HomeMy Public PortalAbout20200708 - Agenda Packet - Board of Directors (BOD) - 20-14
SPECIAL AND REGULAR MEETING
BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
Wednesday, July 8, 2020
Special Meeting starts at 5:00 PM*
Regular Meeting at 7:00 PM*
A G E N D A
Consistent with Governor Gavin Newsom's Executive Order N-29-20, the Governor has allowed local
legislative bodies to hold public meetings via teleconference and to make public meetings accessible
telephonically or otherwise electronically to all members of the public seeking to observe and to address the
local legislative body or state body to avoid public gatherings, and has suspended all contrary provisions of the
Brown Act.
THIS MEETING WILL BE VIA TELECONFERENCE ONLY
1. The meeting can be viewed in real-time at: https://openspace.zoom.us/j/85417549253 or listen to the meeting
by dialing (669) 900-6833 or (346) 248-7799 (Webinar ID 85417549253).
2. Members of the public may provide written comments by submitting a public comment form
at: https://www.openspace.org/public-comment
• Comments on matters not on the agenda must be submitted prior to the time the board president calls
for public comments.
• Comments on agenda items must be submitted prior to the time public comment on the agenda item is
closed.
• All comments shall be subject to the same rules as would otherwise govern speaker comments at the
board of directors meeting.
• Electronic comments on agenda may only be submitted via the public comment form. Comments via text
or social media (Facebook, Twitter, etc.) will not be accepted.
Any comments received after the deadline, will be provided to the Board after the meeting.
5:00 SPECIAL MEETING OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE MIDPENINSULA
REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT – STUDY SESSION
ROLL CALL
1. Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District Mountain Lion Conservation Efforts (R-20-71)
Staff Contact: Matt Sharp Chaney, Resource Management Specialist II
General Manager’s Recommendation: Receive and discuss information about the status of mountain lion
(also known as ‘puma’, ‘cougar’, ‘lion’, Puma concolor) in California and the Santa Cruz Mountains,
and the conservation efforts and policies of the agency to protect mountain lion populations and reduce
potential conflicts from human-mountain lion encounters. No Board action required.
Meeting 20-14
Rev. 1/3/20
ADJOURNMENT
7:00 REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE MIDPENINSULA
REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
ROLL CALL
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
This portion of the agenda is for members of the public to comment on items not on the agenda;
however, the Brown Act (Open Meeting Law) does not allow action by the Board of Directors on items
not on the agenda. Individuals are limited to one comment during this section.
ADOPTION OF AGENDA
CONSENT CALENDAR
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 removed from the Consent
Calendar during consideration of the Consent Calendar.
1. Approve June 24, 2020 Minutes
2. Claims Report
3. Award of Contract for Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting at Eight Mitigation Sites for
Five Years (2020-2024) (R-20-74)
Staff Contact: Amanda Mills, Resource Management Specialist II
General Manager’s Recommendation:
1. Authorize the General Manager to enter into contract with Vollmar Natural Lands Consulting
for the base contract price of $81,292 to monitor eight mitigation sites for five years.
2. Authorize an allowance of $20,000 to be expended only if additional mitigation sites require
monitoring and reporting over the next five years.
3. Authorize a 10% contingency of $8,130 to be expended only if the eight mitigation sites do not
meet permit success criteria, additional years of monitoring are required, and/or additional
coordination with the permitting agencies is necessary, for a not-to-exceed total contract of
$109,422.
4. Award of Contract to Andreini Brothers for the ADA Barrier Removal Project at Russian
Ridge, Monte Bello, and Windy Hill Open Space Preserves (R-20-66)
Staff Contact: Sean Smith, Capital Project Manager II, Engineering and Construction Department
General Manager’s Recommendation:
4. Authorize the General Manger to enter into a contract with Andreini Brothers of Half Moon
Bay, CA, for the base amount of $429,504.
5. Authorize a 13% contingency of $55,836 to be reserved for unanticipated issues, bringing the
total contract to a not-to-exceed amount of $485,340.
5. Establish the Fiscal Year 2021 Tax Levy for the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space
District’s General Obligation Bonds - Series 2015A, Series 2015B, and Series 2018 (R-20-72)
Staff Contact: Andrew Taylor, Finance Manager
Rev. 1/3/20
General Manager’s Recommendation: Adopt Resolutions of the Board of Directors of the
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District for each of San Mateo, Santa Clara, and Santa Cruz
Counties to establish an ad valorem property tax levy of $1.50 per $100,000 (or $0.0015 per $100)
in assessed value for the General Obligation Bonds – Series 2015A, Series 2015B, and Series 2018
(Measure AA).
BOARD BUSINESS
Public comment on agenda items at the time each item is considered by the Board of Directors. Written
public comments will be provided to the Board prior to the meeting and posted on the District’s website
at www.openspace.org. All written comments submitted in accordance with the guidance posted on the
District’s website will be read into the record.
6. Review of 2020 State of California Legislative Session – Board of Directors Briefing on
Matters of Interest to Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District (R-20-73)
Staff Contact: Joshua Hugg, Governmental Affairs Specialist
General Manager’s Recommendations: Receive and discuss the 2020 State of California legislative
session update from legislative consultants: Public Policy Advocates LLC and Environmental and
Energy Consulting. No Board action required.
