA review at that time. Prepared by: Meredith Manning, Open Space Planner Contact Person: Matt Freeman, Planning Manager Regional Open Spa(., i MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT R-06-81 Meeting 06-16 June 28, 2006 AGENDA ITEM 3 AGENDA ITEM Proposed Resolution Delegating Tort Liability Claims H ling Responsibilities to the California Joint Powers Insurance Authority GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATION Adopt the attached resolution delegating tort liability claims handling responsibilities to the California Joint Powers Insurance Authority. DISCUSSION In April 2002, the District joined the California Joint Powers Insurance Authority (California JPIA. The California JPIA is a government entity established under a joint powers agreement among its member government agencies to administer a liability self-insurance and loss-pooling program. California JPIA is the largest such pool in the State, with approximately 100 member agencies. The District has experienced significant savings over the cost of commercial insurance by its membership in California JPIA since 2002. Under the California JPIA's Liability Protection Program, members follow a prescribed process when they receive a claim or lawsuit. Liability claims are begun when the claimant files a written claim in accordance with the California Government Code. These claims are then forwarded to the California JPIA's third party claims adjuster, Carl Warren and Company. The claims adjuster reviews the claim, undertakes whatever investigation is indicated, and takes appropriate action, depending on the circumstances. Claims may be returned to the claimant as lacking sufficient information or as untimely. More frequently, the claims adjuster directs the member agency to deny the claim. Denial of a claim does not preclude the agency from ultimately paying or settling the claim. However, timely denial of a claim does preserve an important statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit against the agency. The Government Code provides that a government agency must approve or deny a claim within 45 days of receipt of the claim. If it does so, the claimant has six months from rejection of the claim to file a lawsuit against the agency. If the agency does not act on the claim within 45 days, the claimant has two years to file such a lawsuit. i i R-06,81 Page 2 Currently, when the adjuster recommends that a claim be rejected, there are two courses of action agencies may follow. The agency may itself choose to approve or reject the claim at a public meeting. Alternatively, the agency may delegate the authority to approve or deny a claim to an appropriate agency official. In 2003, the Board delegated to the General Manager the authority to approve or deny claims within his statutory contracting authority of$25,000. (The Government Code authorizes delegation of such authority up to $50,000.) Any claims over this amount are presented to the Board for denial or approval at a public meeting. The Executive Committee of California JPIA recently took action to offer members an additional alternative for expediting the handling of liability claims filed against them. The new alternative would allow members to delegate the authority to accept or reject claims to California JPIA. This would eliminate the need for the Board or the General Manager to take action and send the required notice of such action to claimants. Members desiring to use this process would adopt the attached resolution delegating the claims handling responsibility in its entirety to California JPIA, allowing it to send any appropriate notice of rejection and preserve the six-month statute of limitations. All other procedures would remain the same. The District would work closely with the claims adjuster and California JPIA on all claims and lawsuits, as it does now, The California JPIA would retain the authority to negotiate, investigate, settle or defend any claim covered by the Program. The District must cooperate with and assist the California JPIA in attempting to resolve claims. California JPIA has asked its members to determine which course of action they desire to take by June 30, 2006. The General Manager recommends delegating the authority to approve or deny claims to California JPIA. This will streamline the claims handling process and eliminate the Board or General Manager having to make a determination about a claim that ultimately will be within the authority of California JPIA to pay, settle, or defend. Prepared by: Susan Schectman, General Counsel Contact person: Same as above y RESOLUTION NO. 06- A RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT ESTABLISHING A POLICY THAT DELEGATES TORT LIABILITY CLAIMS HANDLING RESPONSIBILITIES TO THE California JOINT POWERS INSURANCE AUTHORITY AS AUTHORIZED BY GOVERNMENT CODE SECTIONS 910, ET SEQ. THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT DOES HEREBY RESOLVE, DETERMINE AND ORDER AS FOLLOWS: I Whereas, MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT is a member of the California joint Powers Insurance Authority California JPIA), and pursuant to J J Y ( ) Government Code sections 990.4, et seq. and 6500 et seq. pools its self-insured liability claims and losses with other California JPIA members under a Memorandum of Coverage; and Whereas, the Joint Powers Agreement creating the California JPIA authorizes it to exercise powers common to members and appropriate to defend and indemnify members from liability claims under the Memorandum of Coverage, NOW, THEREFORE, THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT DOES HEREBY FIND, DETERMINE AND RESOLVE AS FOLLOWS: SECTION 1. MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT delegates to California JPIA authority to act on its behalf pursuant to Government Code sections 910, et seq. to accept, reject, return as insufficient, or return as untimely any claims against it, and to provide any notices authorized under those statutes on behalf of MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT. SECTION 2. This Resolution shall become effective immediately upon its adoption. SECTION 3. The MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT Clerk shall certify to the adoption of this Resolution. Regional Open Space MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT R-06-76 Meeting 06-16 June 28, 2006 AGENDA ITEM 4 AGENDA ITEM Authorization to Contract with Wildland Resource Management, Inc. to Provide Fuels Assessment and Fire Management Planning at La Honda Creek, Si r-a Azul and Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserves GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATION Authorize the General Manager to contract with Wildland Resource Management, Inc. in the amount of$30,000 plus a contingency of$5,000, for a total authorization amount not to exceed $35,000. DISCUSSION The District is currently engaged in two master planning processes—one encompasses the La Honda Creek Open Space Preserve and the adjacent Driscoll Ranch. The second master plan is for the Sierra Azul/Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserves, and the adjacent Moody Gulch property (owned by Santa Clara County but anticipated to be transferred to the District as the result of a pre-existing funding agreement). This contract, covering 23,835 acres in the areas specified above, is intended to provide a base assessment for fuel loads and fire hazards as well as recommendations for fire management that can be incorporated into the Master Plans for these preserves. The contract will consist of a series of specific tasks, including: 1. Develop fuel models and maps based on District vegetation data; 2. Assess fire hazards based on the fuel model and other hazard inputs; 3. Develop recommendations to protect resources at risk and develop additional wildland fire recommendations; and 4. Meet with staff and the public to discuss results, prepare final reports, and integrate the results into the respective Master Plan framework. Proposals and qualifications were requested from seven different consulting firms specializing in wildland fire management statewide. Two firms responded with proposals: Wildland Resource