INFORMATIONAL MEMORANDUM
• Alma Bridge Road Newt Mortality Update
INFORMATIONAL REPORTS – Reports on compensable meetings attended. Brief reports or
announcements concerning activities of District Directors and staff; opportunity to refer public or Board
questions to staff for information; request staff to report to the Board on a matter at a future meeting; or
direct staff to place a matter on a future agenda. Items in this category are for discussion and direction to
staff only. No final policy action will be taken by the Board.
A. Committee Reports
B. Staff Reports
C. Director Reports
ADJOURNMENT
SPECIAL MEETING OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE MIDPENINSULA
REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT – CLOSED SESSION
ROLL CALL
1. CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATORS (Government Code Section
54956.8)
Property: Portion of San Mateo County APN: 066-280-050
Agency Negotiator: Michael Williams, Real Property Manager
Negotiating Party: Ben Wright, Peninsula Open Space Trust
Under Negotiation: Terms and Conditions
ADJOURNMENT
Rev. 1/3/20
*Times are estimated and items may appear earlier or later than listed. Agenda is subject to change of order.
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.
Written materials relating to an item on this Agenda that are considered to be a public record and are distributed
to Board members less than 72 hours prior to the meeting, will be available for public inspection at the District’s
Administrative Office located at 330 Distel Circle, Los Altos, California 94022.
CERTIFICATION OF POSTING OF AGENDA
I, Jennifer Woodworth, District Clerk for the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District (MROSD), declare that
the foregoing agenda for the special meetings of the MROSD Board of Directors was posted and available for
review on July 1, 2020, at the Administrative Offices of MROSD, 330 Distel Circle, Los Altos California, 94022.
The agenda and any additional written materials are also available on the District’s web site at
http://www.openspace.org.
Jennifer Woodworth, MMC
District Clerk
Rev. 1/3/18
R- 20-71
Meeting 20-14
July 8, 2020
SPECIAL MEETING AGENDA ITEM 1
AGENDA ITEM
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District Mountain Lion Conservation Efforts
GENERAL MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION
Receive and discuss information about the status of mountain lion (also known as ‘puma’,
‘cougar’, ‘lion’, Puma concolor) in California and the Santa Cruz Mountains, and the
conservation efforts and policies of the agency to protect mountain lion populations and reduce
potential conflicts from human-mountain lion encounters. No Board action required.
SUMMARY
Mountain lions in the Santa Cruz Mountains are under threat from several factors, including
habitat loss, habitat fragmentation, human caused mortality through vehicle strikes and
depredation, poor genetic diversity, and impacts from rodenticide poisoning. Mountain lions are
currently in a one-year review period for consideration of listing as a threatened species under
the California Endangered Species Act. The Santa Cruz mountain population is one of six
populations in the state that is considered at risk of localized extinction due to poor habitat
connectivity and genetic depression.
The Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District (District) has protected nearly 65,000 acres of
prime mountain lion habitat in the Santa Cruz Mountains and is committed to protecting regional
mountain lion populations by preserving habitat, increasing habitat connectivity, minimizing
human-wildlife conflicts, promoting bans and restrictions on rodenticide use, educating the
public about mountain lions, and supporting research that improves our understanding of lion
populations, ecology, and behavior throughout our region.
The District is committed in continuing to support healthy lion populations by furthering efforts
to preserve habitat and provide habitat connectivity throughout the Santa Cruz Mountains and
beyond. Additionally, the District is working towards amending the Grazing Management Policy
to address potential conflicts between wildlife and livestock while protecting lion populations.
The District is also exploring opportunities to further local understanding of mountain lion
habitat use, behavior, and potential habituation to humans by developing a wildlife photo index
project at Rancho San Antonio Open Space Preserve and partnering with the University of
California Santa Cruz Puma Project to develop a Human/Mountain Lion Interaction Study and
Management Plan.
R-20-71 Page 2
BACKGROUND
The presence of mountain lions is a strong indicator of ecosystem health. As apex predators,
lions play essential roles by regulating deer populations and supporting soil health, scavengers,
and decomposers that rely on nutrients and sustenance from decomposing carcasses. Where
healthy lion populations persist, deer behavior is influenced, resulting in reduced herbivory
within forest-edge habitats. Additionally, lion suppression of deer numbers reduces the
prevalence of Lyme disease by naturally managing the deer population that support large
numbers of ticks.
While lions provide many ecological services that improve ecosystem function as well as
directly benefit humans, they occasionally come into conflict with people. Continued loss of lion
habitat and urban expansion has increased the potential for human-lion conflicts. The most
common instances of human-lion conflict come in the form of mountain lions attacking
unprotected livestock or pets. Sheep and goats make up the majority of these attacks and in some
cases the livestock owner will request a depredation permit from the California Department of
Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) for the legal lethal removal of a mountain lion. According to CDFW
data, 75-85% of annual lion depredation permits are issued in response to sheep and goat losses.
Instances of livestock loss may also increase illegal hunting (poaching) of mountain lions.
On very rare occasion, mountain lions have attacked people. Since 1986 there have been only
seventeen confirmed mountain lion attacks on people in the state of California, most of which
resulted in minor injuries. Unfortunately, three of these attacks were fatal. In instances of
mountain lion attacks on humans, CDFW attempts to capture and humanely euthanize the
offending lion in order to protect public safety. Two of the seventeen confirmed attacks took
place on District preserves, highlighting the importance of District efforts to address human-lion
conflict. These two attacks occurred in 2014 at Picchetti Ranch Open Space Preserve, and most
recently, in February of 2020 at Rancho San Antonio Open Space Preserve. In both cases, the
victims of the attacks recovered from their injuries.