Management, Inc., and Tierra Data. The proposal submitted by Wildland Resource Management (WRM)was lower in cost and includes a project team of highly qualified professionals and an unparalleled amount of experience preparing these types of plans locally in the Bay Area. R-06-76 Page 2 Implementation of the Fuels Assessment and Fire Management contract at the specified preserves is estimated to extend over the course of the 2006-2007 fiscal year. Initial review of District policies and practices will be conducted by WRM in July of 2006, followed by assessment of fuels and hazards. Preparation of a draft report will conclude by the end of summer in time to present at public workshops for the Master Plans, which are tentatively scheduled for early fall. WRM will remain under contract to integrate their findings into the draft Master Plans and assist with CEQA and development of practical mitigation measures that relate to fire hazard on an as- needed basis. FUNDING Funding to cover the cost of this contract is budgeted for FY 06-07 as a component of the Sierra Azul/Bear Creek Redwoods and La Honda Creek Master Plans. Of the $35,000 total budget, staff estimates $20,000 will be charged to Sierra Azul/Bear Creek Redwoods Master Plan and $15,000 to La Honda Creek Master Plan, depending on usage of the contingency funding. CEQA COMPLIANCE This project involves fuels and fire management assessments at La Honda Creek and Sierra Azul Open Space Preserves. The assessments include data collection and resource evaluation activities within preserve boundaries. The District concludes that the assessments will not have a significant effect on the environment. It is categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act(CEQA) under Section 15306 of the CEQA Guidelines as follows: Section 15306 exempts basic data collection, research, experimental management, and resource evaluation activities that do not result in major disturbances to an environmental resource. Prepared by: Matt Sagues, Open Space Planner Contact Person: Same as above f Regional Open Spac, MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT R-06-79 Meeting 06-16 June 28, 2006 AGENDA ITEM 5 AGENDA ITEM Authorize Additional Legal Fees in the Matter of Citizens for Responsible Open Space v. LAFCo, et al. in an Amount Not to Exceed $50,000 GENERAL COUNSEL'S RECOMMENDATION Authorize additional legal fees in the matter of Citizens for Responsible Open Space v. LAFCo, et al. for the law firm of Shute, Mihaly & Weinberger in an amount not to exceed $50,000. i DISCUSSION The Board is requested to authorize the additional legal fees needed to represent the District' interests in pending litigation. Citizens for Responsible Open Space v. LAFCo, et al. is the lawsuit filed against LAFCo, the County of San Mateo, and the District challenging the validity of LAFCo's approval of the District's September 2004 annexation of the San Mateo County coastside. In December 2004, the Board authorized retention of the firm of Shute, Mihaly & Weinberger to represent the District in this matter and authorized legal fees in the amount of $50,000 (see Report No. R-04-123). In December 2005, the Board authorized additional legal fees in an amount not to exceed $50,000 (see Report No. R-05-127); and authorized $50,000 in additional funds in February 2006 (see Report No. R-06-20). In defending this legal action, the Board has previously authorized a total of$150,000. Additional legal services will be needed for new post-trial proceedings, including examination of the LAFCo protests at issue in this case, and preparation of responsive briefs to petitioners' post- trial brief. Other post-trial proceedings may also require legal services. Due to the cost of necessary post-trial preparation in this matter as a result of these factors, the District's counsel is recommending that additional funds be approved to ensure that this matter is defended through trial to judgment in a manner that allows the District to fully and vigorously assert the public's interest in this case. These funds were approved for the District's Fiscal Year 2006-2007 Planning Department budget for legal services for the Coastside Protection Program. Prepared by: Susan Schectman, General Counsel Contact person: Same as above Claims No. 06-12 Meeting 06-16 Date 6/28/06 Revised Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District # Amount Name Description 5061 $251.84 ADT Security Services Alarm Service-FFO 5062 $188,80 American Red Cross Instructor Materials 5063 $9612 ANG Newspapers Legal Advertisement-Invitation To Bid-ECDM Bridge Construction 5064 $391.47 Antolin,Noelle Reimbursement- 9 Months Mileage 5065 $17.67 AT&T Fax Service-FFO 5066 $117.83 Baillie,Gordon Reimbursement-Key For Hybrid&Notary Expenses 5067 $2,578.30 Balance Hydrologics, Inc. Consulting Services-In-Stream Sediment Monitoring At ECDM 5068 $1,328.28 Barg Coffin Lewis&Trapp Legal Services-Fish Passage Project&Guadalupe Watershed 5069 $415.00 California Park&Recreation Society Membership Fees 5070 $104.65 California Water Service Company Water Service-AO 5071 $1,283.96 Cascade Fire Equipment Company Field Supplies&3 Fire Shelters 5072 $1,202.39 CMK Automotive Inc. Vehicle Maintenance&Repairs 5073 $3%00 Concern Executive Coaching 5074 $1,542.00 County Of San Mateo General Plan Determination 5075 $82.62 CSK Auto Vehicle Supplies 5076 $706.50 Curiale Dellaverson Hirschfeld Personnel Legal Services 5077 $10814 Deane Little Reimbursement-SPD Forum Display Photo 5078 $3,791.23 Deborah Mills-Design Concepts Brochures,Signs,Business Cards,Exhibit Panels&PDF Files For Web Placement 5079 $1,025.00 Del Rey Building Maintenance Window/Blind Cleaning&Paint Doors 5080 $3,220.83 Dell Commercial Credit 2 Workstations With Monitors 5081 $3%00 Department Of Toxic Substances Environmental Protection Agency Fees Control 5082 $2,325.22 Design,Community&Environment Master Planning Services-La Honda Creek 5083 $10,389.28 Donald Hays Trail Contractor Construction Of Ridgetop Trail At Pulgas Ridge 5084 $215.00 Emily And Associates Management Consulting 5085 $247.83 FedEx Shipping Charges 5086 $38.26 FedEx Kinko's Copy Services 5087 $1,801.71 Fieldtex Products, Inc. Emergency Medical Equipment 5088 $249.98 Freeman,Matt Reimbursement-SPD Forum Expenses 5089 $61.77 G&K Services Shop Towel Service 5090 $25158 General Graphics Exhibits Graphic Design Services 5091 $15,648.75 Go Native Nursery Herbicide Spraying-May 5092 $272.28 Great Printing&Copies Summer Volunteer Newsletter 5093 $48.00 Half Moon Bay Review Annual Subscription 5094 $2,927.08 Indoff Incorporated 16 Chairs,Delivery&Assemble 5095 $164.49 Interstate Traffic Control Products Traffic Cones 5096 $45.00 Jim Davis Auto Smog Check 5097 $1,200.00 Law Enforcement Psychological 4 Psychological Assessments-Recruitment Services 5098 $2,527.00 Liebert Cassidy Whitmore Legal Services 5099 $206.46 Life Assist First Aid Supplies 5100 $546.00 Lisa Bush Grazing Assessment Services-La Honda Creek 5101 $19.57 Macke Water Systems, Inc. Water Filter Replacement 5102 $887.51 Metro Mobile Communications Radio Repair&Maintenance 5103 $50.88 Mountain View Garden Center Landscaping Supplies 5104 $245.00 On-Site Health&Safety Medical Services 5105 $296.22 Pacific Water Systems Water System Supplies 5106 $33.56 Peninsula Digital Imaging Mounting Services-SPD Forum Displays Page 1 of 2 Claims No. 06-12 Meeting 06-16 Date 6/28/06 Revised Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District # Amount Name Description 5107 $39.94 Peterson Tractor Co. Tractor Supply 5108 $465.83 Pine Cone Lumber Lumber 5109 $3,632.79 Resource Strategies, Inc. Aerial Imagery-MROSD Areas Of Interest 5110 $2,018.51 Roy's Repair Service Vehicle Repairs&Service 5111 $1,042.32 San Jose Mercury News Legal Advertisement-Invitation To Bid-ECDM Bridge Construction&Hayes Deck 5112 $616.24 Sears Gas Range-Ranger Residence 5113 $4,034.00 Shelton Roofing Company, Inc. Roof Replacement-Rental Residence 5114 $7,033.30 Shute,Mihaly&Weinberger LLP Legal Services-Coastal Annexation Litigation 5115 $205.25 Staples Credit Plan Office Supplies 5116 $90.93 Summit Uniforms Uniform Expenses 5117 $1,900.00 Systems for Public Safety Recruitment-Background Research 5118 $863.83 The Ed Jones Company Uniform Expenses 5119 $211.54 The Stay Well Company First Aid/CPR Training Materials 5120 $129.08 The Workingman's Emporium Uniform Expense 5121 $13.18 United Parcel Service Parcel Shipping 5122 $135.32 United Rentals Highway Technologies Sign 5123 $383.42 United Site Services,Inc. Sanitation Services 5124 $1,575,72 Unlimited Graphics&Sign Network Vehicle Decals&Logos 5125 R $20.00 Alexander Hapke Reimbursement-Pre-Employment Expenses 5126 R $161.89 AT&T Voicemail Service-AO 5127 R $145.00 Bill's Towing&Recovery Tow Truck Fees 5128 R $200.00 City Clerks Association Of California Recruitment Advertisement-Office Manager Deputy District Clerk 5129 R $1,954.70 CMK Automotive Inc. Vehicle Maintenance&Repair 5130 R $120.00 Custom Alignment Vehicle Repair 5131 R $891.00 Dynamic Consultants, Inc. Special Inspections&Testing Services-Picchetti Winery Seismic Upgrade Retrofit Project 5132 R $5,253.43 First Bankcard Field Supplies-1,735.65 Office Supplies-330.27 Computer Exp-75.76 Docent Supplies-685.00 Business Mtgs-324.86 Conferences&Training-529.00 SPD Forum Exp-1,223.58 Advertising/Subscriptions/Books-282.26 Vehicle Supplies-67.05 5133 R $350.00 Gary Beck Consulting Services-Review&Analysis Of Legal Descriptions Of Property 5134 R $390.66 Kwik Key Lock&Safe Co.Inc. Lock&Key Services 5135 R $602.15 *1 La Honda-Pescadero Unified School Tax Compensatory Fee-Per Agreement District 5136 R $75.00 NSCCAPA Recruitment Advertisement-Planner I/If 5137 R $729.99 Office Depot Office Supplies 5138 R $100,00 Sagues, Matt Reimbursement-Conference Expense 5139 R $2,017.52 *2 San Mateo County Fire Services Fee-Per Agreement 5140 R $384.38 United Site Services Sanitation Services 5141 R $14,000.00 Vavrinek,Trine,Day&Co.,LLP Progress Billing-2005/2006 Audit Services 5142 R $373.68 Verizon Wireless Cell Phone Service Total $112,014.26 .1 Urgent Check Issued 6/27/06 *2 Urgent Check Issued 6/27/06 Page 2 of 2 Claims No. 06-12 Meeting 06-16 Date 6/28/06 Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District # Amount Name Description 5061 $251.84 ADT Security Services Alarm Service-FFO 5062 $188.80 American Red Cross Instructor Materials 5063 $96,72 ANG Newspapers Legal Advertisement-Invitation To Bid-ECDM Bridge Construction 5064 $391.47 Antolin, Noelle Reimbursement- 9 Months Mileage 5065 $17.67 AT&T Fax Service-FFO 5066 $117.83 Baillie,Gordon Reimbursement-Key For Hybrid&Notary Expenses 5067 $2,578.30 Balance Hydrologics, Inc. Consulting Services-In-Stream Sediment Monitoring At ECDM 5068 $1,328.28 Barg Coffin Lewis&Trapp Legal Services-Fish Passage Project&Guadalupe Watershed 5069 $415.00 California Park&Recreation Society Membership Fees 5070 $104.65 California Water Service Company Water Service-AD 5071 $1,28196 Cascade Fire Equipment Company Field Supplies&3 Fire Shelters 5072 $1,202.39 CMK Automotive Inc. Vehicle Maintenance&Repairs 5073 $350.00 Concern Executive Coaching 5074 $1,542.00 County Of San Mateo General Plan Determination 5075 $82.62 CSK Auto Vehicle Supplies 5076 $706.50 Curiale Dellaverson Hirschfeld Personnel Legal Services 5077 $10814 Deane Little Reimbursement-SPD Forum Display Photo 5078 $3,791,23 Deborah Mills-Design Concepts Brochures,Signs, Business Cards,Exhibit Panels&PDF Files For Web Placement 5079 $1,025.00 Del Rey Building Maintenance Window/Blind Cleaning&Paint Doors 5080 $3,220.83 Dell Commercial Credit 2 Workstations With Monitors 5081 $350.00 Department Of Toxic Substances Environmental Protection Agency Fees Control 5082 $2,325.22 Design,Community&Environment Master Planning Services-La Honda Creek 5083 $10,389.28 Donald Hays Trail Contractor Construction Of Ridgetop Trail At Pulgas Ridge 5084 $215.00 Emily And Associates Management Consulting 5085 $247.83 FedEx Shipping Charges 5086 $38.26 FedEx Kinko's Copy Services 5087 $1,801,71 Fieldtex Products, Inc. Emergency Medical Equipment 5088 $249.98 Freeman,Matt Reimbursement-SPD Forum Expenses 5089 $61.77 G&K Services Shop Towel Service 5090 $253.58 General Graphics Exhibits Graphic Design Services 5091 $15,648.75 Go Native Nursery Herbicide Spraying-May 5092 $272,28 Great Printing&Copies Summer Volunteer Newsletter 5093 $48.00 Half Moon Bay Review Annual Subscription 5094 $2,927.08 Indoff Incorporated 16 Chairs, Delivery&Assemble 5095 $164.49 Interstate Traffic Control Products Traffic Cones 5096 $45,00 Jim Davis Auto Smog Check 5097 $1,200.00 Law Enforcement Psychological 4 Psychological Assessments-Recruitment Services 5098 $2,527.00 Liebert Cassidy Whitmore Legal Services 5099 $206.46 Life Assist First Aid Supplies 5100 $546.00 Lisa Bush Grazing Assessment Services-La Honda Creek 5101 $19.57 Macke Water Systems,Inc. Water Filter Replacement 5102 $887.51 Metro Mobile Communications Radio Repair&Maintenance 5103 $50.88 Mountain View Garden Center Landscaping Supplies 5104 $245.00 On-Site Health&Safety Medical Services 5105 $296.22 Pacific Water Systems Water System Supplies 5106 $33,56 Peninsula Digital Imaging Mounting Services-SPD Forum Displays Page 1 of 2 Claims No. 06-12 Meeting 06-16 Date 6/28/06 Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District # Amount Name Description 5107 $39.94 Peterson Tractor Co. Tractor Supply 5108 $465.83 Pine Cone Lumber Lumber 5109 $3,632.79 Resource Strategies, Inc. Aerial Imagery-MROSD Areas Of Interest 5110 $2,018,51 Roy's Repair Service Vehicle Repairs&Service 5111 $1,042.32 San Jose Mercury News Legal Advertisement-Invitation To Bid-ECDM Bridge Construction&Hayes Deck 5112 $616.24 Sears Gas Range-Ranger Residence 5113 $4,034.00 Shelton Roofing Company, Inc. Roof Replacement-Rental Residence 5114 $7,033.30 Shute, Mihaly&Weinberger LLP Legal Services-Coastal Annexation Litigation 5115 $205.25 Staples Credit Plan Office Supplies 5116 $90.93 Summit Uniforms Uniform Expenses 5117 $1,900.00 Systems for Public Safety Recruitment-Background Research 5118 $863.83 The Ed Jones Company Uniform Expenses 5119 $211.54 The Stay Well Company First Aid/CPR Training Materials 5120 $129.08 The Workingman's Emporium Uniform Expense 5121 $13.18 United Parcel Service Parcel Shipping 5122 $135.32 United Rentals Highway Technologies Sign 5123 $383.42 United Site Services, Inc. Sanitation Services 5124 $1,575,72 Unlimited Graphics&Sign Network Vehicle Decals&Logos Total $84,244.86 Pago 2 of 2 Regional Open .,(,, ice MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT TO: Board of Directors FROM: L. Craig Britton, General Manager DATE: June 23, 2006 RE: FYI CAPITAL CRID I REGIONAL DISTRICT 490 Atkins Avenue Victoria BC V913 2Z8 T 250-478.3344 1 F 250-478.5416 1 www.crd.bc.ca May 31, 2006 RECEIVED Jed Cyr, President JUN 15 2006 Board of Directors, and Craig Britton, General Manager '� u '�r Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District � [ T 330 Distel Circule Los Altos, California 94022-140 USA Dear Jed and Craig, Congratulations to your Board and staff on a great 2006 Special Park Districts Forum. The forum provided an excellent opportunity to view the successes and challenges faced by both East Bay and Midpeninsula. In particular, the Thursday tour of your recent Midpeninsula acquisitions and information on your successful partnership with the N�iture Trust proved to be both inspiring and educational. We would like to thank you for the hospitality and professionalism displayed by everyone at Midpeninsula and ask that you pass on our thanks to your Board and staff. S* ce y, Christop er a n Lloyd Rushton Michele Rempel Chair, General Manager Manager onal Parks Committee Parks and Community Administrative and Capital Regional District Services Visitor Services W:\LRUSHTON\LETTERS\2006\05-May\SPDF- Mid peninsula.doc File: 390.01.1 Your regional parks and trails. Your natural heritage. years -1966-2006 RECEIVED Fox Valley Park District JUN 16 2006 712 South River Street • Box 818 • Aurora, Illinois 60507 • (630) 897-051��,�,.;PWStJI A O MNAL OPEt � SPACE D16TWT June 12, 2006 Mr. L. Craig Britton, General Manager Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District BOARD OF TRUSTEES 330 Distel Circle Los Altos, California 94022-1404 Linda Cole President Rose Smilgys Dear Craig: Vice President We sincerely wish to thank the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District Board of