Permanent signage is posted at all preserve entrances to inform visitors of the presence of
mountain lions and provide instructions about what actions to take if a mountain lion is
encountered. In both cases of mountain lion attacks on District lands, the District promptly
requested CDFW response and coordinated with them throughout each incident. CDFW has the
primary reasonability for wildlife management throughout the state. In addition to coordinating
with CDFW, District staff implemented District wildlife response protocols, closed preserves,
and heightened warnings in surrounding areas to inform and protect visitors. Human-lion
conflict threatens mountain lion populations when mountain lions must be removed. There is
limited current scientific understanding of factors that influence human-mountain lion conflict as
well as appropriate management strategies to minimize these conflicts while protecting healthy
mountain lion populations. As a result, the District relies heavily on CDFW expertise, and its
role as an important partner who holds the responsibility for managing statewide mountain lion
populations.
R-20-71 Page 3
DISCUSSION
District Policy:
In 2014 the Board approved a set of Resource Management Policies (Attachment 1) that direct
the District’s resource preservation actions, which are summarized in the Resource Management
Mission Statement:
The District will protect and restore the diversity and integrity of its resources and ecological
processes for their value to the environment and to people, and will provide for the use of the
preserves consistent with resource protection.
Housed within these Resource Management Policies is the Wildlife Management Policy, which
has the following goal:
Maintain and promote healthy and diverse native wildlife populations.
This goal is supported by specific policies, which include the following:
• Policy WM-1: Understand and maintain the diversity of native wildlife.
• Policy WM-2: Protect, maintain and enhance habitat features that have particular value to
native wildlife.
• Policy WM-3: Protect animal populations against the impact of human actions.
• Policy WM-4: Protect and enhance the habitats and populations of special status animal
species
All of the above listed policies relate to the District’s mountain lion conservation efforts, which
include funding and support of ongoing lion research, preservation of lion habitat, increasing
habitat connectivity, reducing conflicts between humans and lions, public outreach and education
about lions, supporting legislation that regulates rodenticide use, and advocating for further legal
protections for vulnerable mountain lion populations.
Threats to and Status of Mountain Lions:
Mountain lion populations face several serious threats that put their chances of long-term
survival at risk. The largest of these threats come in the form of habitat loss and fragmentation.
Urban development and the expansion of roads and highways have diminished and fractured
suitable lion habitat, reducing the ability for mountain lions to survive, reproduce, disperse and
spread genes between disjunct populations. This has led to a lack of genetic diversity in several
mountain lion populations. A common representation of genetic diversity is ‘effective population
size’, which is an estimate of the number of animals in a population with free genetic exchange
with the same genetic diversity as the studied population. In fragmented habitats with limited
genetic exchange with adjacent populations (breeding), the effective population size may be
much lower than the actual population size. A recent study estimates the effective population
size in the Santa Cruz Mountain at 17 individuals (for reference, the current adult population size
is estimated to be between 33-66 individuals). Many conservation geneticists consider an
effective population of 50 or more as necessary to avoid a short-term risk of inbreeding
depression. Populations with poor genetic diversity are less resilient to disturbances like
drought, fire, and disease, and are at a higher risk for extirpation (localized extinction).
R-20-71 Page 4
Mountain lions also face threats from human-caused mortality events, including depredation
(permitted lethal removal of a mountain lion in response to the loss of a domestic animal),
poaching, and vehicle strikes. These issues reduce the number of individual lions, disrupt social
hierarchies by removing established adults, and compound issues of poor genetic diversity by
increasing the likelihood of inbreeding. In addition to direct mortalities, humans also impact lion
populations through secondary poisonings caused by the use of rodenticides.
On April 15, 2020, the California Fish and Game Commission (CFGC) voted unanimously to
evaluate mountain lions as threatened under the California Endangered Species Act (CESA). The
commission designated six Evolutionarily Significant Units (ESU) that include a region spanning
from the Santa Cruz Mountains to the southern Coast Ranges and into southern California. These
regions are home to at risk populations representing six of the ten known distinct populations of
mountain lions in the state. This decision triggers a one-year review period during which
mountain lions will be protected under CESA and will need to be considered during any
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) review process for applicable projects. The
District wrote a letter to the CFGC in support of the evaluation for listing (Attachment II) and
joined as signatories on letters from the Center for Biological Diversity and the Western Wildlife
Corridor Working Group. The District’s letter promotes robust research, expansion of wildlife
crossings and habitat conservation work, and assistance from CDFW to facilitate effective
human-mountain lion conflict management actions throughout the state. Recent mountain lion
population research suggests that the Santa Cruz Mountains differ from areas in southern
California in sustaining higher numbers of individual mountain lions but with low genetic
diversity.
Habitat preservation:
The District has protected nearly 65,000 acres of prime mountain lion habitat throughout the
Santa Cruz Mountains to date. With the exception of Ravenswood Open Space Preserve and the
Stevens Creek Nature Shoreline Study Area, all District preserves include viable mountain lion
habitat. Coupled with work of similar preservation agencies, District preserves make up a
regional greenbelt of connected habitat extensive enough to support the needs of wide-ranging
mountain lions that can require territories of up to ninety square miles. According to a recent
study by CDFW, continued protection of high-quality mountain lion habitat, along with
improved connectivity between these habitats, are the most essential factors in preserving the
species.