Bill Thompson Secretary Directors and excellent staff members for making the 2006 Forum a huge success. The attention to detail and all of the California hospitality was recognized and appreciated by The a everyone Gillespie Treasurer one from the Fox Valley Park District. We enjoyed meeting you, Craig, and thoroughly enjoyed your detailed narrative during our bus trip to the Midpeninsula sites on Thursday of Christine Coakley Trustee that week. John We were impressed with our exceptional system of open s ace, the awesome beauty of the Trusteestee d P Y p yp coastline, the majestic redwoods and the rolling hills of the Driscoll Ranch. We truly Emily Pahlavan Trustee appreciated the opportunity to observe and experience how you fund, operate and maintain many of your resources and operations. We came away with many new, useable ideas in Steven K. Messerli learningfrom the best our field has to offer. Executive Director Bill Donnell Congratulations again for hosting an exceptional forum and for the extra time, energy and Director of Park Operations effort in making the 2006 Forum one of the BEST ever! &Natural Resources Laurie Hoffman Director of Recreation, Education,Marketing& SAeven y, Communications �� Mark Johnson ^ Chief of Park Police& . Messerli Linda A. Cole Bil Thoms on Public Safety Executive Director President, Board of Trustees Secretary, Board o Nancy McCaul Trustees Director of Finance& Administration It Jeff Palmquist Director of Planning, l.Q rie u Ho Christen y ffm�l� Development&Grants e Coakley Bill Donnell Debbie Thompson Trustee Director of Park Operations Director of Recreation, Executive Assistant& &Natural Resources Education, Marketing Assistant Board Secretary & Communications Debbie Thompson Executive Assistant & Assistant Board Secretary �� www.foxvalIeyparkdistrict.org 1. Regional Open St re June 15, 2006 MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT William and Lesley Obermayer 22400 Skyline Blvd., #22 La Honda, CA 94020 RE: Portola Lookout (former Comas property) - Long Ridge Open Space Preserve Dear Mr. and Mrs. Obermayer: We are in receipt of your letter dated May 27, 2006 regarding the District's road maintenance obligations associated with the former Comas property. The District Board has already stated its position on this matter in previous letters in reply dated March 9 and April 27, 2006. We have taken your concerns seriously and have researched this issue in depth. Our position is informed by a careful reading of the road maintenance obligations contained in the grant deed from. Humphreys to Comas, and by discussions with the Comas' regarding the history of the construction, maintenance and use of the roads across the Portola Lookout property, as well as the creation of the easement in question. Our intention to maintain the Long Ridge Road easement at the higher standard set by the previous owner remains unchanged. We accept that we are in disagreement with you as to the historic use and maintenance of the roads across the former Comas property, and as to the required level of improvement for your road easement. Your negative portrayal of the District's efforts to preserve the rural and open space character of the scenic Skyline corridor and Long Ridge areas is unfortunate. We are disappointed that you have so greatly mischaracterized the District's motives and actions and have not accurately stated the facts. The District Board, staff, volunteers and supporters share a commitment to preserving the special landscapes that define and enhance the communities we live in and serve. The District embraces a responsible and pragmatic approach to fulfilling this mission, one that respects the rights of our neighbors, fully accepts all legal obligations, and takes seriously our charge to manage public lands for public benefit. The District Board had previously referred this matter to our Skyline Field Office, and any further inquiry or concerns directed to the Board will be referred to Area Superintendent David Sanguinetti for appropriate action. Sincerely, 7 Jed Cyr President, Board of Directors cc: MROSD Board of Directors David Sanguinetti, Skyline Area Superintendent Portola Park Heights Property Owners Association 33o Distel Circle 650-6g1-1200 infogopenspace.Org BOARD OF DIRECTORS:Pete Siemens,Mary Davey,led Cyr, GENERAL MANAGER: Los Altos CA 94022-1404 650-691-04$5 fax www.openspace.org Deane Little,Nonette Hanko,Larry Hassett,Kenneth C.Nitz L Craig Britton Regional Open S1. ,ce _.1.. .1 L..►-�.�... MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT June 15, 2006 Mr. Craig Dremman P.O. Box 609 Redwood City, CA 94064 Dear Mr. Dremman: The Board received your second email with additional questions about our weed eradication program. As we stated in our April 27, 2006 letter to you, the District does not currently track the budget for invasive plant removal specifically. It is, however, a significant part of the District's total Resource Management budget, which is projected to be approximately $3 million in the current fiscal year. In fiscal year 2005-2006, we worked on approximately 20 acres of yellow starthistle and 10 acres of Harding grass at the following preserves: Russian Ridge, Sierra Azul, Long Ridge, Los Trancos, Monte Bello, Rancho San Antonio, Saratoga Gap and Skyline Ridge. In the past three years, we have substantially reduced the cover of yellow starthistle at the Front Meadow area(2 acres) of Rancho San Antonio Open Space Preserve by carefully timed summer mowing, follow-up spot-spraying or hand removal of remaining thistle plants, and seeding and planting of native bunch grasses. At the southern end of Los Trancos Open Space Preserve, 5 acres of yellow starthistle have been sprayed with herbicide and any remaining starthistle plants were removed by hand. We have reduced the cover of Harding grass and increased the cover of the native purple needlegrass at the Rancho de Guadalupe section of the Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve (2 acres) by burning with follow-up spot-spraying. It has been our experience that it takes multiple years to completely eradicate weeds from an area, including the seed bank in the soil, therefore, we are not inclined to believe that complete eradication has occurred in any one year. Furthermore, we understand that human visitors and wildlife can inadvertently reintroduce weed seed into an area, so we intend to continue monitoring these areas for new infestations and respond accordingly. We do believe,however, that the invasive weed control program at these three locations has been extremely successful in eliminating all the seed-producing yellow starthistle and Harding grass plants, and that most of the seed bank in the soil has been exhausted as evidenced by the small fraction of invasive plants that we currently see germinating at these sites this spring, and the greater cover of native grasses. 33o Distel Circle 650-691-1200 info@openspace.org BOARD OF DIRECTORS:Pete Siemens,Mary Davey,led Cyr, GENERAL MANAGER: Los Altos CA 94022-1404 650-6gr0485 fax www.openspace.org Deane Little,Nonette Hanko,Larry Hassett,Kenneth C.Nitz L.Craig Britton Mr. Craig Drernman June 15, 2006 Page Two As we have developed effective methods to control invasive weeds at these sites, we have slowly expanded our efforts into other areas and are starting to test other methods such as the release of biocontrol insects, carefully timed brush cutting and spot-spraying of new small outbreaks of yellow starthistle, and digging up new small outbreaks of Harding grass. We estimate that there are approximately 400 total acres of yellow starthistle and 110 total acres of Harding grass on District preserves. Overall, we estimate that this amount will continue to decrease due to our expanding control efforts. We do not currently have an estimate on how many years it will take to completely eradicate these two species from District lands. Sincerely, Jed yr, President fn Board of Directors cc: MROSD Board of Directors L. Craig Britton, General Manager MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT For Immediate Release Contact: Rudy Jurgensen June 16, 2006 Public Affairs Manager (650)691-1200 DISTRICT VOTES TO SUPPORT $5 BILLION WATER