Habitat connectivity:
Highway 17 Wildlife and Regional Trail Crossing Project
The District is currently developing wildlife and regional trail crossings across Highway 17 to
connect over 30,000 acres of protected public lands. Well-placed and appropriately designed
wildlife crossings enable wide-ranging animals like mountain lions to roam while helping to
reduce wildlife-vehicle collisions and wildlife mortalities. The Highway 17 wildlife crossing
project is one of several local efforts to create connections between the Santa Cruz Mountains,
and the Gabilan and Hamilton mountain ranges.
A recent study by CDFW suggests that the Santa Cruz Mountains need 196,1170 acres of
protected mountain lion habitat to sustain a healthy lion population in perpetuity. Unfortunately,
R-20-71 Page 5
the Santa Cruz mountains do not contain that many acres of suitable lion habitat. This makes
connectivity a key factor for sustaining mountain lion populations in the region. When
completed, the Highway 17 Wildlife and Regional Trail Crossings Project will improve
connectivity between the northern and southern portions of the Santa Cruz Mountains and
facilitate dispersal into adjoining suitable habitat in the Gabilan and Hamilton ranges.
Human-Mountain Lion Conflict:
Grazing Management Policy Amendment
In the late 1990s, coastal residents expressed their support for extending the District’s boundaries
to include the San Mateo County Coast, where development was beginning to threaten the
area’s rural character and agricultural heritage. When District boundaries expanded in 2004, a
commitment to preserve agricultural land and rural character, and encourage viable agricultural
use of land resources, was made to the Coastside community and embedded in
the District’s Coastside mission statement:
To acquire and preserve in perpetuity open space land and agricultural land of regional
significance, protect and restore the natural environment, preserve rural character, encourage
viable agricultural use of land resources, and provide opportunities for ecologically sensitive
public enjoyment and education.
To date, the District has protected more than 11,000 acres of open space and agricultural land on
the San Mateo County Coast, including more than 40 percent of San Mateo County’s ranchlands.
The District has invested more than $16 million in land preservation, environmental
restoration, and ecologically-sensitive public recreation on these preserved coastal properties.
Coastal grasslands are one of the most biodiverse and threatened ecosystems in North
America, and in many cases depend on regular disturbances like grazing or fire to prevent
encroachment by introduced species, shrubs, and forest. These disturbances were historically
provided by wildlife herds and Native American burning practices.
Conservation grazing is distinguished from basic livestock production in that the primary
purpose for the use of livestock is to further the conservation goals of protecting and increasing
grassland habitat biodiversity, including populations of important pollinators. To accomplish
these goals, a Rangeland Management Plan is specifically customized for each grazing site that
sets specific management parameters, such as stocking rates, class of livestock, seasonality, and
duration of grazing activity. The District uses conservation grazing as a critical tool for
managing approximately 8,000 acres of coastal grasslands for ecological health, biodiversity, and
wildland fire safety. The District’s Conservation Grazing Program is a mutually beneficial
partnership with small-scale local ranchers on the San Mateo County Coast to accomplish
multiple goals aligned with the District’s mission.
The District began its conservation grazing program in 2007 to maintain and enhance the
diversity of native plant and animal communities by preserving grassland habitat, manage fuel
loads for fire protection, sustain the local agricultural community, and preserve the region’s rural
agricultural heritage. As the District continues to acquire new lands that may be included in the
conservation grazing program, there is a growing need to define the roles of the District and its
tenants in addressing wildlife and livestock conflicts when they arise. The District does not allow
R-20-71 Page 6
and will not consider allowing the take of mountain lions in response to predation of livestock,
even if allowed under state law. Amendments to the Grazing Management Policy are currently
under review that will provide greater guidance for the District’s conservation grazing program
to reduce and/or mitigate wildlife conflicts, further clarify the District’s role and strategy in
managing these conflicts, and set a clear understanding for grazing tenants of District provisions
for addressing these issues. The proposed amendments are specifically are focused on the
following:
• Further scientific research: Supporting science that informs wildlife and livestock
protection regionally. Researching the best tools to consider for proactively reducing
interactions between wildlife and livestock.
• Explore economic tools: These include adjusting reimbursements for confirmed losses
and adjusting rent to compensate for expected livestock loss.
Public Safety
The District follows up on all reported mountain lion observations submitted by staff,
consultants, and members of the public on District lands. These data, to the extent available, play
an important role in allowing staff biologists to evaluate trends in lion activity and determine the
appropriate response to potentially concerning mountain lion behavior. When a lion observation
takes place, Natural Resources staff contacts the reporting party and conducts an interview to
determine the specifics of the observation. Mountain lion observations are evaluated under the
District’s wildlife response protocols (Attachment III) and the District takes appropriate actions
to reduce risks to public safety, which include consultation with CDFW.
Working closely with biologists from CDFW, the District determines the appropriate response to
lion activities. The majority of mountain lion observations on District lands do not involve
concerning mountain lion behavior. However, there are occasions when mountain lions exhibit
threatening or unusual behavior, and in very rare and unfortunate instances, mountain lions have
attacked humans. As previously mentioned, two attacks on humans have occurred in District
preserves. One attack took place in 2014 at Picchetti Ranch Open Space Preserve, and another
occurred on February 16, 2020 at Rancho San Antonio Open Space Preserve. Both attacks
involved children and were non-fatal.