BOND ACT LOS ALTOS, CA [June 16, 2006] —The Board of Directors of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District(MROSD) unanimously voted Wednesday night to support the Safe Drinking Water, Water Quality and Supply, Flood Control, River and Coastal Protection Act of 2006. Voters will decide whether to adopt the Bond Act, a$5.4 billion water and natural resources protection initiative, when they go to the polls in November 2006. Funds from the bond would ensure that all Californians have access to safe drinking water, obtain better flood protection, and continue to have opportunities to enjoy California's parks, natural landscapes, and magnificent coastline. Current funding for California's natural resource protection programs is critically low at less than I% of the overall state budget and current bond funds will run out as early as 2006. Adding to pressures the state will experience over the next few years is an enormous population growth that will leave Califomia without funding for critical new investments in safe drinking water, water quality and supply, flood control, state and local parks, and protection of California's rivers, streams, bays, and coastline. The bond initiative was developed by a coalition of conservation groups in collaboration with water agencies and local governments from across the state, as well as environmental, urban, and other public interest organizations. Created by voters more than 30 years ago, the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District has successfully protected and managed over 50,000 acres of open space which the public enjoys 365 days a year. The District is an independent, non-enterprise, California special district whose mission is to purchase andpreserve a regional greenbelt of open space land in perpetuity,protect and restore the natural environment, and provide opportunities for ecologically sensitive public enjoyment and education. www.openspace.org MIDPENINS'ULA REG14DNAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT For Immediate Release Contact: Kristi Altieri June 19,2006 Public Affairs Specialist (650)691-1200 DISTRICT GRADUATES NEW VOLUNTEERS -- 20 Outdoor Activity Docents to Begin Offering Interpretive Public Activities -- -- 26 Trail Patrol Members to Begin Assisting and Educating Preserve Visitors and 8 Crew Leaders to Lead Outdoor Stewardship Projects -- LOS ALTOS [June 19, 2006] - The Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District on Saturday afternoon graduated 20 of its newest Outdoor Activity Docents,bringing the total number to 75. i Outdoor Activity Docents(OADs)introduce visitors to the natural and cultural history, and ecology of the midpeninsula region and Santa Cruz Mountains. OADs share their knowledge and passion with others while leading hikes,mountain bike excursions, and horseback rides on District preserves. Using interpretive techniques,docents encourage appreciation of open space and wildland areas. i "The District and its volunteers form a valuable partnership in which both work together to further the mission of the District,"said Renee Fitzsimons,the District's Docent Programs Coordinator. "The Outdoor Activity Docents enhance the outdoor experience for the public and provide new ways of seeing our local environment." To become an OAD,volunteers must complete a comprehensive, 10-week training that includes evening lectures,weekend field sessions, and a culminating field practicum. Course topics cover a wide range of subjects, including plant communities, Ohlone culture, wildlife ecology, geology, and interpretive techniques. The District's Docent Program began in 1977. Like the graduating docent classes before them, these OADs are excited to communicate the message of open space stewardship with the public. The new class includes people interested in working with children, and in cycling and horseback riding. "I've gotten so much out of this experience and training process,"said Outdoor Activity Docent graduate Collin Lim. "I've gained a greater appreciation for the natural world and,although it is a lifetime commitment as I have a lot more to learn, I'm excited to share what I know with other folks."Collin looks forward to leading hikes and mountain bike outdoor activities for the public. In April,the District also graduated 26 new Volunteer Trail Patrol members and eight Crew Leaders,bringing the program numbers to 113 and 22,respectively. The recent Trail Patrol graduates completed the annual orientation and training program that included participating in visitor contact scenarios,identifying potential trail hazards,and learning the on-line,"paperless" reporting procedures,which greatly increases communication efficiency. The recently graduated, energetic group of mountain bicyclists,hikers,equestrians,runners, and dog walkers are already patrolling the trails,helping other preserve visitors and reporting on trail conditions. Created in 1998,the District's Crew Leaders assist District field staff in leading 60-70 outdoor stewardship projects a year. Projects include trail maintenance,habitat restoration, fence construction,and other resource protection assignments. With an emphasis on safety, Crew Leaders help instruct and inform participants of procedures and project goals,provide recognition and encouragement, and assist with administrative functions. Crew Leaders,together with District staff, strive to ensure each project participant enjoys the experience. "I'm thrilled to have the opportunity to participate in a greater number of outdoor stewardship projects,"says Gayle Jarvinen, a District volunteer since 2003 and recent Crew Leader graduate. "With a greater understanding of the intricacies of coordinating these projects, I look forward to sharing my enthusiasm and passing on the knowledge I've gained to other volunteers." Created by voters more than 30 years ago, the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District has successfully protected and managed more than 50,000 acres of open space. The public enjoys the District's diverse and beautiful preserves 365 days a year. The District is an independent, non-enterprise, California special district whose mission is to acquire and preserve a regional greenbelt of open space land in perpetuity,protect and restore the natural environment, and provide opportunities for ecologically sensitive public enjoyment and education. www.openspace.org .............. ....... .. .. Regional Open Sp -,L-e MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT June 19, 2006 Honorable Joe Simitian California State Senator State Capitol, Room 4062 Sacramento, CA 95814 i Dear Senator Simitian: On behalf of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, I would like to thank you for your timely assistance and support in obtaining another one-year legislative extension for the District's Habitat Conservation Fund Program grant of$325,000. This grant will be used to purchase a 58-acre private property, adjacent to the District's 3,300-acre Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve, preserving a key section of upper the spawning areas of f this property will protect s it Lobitos Creek Watershed. Purchase o p p rty p p g the federally threatened steelhead trout, and the habitats of the endangered red-legged frog and several species of concern, including Cooper's hawk, long-eared owl, golden eagle, osprey, and the western pond turtle. Please accept our gratitude and thanks for your dedication to open space preservation programs in the Midpeninsula area. Your ongoing support in obtaining this grant extension is very gratifying for the District which has enjoyed not only Your support,but that of our entire Sacramento delegation. Si cerely, � L. Craig Britton General Manager LCBIec I cc: Board of Directors, Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District Ralph Heim, Public Policy Advocates 33o Distel Circle 650-691-1200 info@openspace.org BOARD of DIRECTORS:Pete Siemens,Mary Davey,led Cyr, GENERAL MANAGER: Los Altos CA 94022-1404 650-691-0485 fax www.openspace.org Deane Little,Nanette Hanko,Larry Hossett,Kenneth C Nitz L.Craig Britton J Regional Open S ce MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT June 