Rancho San Antonio Open Space Preserve (RSA) is by far the most popular District preserve
with over 700,000 visitors per year. The preserve is bordered by highly urbanized environments
to the north and east, Lehigh Permanente Quarry to the south, and acts as a peninsula of suitable
mountain lion habitat within this highly developed landscape. In addition, mountain lion prey
species, including their preferred prey of deer, attract mountain lions to the area. The
combination of highly suitable mountain lion habitat, surrounded by less suitable mountain lion
habitat in adjacent areas, and large influxes of human activity likely play a significant role in the
number of mountain lion observations the District receives from RSA. Since 2015, the District
has taken various actions in consultation with CDFW, including increased signage, public
educational tabling, and nine (9) separate preserve closures due to concerning mountain lion
behavior at RSA. The District continues to actively monitors mountain lion behavior and
coordinate with CDFW as needed.
District response to aggressive mountain lion behavior is science-based and multifaceted.
Aggressive behavior from a mountain lion is not always abnormal. If a lion has a stashed prey
carcass, or young nearby, they may not immediately retreat from the presence of humans.
R-20-71 Page 7
Because of this, the District often responds to concerning lion behavior by closing portions of
preserves for a one-week period. This gives lions a chance to consume any carcass they may be
guarding or relocate young to another den site. In instances when there are multiple reports of
aggressive lion behavior from different locations within one region within a short time-period,
the District may close an entire preserve. This may indicate that lion aggression is not related to
normal hunting/feeding or parenting behavior. In the tragic event of a mountain lion attack on a
human, District protocols require immediately closing the Preserve and contacting CDFW.
CDFW has jurisdiction over all wildlife in the state and acts on the behalf of public safety to
humanely euthanize any mountain lion that has attacked a human.
In addition to the actions stated above, the District has undertaken further proactive measures to
reduce the potential for human-lion conflict by 1) educating the public on mountain lion safety,
2) holding public education events to inform the public about lion activity, and 3) modifying
access to the preserves when warranted.
First, permanent preserve signage includes information about what to do if visitors see a
mountain lion and, in the event, that the District has received reports of a recent sightings,
increased temporary signage or warnings are posted in accordance with District protocols.
Second, with regard to public education, since 2017, the District has held annual “Mountain Lion
Awareness Week” tabling events where staff and volunteers provide onsite lion safety
information to preserve users at RSA. On May 28, 2020, the District also held a virtual live event
titled “Coexisting with Cougars”, which informed 380 participants on the District’s work to
conserve mountain lions and how to stay safe in lion habitat. Third, the District has modified its
management of the RSA preserve in order to reduce the chances of visitors encountering
mountain lions. Specifically, in response to an encounter in 2016 where joggers running at RSA
before sunrise were approached by a mountain lion, the District changed preserve operation
hours to discourage public access during non-daylight hours when lions are more active.
Rodenticides:
Research by the Department of Pesticide Regulation discovered that 92% of mountain lions
throughout California had been exposed to anticoagulant rodenticides. Rodenticide poisoning is
often linked to notoedric mange. This disease is caused by mites infesting the skin of animals
with compromised immune systems, making them weak and emaciated, impacting their ability to
survive.
In 2014, twelve bobcats at Rancho San Antonio Open Space Preserve died from notoedric mange
and dozens were reported sick. District research discovered that commonly available rat poisons
within a category of pesticides known as second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides (SGAR)
were linked to the bobcats’ illnesses. In response, District staff educated preserve neighbors
about the effects of rodenticides on wildlife and joined the ongoing effort to lobby the California
State Legislature in prohibiting the use of SGARs. In 2014, the legislature passed AB 2657
limiting access to SGARs to individuals with pest control licenses. The District also
implemented a new plant and animal pest management program in the preserves that focuses on
non-chemical controls and furthers its ongoing prohibition of SGARs on District land to protect
human and environmental health.
SGARs are still used to this day by pest control companies and continue to impact local
predators. In 2019, legislation to ban the use of SGARs in California (AB 1788) was pulled from
consideration and will be taken back up in 2020.
R-20-71 Page 8
Mountain Lion Research:
To facilitate scientific understanding of lion behavior, ecology, movement, and population
dynamics, the District has worked with and supported research efforts by the University of Santa
Cruz California (UCSC) Puma Project (for over a decade), CDFW, Pathways for Wildlife, and
the Bay Area Puma Project. The District has granted access to preserves for research activities,
provided grant funding, and coordinated with research organizations to facilitate groundbreaking
research that has improved scientific knowledge of lions in the Santa Cruz Mountains and
throughout the state. These efforts have helped identify suitable wildlife crossing locations, lead
to greater understanding of the genetic structure of mountain lion populations throughout
California, and informed the collective understanding of human impacts on lion populations and
behavior.
Future opportunities:
Rancho San Antonio Wildlife Photo Index:
Natural Resources staff are currently developing a Wildlife Photo Index project to deploy at
RSA. This project will rely on a system of wildlife cameras strategically placed to collect
standardized data on wildlife diversity, habitat use, and abundance relative to other species. This
study can inform the District on how lions are using habitat at RSA and what factors might
influence their movement patterns, including human activities and recreation. This project will
provide opportunities for community science and volunteer engagement in the form of outreach
and data management. This project is scheduled to begin in Fiscal Year 2020-21.
Human-Mountain Lion Interaction Study and Management Plan
The District has made exploratory steps in developing a lion collaring study at RSA and
surrounding preserves in partnership with the UCSC Puma Project. This project seeks to
understand the factors that influence interactions between humans and mountain lions, and
develop site-specific management actions for reducing the potential for human-lion conflict in
areas with high levels of human-lion encounters. The proposed five-year study will rely on GPS
accelerometer collar data to determine lion habitat use in relationship to numerous factors,
including human activity, habitat type, and trail characteristics. This study will also estimate the
local lion population at RSA and surrounding preserves to the extent possible.
FISCAL IMPACT
None.
BOARD COMMITTEE REVIEW
This item is being brought to the full Board given full Board interest.
PUBLIC NOTICE
Public notice was provided as required by the Brown Act.
CEQA COMPLIANCE
R-20-71 Page 9
Review and discussion of mountain lion status in California and the Santa Cruz mountains,
current and future District conservation efforts and policies relating to mountain lions, and work
to reduce potential human-lion conflicts is not a project subject to the California Environmental
Quality Act. Approval of future studies and projects related to the work discussed in this report
will be accompanied by appropriate CEQA review.
NEXT STEPS
The projects mentioned in this report are included in the District’s Fiscal Year 2020-21 Budget
and Action Plan. Below is a summary of the schedules for these projects:
Highway 17 Wildlife and Trail Crossing Project
• 2020-2022: Environmental review and Caltrans Project Report
• 2022-2024: Design (plans and specifications)
• 2025-2029: Construction (funding dependent)
Grazing Management Policy Amendment
• September 1, 2020: Planning and Natural Resources Committee Meeting
• October 28, 2020: Board Adoption of Policy
• 2021-2026: 5-Year Wildlife and Livestock Protection Efficacy Research
Wildlife Photo Index Project
• July 2020: Deploy camera array
• 2020-2022: Data collection and processing
Human-Lion Interaction Study and Management Plan
• July 22, 2020: Board approval of contract
• 2020-2025: Public outreach
• 2020-2025: Implementation of study with annual updates to Board
• 2025: Receive management plan
Attachments:
1. Resource Management Policies
2. District letter of support for evaluation of listing mountain lions
3. Wildlife Response Protocols
Responsible Department Heads:
Kirk Lenington, Natural Resources Manager
Prepared by:
Matt Sharp Chaney, Resource Management Specialist II
RESOURCE MANAGEMENT POLICIES
JULY 2018
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
ATTACHMENT 1
ATTACHMENT 1
RESOURCE MANAGEMENT POLICIES
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
Board of Directors:
Ward 1, Pete Siemens
Ward 2, Yoriko Kishimoto
Ward 3, Jed Cyr
Ward 4, Curt Riffle
Ward 5, Karen Holman
Ward 6, Larry Hassett
Ward 7, Zoe Kersteen-Tucker
General Manager:
Ana Maria Ruiz
ATTACHMENT 1
ATTACHMENT 1
i
TABLE OF CONTENTS
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS ......................................................................... II
PREFACE ............................................................................................... IV
I.DISTRICT RESOURCE MANAGEMENT PROGRAM ................ 1
II.VEGETATION MANAGEMENT ................................................... 6
III.WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT ........................................................ 12
IV.INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT ....................................... 18
V.WATER RESOURCES .............................................................. 23
VI.GEOLOGY AND SOILS ............................................................. 31
VII.SCENIC AND AESTHETIC RESOURCES ................................ 35
VIII.CULTURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT ................................ 39
IX.RESEARCH AND COLLECTION OF INFORMATION .............. 48
X.PUBLIC INTERPRETATION AND ENVIRONMENTAL
EDUCATION .............................................................................. 51
XI.GRAZING MANAGEMENT ........................................................ 55
XII.FOREST MANAGEMENT .......................................................... 60
XIII.ECOLOGICAL SUCCESSION ................................................... 69
XIV.HABITAT CONNECTIVITY ........................................................ 72
XV.WILDLAND FIRE MANAGEMENT ............................................ 78
XVI.CLIMATE CHANGE ................................................................... 86
XVII.GLOSSARY ............................................................................... 90
XVIII.REFERENCES ......................................................................... 105
APPENDIX A. CEQA CRITERIA .......................................................... 106
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
DISTRICT STAFF
Ana Ruiz, Planning Manager
Brian Malone, Skyline Area Superintendent
Casey Cleve, GIS Coordinator
Cindy Roessler, Senior Resource Management Specialist
Clayton Koopman, Resource Specialist
Craig Beckman, Maintenance and Resource Supervisor
David Sanguinetti, Operations Manager
Deane Little, (former) Board member
Duncan Simmons, (former) Assistant General Counsel
Erica Simmons, (former) Open Space Planner
Galli Basson, Planning Technician
Jeannie Buscaglia, Administrative Assistant
Julie Andersen, Resource Planner
Ken Nitz, (former) Board President
Kirk Lenington, Senior Resource Planner
Kristi Britt, Public Affairs Specialist
Lisa Infante Bankosh, Open Space Planner
Mary Davey, (former) Board President
Matt Baldzikowski, Resource Planner
Matt Freeman, (former) Planning Manager
Meredith Manning, Senior Planner
Mike Williams, Real Property Manager
Renee Fitzsimons, Docent Program Coordinator
Rudy Jurgensen, Public Affairs Manager
Stan Hooper, Maintenance and Resource Supervisor
Stella Cousins, (former) Resource Planner
Sue Schectman, General Counsel
CONSULTANTS AND PARTNERS
Alida Bray, President and CEO,
History of San Jose
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Chris Spohrer, Resource Ecologist,
California State Parks
Darrell Wolf, Battalion Chief,
California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire)
Dr. Grey Hayes, Coastal Training Program Coordinator,
Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve
Dr. Jennifer Parke, Professor of Ecology,
Oregon State University
Dr. Jerry Franklin, Professor of Ecosystem Analysis,
University of Washington
Dr. Orrin Sage, Principal,
Sage Agricultural Services
Dr. Susan Frankel, Director Sudden Oak Death Research,
US Forest Service
Gail Raabe, Agricultural Commissioner,
San Mateo County
Jack Olsen (former) Executive Administrator,
San Mateo County Farm Bureau
Jonathan Owens, Hydrologist/Engineer,
Balance Hydrologics, Inc.