19, 2006 Honorable Sally Lieber California State Assembly P.O. Box 942849 Sacramento, CA 94249-0022 Dear Assemblymember Lieber: On behalf of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, I would like to thank you for your timely assistance and support in obtaining another one-year legislative extension for the District's Habitat Conservation Fund Program grant of$325,000. This grant will be used to purchase a 58-acre private property, adjacent to the District's 3,300-acre Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve,preserving a key section of upper Lobitos Creek Watershed. Purchase of this property will protect the spawning areas of the federally threatened steelhead trout, and the habitats of the endangered red-legged frog and several species of concern, including Cooper's hawk, long-eared owl, golden eagle, osprey, and the western pond turtle. Please accept our gratitude and thanks for your dedication to open space preservation programs in the Midpeninsula area. Your ongoing support in obtaining this grant extension is very gratifying for the District,which has enjoyed not only your support,but that of our entire Sacramento delegation. Sincer y, L. Craig Britton General Manager LCB/ec cc: Board of Directors, Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District Ralph Heim, Public Policy Advocates 330 Distel Circle - Los Altos, CA 94022-1404 * Phone:650-691-1200 Fax:650-691-0485 * E-mail: mrosd@openspace.org * web site:www.openspace.org Board of Directors:Pete Siemens,Mary C. Davey,Jed Cyr, Deane Little, Nonette Hanko,Larry Hassett, Kenneth C. Nitz - General Manager:L.Craig Britton For Immediate Release ^ Contact: Anne Sharman June JZ, ZOO6 Director ofCommunications Phone: (650) 854'7695 � esharrnan@openspecetrust.org � www.openspacetnust.org � � New Public Seating Area Opens at Pigeon Point POST's Council Circle Benches � Enhance Accessibility, Honor Donors at Whaler's Cove (Menlo Park, Calif.) - In time for the summer travel season, the Peninsula Open Space Trust (POST) has completed construction of the new Council Circle seating area next to Pigeon Point lighthouse on the San Mateo County coast. The seating area, located just off Highway 1 south of Pescadero, opened to the public earlier this month. Port of Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic Park, the area includes a ring of two � semicircular benches nestled into a scenic bluff top in view of the lighthouse and Whaler's Cove. � "The addition of the Council Circle overlooking Whaler's Cove enhances the spectacular experience available to all at Pigeon Pqint," said Susan Ford Dorsey, Chair of POST's Board of Directors. "The site � honors members of our community who came together to protect this beautiful place, and now the public can enjoy the land just asitis for generations tocomne.^ � The benches, mode of yellow granite on a concrete base, list the names of special donors to POST's recently completed $200 nni||inn Saving the Endangered Coast campaign. A nearby information kiosk � highlights the history of the cove and the effort to protect it, while a lookout deck juts over the blufrs rocky cliff face to provide dramatic ocean views. The new Council Circle benches, kiosk and deck all comply with ADA standards of disability accessibility. � � Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic Park has long been a popular destination along the California coast. In 2000, POST purchased three acres of bluff top known as Whaler's Cove adjacent to the lighthouse. At the time, a developer had already begun erecting a nine-unit private motel on the land. Had POST not stepped into protect the property, the motel would have permanently blocked ocean � views and public access to the cove. � In 2001, POST tore down the motel units and, four years later, successfully transferred Whaler's Cove to California State Parks, reserving a public trail easement on the land. As part of the easement, POST opened Mel's Lane, a quarter-mile wheelchair-accessible path, to the public last fall. The path, � honoring long-time conservationist and POST co-founder Melvin Q. Lane, winds through the Council Circle as part of the 1,200-nni|e California Coastal Trail. � "We wanted to ensure that the unique beauty of Whaler's Cove would be available to everyone," said POST President Audrey Rust. "Thanks tothe partnership between California State Parks and POST, visitors to the coast now have an ideal stopping point along Highway 1 where they can soak in world- class views of Prisoner's Rook, AOo Nuevo Point and boundless ocean horizons." "California State Parks is committed to fostering the public's appreciation of our state's rich and diverse landscape," said Director of State Parks Ruth Coleman. ''The additions POST has made to Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic Park are truly commendable, allowing thousands of visitors a year to engage with the landscape ina rejuvenating and intimate way." � � POST is a leading private, nonprofit land trust dedicated to preserving the beauty, character and diversity of the � San Francisco Peninsula landscape. Since its founding/v1977| the organization has been responsible for saving � more than 55,000 acres as permanent open space and parkland in San Mateo and Santa Oane counties. Included /n that total are 24,I3J acres of coastal land POST has protected/h the last five years through its$J0Omillion � Saving the Endangered Coast campaign. Regional Open Space MIDPENINSUTA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT TO: Board of Directors FROM: L. Craig Britton Ge neral Man DATE: June 28 2006 RE: FYI s Regional Open Space MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT Memorandum To: Board of Directors From: L.Craig Britton,General Manage Date: June 28, 2006 Prepared by: Kirk Lenington Re: Monthly Summary Report-Resource Planning and Management Projects(May 2006) In order to better inform the Board regarding the progress on key Resource Planning and Management projects, Staff have prepared an integrated resource planning and management program monthly summary report. The first month's report(May 2006)is attached to this memorandum. Regular monthly reports will be included with your agenda packets for the second meeting of each month following the activity. Project information in the monthly summary report is organized into nine functional integrated resource planning and management program categories. Many projects overlap with several categories, in which case the project is included in only the primary category within which it best fits. Please note that there are many tasks within each category—for example,research,CEQA compliance, and monitoring are all tasks that are typically conducted for a project. These categories are listed and described below: Cultural Resources—Includes all activities to identify and protect significant archaeological,cultural,and historic resources. Ecological Restoration—Includes all activities with the primary purpose of restoring native habitats and vegetation in a previously degraded environment. An example of an ecological restoration project is the ongoing effort to restore the Christmas tree farm at Skyline Ridge OSP. Environmental Remediation—Includes all activities with the primary purpose of protecting and restoring the natural environment from contamination by hazardous materials. Rare,Threatened and Endangered Species Management—Includes all activities with the primary purpose of providing management and recovery for rare,threatened,or endangered plant and animal species on District lands. Resources Inventory—Includes all activities with the primary purpose of providing baseline information regarding the plant and animal species,habitats,or physical characteristics of District and surrounding lands, including the resources necessary to organize and use this information(i.e. GIS). Resource Program Planning and Policy Development—Includes all activities with the primary purpose of developing policies and procedures for the development of the resource planning and management program, including procedures for policy development; environmental review; collaborative efforts with outside agencies, adjacent property owners, and research