Laura Jones, Director of Heritage Services,
Stanford University
Elizabeth Clevenger, Archaeological Collections Specialist,
Presidio Trust
Mark Hylkema, Archeologist,
California State Parks
Paul Ringold, Director, Land Stewardship,
Peninsula Open Space Trust
Tim Frahm, Director Conservation & Agricultural Water Quality Program,
San Mateo County Farm Bureau
Tim Hyland, Resource Ecologist,
California State Parks
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PREFACE
ABOUT THIS DOCUMENT
Document Purpose
This Resource Management Policies (RMPs) document defines the poli-
cies and practices used by the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
(District) to protect and manage resources on District lands. The word
resources as used in this document includes plants, animals, water, soil,
terrain, geologic formations, historic, scenic, and cultural features. Rec-
reational resources are described in other documents.1
The purpose of the RMPs is to:
♦ Set the framework for the District's resource management program;
♦ Provide general guidance for issue-specific and site-specific planning;
♦ Provide staff and Board a tool for informed, consistent, and effective re-
source management decision making;
♦ Inform the public of the purpose and intent of the District's resource
management program;
♦ Provide a basis for evaluating the District's progress in reaching its re-
source management objectives.
This document does not provide detailed plans for management of individ-
ual preserves or resources. Other more specific master plans, site plans,
and resource management plans will supplement these policies to further
refine and resolve the implementation strategies on a site-specific basis.
The suitability and scope of implementation of a specific RMP can only be
effectively determined on a site-specific or issue-specific basis given the
1 These documents include Use and Management Plans for individual
preserves, Trail Use Guidelines and Mitigation Measures, Land Use Regulations
and the Visitor's Guide to the Open Space Preserves.
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circumstances and conditions to be addresses. The suitability or effective-
ness of a RMP may depend on a number of factors. These may include
evaluation of potential environmental impacts associated with the RMP,
physical or other constraints, availability of funding, and feasibility of im-
plementation. Therefore, the determination of whether and to what extent
a RMP is implemented in whole or in part will be made on a site-or issue-
specific basis. In some circumstances, deviations from an RMP will repre-
sent a more effective resource management approach given applicable
factors.
In addition, carrying out and implementing RMPs will be achieved over
time, and is subject to funding availability and competing District needs
and overall feasibility. Competition for District funds requires balancing the
expense of resource management with the cost of continued land acquisi-
tion, project planning, and the cost of access and facilities improvements.
Document Organization
The RMPs are organized into chapters by subject and resource category.
The chapter format generally consists of a background section and a sec-
tion containing goals, policies, and implementation measures. The back-
ground section provides rationale for the goal and policies that follow. The
goal is phrased as a broad, general statement describing the desired state
or condition to be achieved. The policies state what steps the District will
take in order to attain that goal. Policies are numbered according to chap-
ter with the first letter of each of the fist two words of the Chapter title
followed by a number (e.g. VM-1 is Vegetation Management Policy 1).
Each policy includes one or more recommended implementation
measures, highlighted by bullets (). Implementation measures specify
action items the District will strive to carry out to apply the policies to the
landscape where feasible. Implementation measures are referenced in-
ternally according to bullets. For instance, VM-1: Measure 2 refers to the
second bulleted measure under VM-1. Informational sidebars identify cur-
rent knowledge and practices regarding resource conservation. Key words
are noted in bold and definitions for each can be found in the Glossary.
The District will apply the RMPs to every day District functions and opera-
tions from the planning of new trails and facilities to the evaluation of new
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prospective land acquisitions, to routine Preserve maintenance. It will
draw upon varied expertise to balance resource needs and public inter-
ests. The annual action plan will describe existing and proposed resource
management plans and projects, and progress towards resource manage-
ment goals.
Document Review and Amendment
The RMPs comprise a "living" document that will grow and change regu-
larly, based on new experience and information. It will be reviewed and
updated every five to ten years and chapters amended as needed to re-
spond to ever-changing resource conditions (e.g. insect or disease out-
breaks, large cataclysmic events, climate change etc.). The staff or Board
may decide to amend the document for a significant single purpose at any
time.
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I. DISTRICT RESOURCE
MANAGEMENT PROGRAM
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE
DISTRICT
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District (District) is a public agency
that owns and manages 26 open space preserves totaling over 59,000
acres of land (as of 2011). Created by a voter initiative in 1972, the Dis-
trict's mission statement is “To acquire and preserve a regional greenbelt
of open space land in perpetuity; protect and restore the natural environ-
ment; and provide opportunities for ecologically sensitive public enjoyment
and education.”