institutions;budgeting, grants, funding, and staffing. Memorandum Re:Integrated Resou anning and Management Program,Monthly S40myRoport Page 2 Vegetation Management—Includes all activities with the primary purpose of managing plant species, both native and non-native, found within District lands. Examples of vegetation management projects would be livestock grazing to manage for native grasses and control exotic grasses or the mowing, spraying,pulling, and burning of exotic plant species such as French broom or Italian thistle. Water Quality Protection—Includes all activities with the primary purpose of protecting water quality including sediment reduction and erosion control. Wildlife Management—Includes all activities with the primary purpose of managing wildlife species, both native and non-native, found within District lands. Integrated Resource Planning and Management Program Monthly Summary: May 2006 Natural Resource Planning and Management Lead Progress Project/Description Department Cultural Resources Picchetti Ranch Winery Planning Initiated seismic upgrades to historic ib�uildin Ecological Restoration Skyline Ridge Tree Farm Restoration Operations Weeded and tended plantings with volunteers. Planning Volunteer Crew Leader Training Operations Trained new candidates on resource Planning management projects. Environmental Remediation Negotiated Scope of Services and schedule Pulgas Soil Investigation Planning and obtained authorization from San Mateo County Environmental Health Department. Rare,Threatened and Endangered Species Management Sensitive Amphibian and Reptile Survey FPIanning Negotiated Scope of Services and schedule._7 Resource Inventory Operations Los Trancos OSP-Foothills Connector Trail Surveyed biological resources along proposed age Mill Trail relocation route. Resource Program Planning and Policy Development 5-year MOU from California Department of Fish Administration Coordinated with CDFG to secure 5-year and Game(CDFG) Planning Memorandum of Understanding(MOU)for maintenance activities in waterways. Identified ideas generated by resource Resource Management Program Evaluation All management workshop, and reviewed consultant's draft report. Special Parks Districts Forum All Prepared Mills Creek OSP site and conducted tours at Mills Creek OSP. Vegetation Management Broom Control Operations Bum&spray broom at BCR, ECdM, ES(184 Public Affairs hours). Initiated contract and conducted project kick- District-wide Vegetation Classification Planning off meeting with consultant in San Francisquito Creek Watershed. Planning Completed Draft RFQ for grazing consulting Grazing Consultant Operations services with project team. Real Property Weeded planting area north of Hassler Loop, Invasive Vegetation Management at Pulgas Ridge Operations weeded plantings at Blue Oak parking lot OSP with volunteers,removed acacia(59 hours). Resource Planning and Management Program Page 2 Monthly Summary:May 2006 Vegetation Management(cont.) Assisted Oregon State University researchers Sudden Oak Death Infestation Study Operations in surveying multiple study sites and theninoculating tanoak trees at El Corte de Madera OSP(31 hours). Thistle Control Operations Mow&spray thistle at ECdM,VVH,PCR, TW,RR,RSA,LH,LR,MB (I I I hours). Water Quality Protection Consolidated Grant—San Francisquito,Creek Completed Grant Application for$200k to Watershed Sediment Control Planning install bridges and upgrade trails at Thornewood and Los Trancos OSP. Dennis Martin Creek Bridge at Thornewood Planning Issued ed RFP to solicit proposals for design and neerin9. ECdM Watershed Protection Program Planning Initiated bidding process to select contractor to install four new bridges. FEMA—Quoin Driveway Landslide at Russian Operations Conducted site visit with FEMA personnel to Ridge Planning determine potential project options and reimbursable expenses Attended final workgroup meeting for Guadulupe River Watershed Mercury TMDL Planning presentation of TMDL to discuss Legal implementation and monitoring components of plan. Road and Trail Erosion Inventory Planning Issued RFP to solicit proposals for San Francisquito,Creek Watershed Preserves. Water Quality Sediment Monitoring Operations Monitoring of stream conditions and training at La Honda OSP. Wildlife Management Bluebird boxes Operations 77[7Monitored nesting. Craig Subject: FVV Arson fire on Reynolds Road From: ]uhnMaciell Sent: Tuesday,June l7,ZOV§V:59AM � To: Craig Britton � Cc: ]ohnMaciel | Subject: Arson fire onReynolds Road � Craig, Last week I had a conversation with the lead investigator with Bureau of"ATF"Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms, who was investigating the barn fire at the former North House on Reynolds RoadinLoaGatoe(SiernoAzu| OpanSpacePnaserva — W1tUmunhumArea). He stated that his agency and local fire marshals were concern about the condition of the house on site and how it has become an attractive nuisance for the kids to congregate and party. They are requesting that we demo | | the house and clean up the area oo soon ospossible. Also, | have had o conversation with Dr. Richard Starrett who iea neighbor that lives up the road from the North House; he states that his family and neighbors living in the immediate area are very concern about the activities involving the house � and the fire exposure for the other residents in the neighborhood. ! � JohnKAacie| � yWidpeninsuhs Regional Open Space District Operations Manager � � 330Diaha| Circle � Los Altos,California A4O22-14O4 i Offiom85O-G91-12OO ' Dirent650'625-6557 � E-Mail: �jmaciel@openspace.org Web : � vpxxwnpanspmce�org � | � � � � � | � � � � � 1 � � -----Original Message----- From: Richard Starrett Sent: Saturday, MoyDS 20089:25AM Subject: nuisance Well, d finally happened early this morning. The old barn MidPen owns on Reynolds Road in Los Gatos � burned ho the ground, set on fire, | assume, bykids. There was a fresh pile of Bud Lite cans inthe � � driveway. The old farm house did not burn and the fire, luckily, did not spread. These old abandoned � buildings on your property are on attractive nuisance. This fire was entirely predictable, auyour patrol � staff will tell you. If this had happened just a little later in the year, when it is hot and dry, God knows � what mighth happened All of our houses would be endangered, lives could belost. Please arrange to demo the old farm house on Reynolds before u too burns down. This might ve a *=. site for a fire department or CDF training exercise, burn the thing down on purpose, Whatever you do, please do the responsible thing and eliminate this danger to the property of everyone living on Reynolds. Richard Starrett � 2O8GU Reynolds Rd, Los Gatos S5032 (408) 322-5439H (408)358-8272VV stmrnyM@honnennoi|.com � � � � � � � � � 5/24/2006 � � � INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM June 20, 2006 TO: L. Craig Britton, General Manager FROM: G. Baillie, Management Analyst SUBJECT: MONTHLY FIELD ACTIVITY SUMMARY Month May Year 2006 DISTRICT VIOLATIONS CITES TOTALS OTHER CRIMES TOTALS Bicycles Stolen vehicle I Closed area 3 4 Suspicious circumstances I Speed 6 6 Arson 2 Helmet 4 7 Minor in Possession of Alcohol 2 Night riding 0 1 Dogs ACCIDENTSANCIDENTS Prohibited area 1 2 Bicycle accident I Off-leash 7 7 Equestrian accident 0 Off-road vehicles 0 0 Hiking/running accident 0 Closed area 6 11 Other first aid 2 After hours 4 9 Search & Rescue I Fishing 0 0 Vehicle accident 2 Vandalism 6 13 LZ air evacuation I Parking 15 20 Fire 0 Parking after hours 2 11 Dumping 0 0 ENFORCEMENT Camping 0 0 Parking citations 17 Campfires 0 0 Other citations 37 Weapons Written warnings 30 Actual contact 0 0 Arrests 0 Evidence of 0 1 Police assistance 0 Vehicle closed area 0 0 Group w/out permit 0 1 MUTUAL AID Smoking 0 5 Accident 6 Vehicle closed area 0 0 Fire I Collecting plants 0 3 Law enforcement 0 Collecting insects 0 1 LZ for offsite I SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT INCIDENTS BY DATE Date 6 A ranger responded to a structure fire at the former North House at the top of Reynolds Road in Sierra Azul. The barn had was completely destroyed and still there were still names and smoke showing when the ranger arrived. Santa Clara County Sheriffs and ATF arson investigators investigated and determined that the fire was arson. There are no suspects at this time, but the investigation is continuing. 12 A ranger talked with a man who admitted he had been up to the former air base at Mount Umunhum. He had a digital camera with photos of the Air Force station. The man was cited for entering a hazardous closed area and released. The case has been filed with the Santa Clara County District Attorney's office. 12 A bicycle crash at Purisima resulted in a head injury. The cyclist crashed on the North Ridge Trail 1/4 mile from the parking area. A CDF Battalion Chief, who just happened to be in the area, rangers, Woodside Fire. and AMR treated the patient. CHP also responded due to confusion over the report of a highway accident. The patient was flown by LifeFlight to Stanford Hospital. 13 An illegal trail at El Corte de Madera was found reopened. It had been restored several years ago with the use of heavy equipment. 15 CDF reported an arson fire to the District through Mountain View Communications. It was located at Loma Prieta.and Loma Chiquita in Sierra Azul. There was a cargo trailer left standing on District land by a neighbor, which had been set on fire. There were also two other vehicles, which CHP towed. 28 A bicyclist experienced a seizure or cardiac event while resting on the Hawk Ridge Trail at Russian Ridge. District rangers were first on scene, provided oxygen to the patient, and evacuated him in a wheeled litter to a patrol truck. He was then driven to an ambulance near Hwy 35. The patient was transported to the hospital. County Fire and CDF also responded. 28 On Hwy 35 at Ward Road, adjacent to Long Ridge four dogs were running loose on the highway, creating a hazard. The dogs had escaped from a district rental residence within the Palo Alto city limits. Four vehicles had stopped to try to catch the dogs. A private citizen offered to transport the dogs to the Skyline office. Palo Alto Animal Control picked up the dogs the following day. 31 Mtn. View Communications called for ranger response to suspicious circumstances at the Jacques Ridge lot, Sierra Azul. A county ranger was on scene with two suspects who were possibly stripping a vehicle in the parking lot. Neither man had a valid drivers license. They were ordered to remove the rims and tires from vehicle#2 and put them back on vehicle#1. Vehicle#1 was towed by the Sheriffs' Department. The suspects were advised they could not drive vehicle#2 and that it must be removed by the end of the day. May vandalism 8 A chain link gate was cut at El Sereno. 13 A cut fence on Hicks road was found, with 4WD tracks on the former Davidson property in Sierra Azul. The tracks went into the preserve up the steep, recently restored road. 14 A ranger found that a 4'x4' steel window covering had been removed to gain access to the monolith at the former Almaden Air Force Station in Sierra Azul. In addition, two other accesses into the building had been vandalized. 16 On Alpine Road a regulation sign and the gate-mounted fire lane sign was shot with a high caliber firearm at Russian Ridge. 16 A locking post was removed from an entry gate to the former Rapley Ranch area of Russian Ridge. A vehicle had entered and the barn area had also been entered. 20 Graffiti on the door and wall of the restroom at the Jacques Ridge parking lot, Sierra Azul, was discovered. 31 There are approximately eleven new graffiti tagging on the buildings at Bear Creek Redwoods, with some being quite large. Regional Open Space ---------------- MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT June 29, 2006 DRAFT RESPONSE PREPARED BY STAFF FOR BOARD CONSIDERATION This letter is in response to your email dated June 19, 2006. The Board appreciates your concerns regarding management of nonnative plant species, and your specific attention to native plants versus invasive species such as yellow star thistle and harding grass in particular. At this time however, we are unable to provide you with any additional information than what was provided to you in our last letter of June 15, 2006. The District does not currently have or maintain the specific information that would answer the questions you submitted in your latest request. Please refer to the District's Website, www.openspace.org, for further information on the District's action plan, budget, and activities, including controlling nonnative plant species such as yellow star thistle and harding grass. We will update the site with new information as it becomes available. Thank you again for your interest and concern about these issues. Sincerely, Jed Cyr, President Board of Directors cc: MROSD Board of Directors 33o Distel Circle 650-6gi-1200 info@openspace.org BOARD OF DIRECTORS:Pete Siemens,Mary Davey,Jed Cyr, GENERAL MANAGER: Los Altos CA 94022-1404 650-6gi-0485 fax www.openspace.org Deane Little,Nanette Hanko,Larry Hossett,Kenneth C.Nitz L.Craig Britton � Jed Cyr, President M80SU Board of Directors Dear Mr. Cyr, � Thanks you for your letter dated June 15tb, answering my second email � about the District's weed management program. I appreciate you taking time to answer my questions, and your letter raises four more questions, � that I'd like to hear what the Board's reply is. � � 2. ) IS THE BOARD AWARE THAT THE DISTRICT'S NATIVE GRASSES AND WILDFLOWERS are � losing ground to the exotic plants every year, for example at the rate of 2% every 5 years at Russian Ridge preserve, and � there was less than 15% native grass cover left in 2003? � � If you chart the native grass cover at Russian Ridge over time, and � produce an Excel chart, you can observe the straight-line trend, that � the buucbgzaaa resources could potentially become extinct by 2030: � � Year B000bgzasn percent cover � 1850 90 � 1900 65 � 1960 35 � ' 1987 22 / 2006 13 2010 IO 2015 8 2020 5 � 2025 3 � 2028 2 2030 0 2. > What is the TOTAL PER ACRE COSTS, to manage either Yellow star thistle or Harding grass? Your letter suggests that the total per-acre total costa to manage either the Yellow Star thistle or the Harding Grass is about $I00, 000 per acre, which includes replanting one native grass into the eradictaed areas? What is the total costs per acre for each of those weeds? 3. > HAS THE DISTRICT ESTABLISHED A TIME FRAME, TO ERADICATE ALL 510 acres of Yellow Star Thistle and Harding Grass? Your letter said that the District has 400 acres of YST and IIO acres of Harding grass, and in the last ] years, the District has been able to manage 7 acres of YST and 2 acres of Harding grass. That means that District-wide, it would take over 150 years to completely manage either of those two weeds? Has the District established a time-frame, with a "drop-dead" date for all of the YST and Harding Grass to be eradicated? 4 . ) IS THE DISTRICT EVER GOING TO INVESTIGATE OBTAINING MORE EFFICE0T YELLOW STAR THISTLE AND 8&DDI0G GRASS TECHNOLOGIES? � At an estimated total cost of S100,000 per acre, means that the District will need to invest $51 million dollars, just to manage two weeds, and � � � - � | | � | get one native b000bgzaae back in place, and take over 150 years to manage each of them? At least for the Yellow Star thistle, nmcb cheaper and much more efficient Ecological Restoration technologies exist, because I invented three different YST technologies in the mid-I980o that don't use fire, polling, pathogens, biu000trol, or herbicides, to permanently eliminate YS7 within 90 days or less. I gave a talk about these technologies in Monterey a few years ago, that you can read at http://www,e0000edo.cmm/talk,btml and your District has know about these more efficient Ecological Restoration technologies for at least five years, but has never obnwo any desire to licensed those technologies. So will the District start trying to reinvent those technologies in-house, or start paying someone else to reinvent those successful � technologies, or hold an annual "Weed Contest" to find an inventor of ! other successful Ecological Restoration technologies, or try and obtain � technologies b aome ntbe� means? more efficient y � � I' ll look forward to your reply. Sincerely, Craig Dzemaoo Box 609, Redwood City, CA 94064 � (650) 325-7333 � � | � � | ^ | � � � � � � �