District boundaries enclose an area of 227,900 acres in northern Santa
Clara and southern San Mateo counties, and a small portion of Santa Cruz
County. The District’s Sphere of Influence, or the area within which the
District is likely to expand, includes an additional 12,333 acres. Extending
from Montara in the north to the Lexington Hills in the south, the District
directly serves more than 25 communities having a combined population
of over 700,000. Preserves vary in size from 59 acres (Stevens Creek
Nature Study Area) to over 17,000 acres (Sierra Azul). Elevations range
from sea level in the baylands preserves to 3,486 feet atop Mount
Umunhum in the Sierra Azul Range.
The District manages land primarily to preserve a regional greenbelt of
open space land. There are few improvements, other than parking areas,
some rest rooms, and informational signs. Over 220 miles of public trails
invite activities such as hiking, biking, jogging, horseback riding, dog walk-
ing, and picnicking limited only as required. The preserves are open to the
public every day, free of charge. Because the preserves are “close to
home,” they serve as popular weekday and weekend recreational destina-
tions.
District lands protect a variety of habitats rich in both numbers and variety
of plants and animals. The District preserves tidal salt marshes in the east,
home to the endangered clapper rail and salt marsh harvest mouse and
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used by thousands of migratory birds. The heart of the District straddles
the eastern and western flanks of the Santa Cruz Mountains. These lands
are covered in a diverse mix of oak woodland, grassland, chaparral,
coastal scrub, and both evergreen and coniferous forests that form an
impressive scenic backdrop for the densely populated San Francisco Bay
Area and Central California Coast. Creeks and streams that run through
District lands provide refuge area for endangered coho salmon and threat-
ened steelhead trout. The natural setting of District preserves provides a
peaceful refuge for visitors seeking low intensity recreational opportunities
away from the pressures of urban life.
PURPOSES OF OPEN SPACE
Open space consists of land and water areas that remain in a natural state
and are minimally developed. Open space may include compatible agri-
culture uses. Open space preserves provide protection in the form of per-
manent sanctuaries for native wildlife and vegetation. These irreplacea-
ble resources are rapidly disappearing as human presence and activity
encroach into natural areas. Reasons to preserve open space that are
discussed in the District's Master Plan include protecting scenic beauty,
public health and safety, natural, cultural and agriculture resources; shap-
ing urban growth; and providing low-intensity outdoor recreation opportu-
nities and environmental education.
NEED FOR RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
POLICIES
Resource management at the District includes management of both natu-
ral cultural and agricultural resources. Natural resource management gen-
erally consists of protecting, restoring, enhancing, and monitoring native
vegetation and wildlife, and monitoring and protecting the quality of geo-
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logical and hydrological conditions. Cultural resource management con-
sists of identifying and evaluating and protecting archeological sites and
cultural landscapes.
The District faces many issues, challenges, and choices in management
of District land and sensitive resources. Land acquisition is politically, so-
cially, and opportunistically driven, sometimes independent of resource
needs. Defining, identifying and communicating resource needs and man-
agement objectives provides for more informed decision making, guides
property acquisition, and results in better protection of land and sensitive
natural and cultural resources.
The complex and constantly changing ecosystems of District preserves
are comprised of a wide variety of interrelated components resources that
sometimes have competing needs for preservation. Managers must be
able to recognize, distinguish, and decide among competing priorities.
Compounding these inherent challenges is the change in open space
management needs over time: the amount of land managed by the District
continues to grow; employees and board members who function as care-
takers change; funding sources come and go; and the public's interests,
values, and use patterns differ over both time and place; and visitation
continues to increase which can place increased pressure upon natural
systems. A well-defined set of policies is essential for the District to main-
tain consistent and effective resource management despite these
changes.
The Basic Policy adopted March 10, 1999 directs the District to:
“follow management policies that ensure proper care of the land, that
provide public access appropriate to the nature of the land, and that
are consistent with ecological values and public safety.”
Although the Basic Policy implies a direction for managing the land, it does
not offer specific guidance as to what constitutes “proper care.” These
RMPs are intended to provide that guidance.
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MISSION STATEMENT FOR RESOURCE
MANAGEMENT
The resource management mission statement defines the purpose toward
which the District directs its resource management efforts. The District's
resource management program is one of stewardship not only intended to
protect resources and to sustain them in perpetuity. The District calls its
lands “preserves” rather than “parks,” emphasizing the goal of resource
preservation. The following overall mission statement reflects the District's
commitment to resource management:
Resource Management Mission Statement
The District will protect and restore the diversity and integrity of its re-
sources and ecological processes for their value to the environment and
to people, and will provide for the use of the preserves consistent with
resource protection.
Overall Resource Management Strategies
The following general strategies summarize how the District will achieve
its resource management mission.
Strategy 1 Favor protection of resources when use significantly inter-
feres with resource protection and preservation.
Strategy 2 Provide an effective interdisciplinary program to protect
and enhance natural and cultural resources. This pro-
gram should include planning, interpretation, research,
protection, maintenance, and monitoring practices.
Strategy 3 Prevent or minimize human-caused and accelerated im-
pacts, including erosion, invasion by non-native species,
disruption of the natural flow of water, degradation of wa-
ter quality, trampling of vegetation, and displacement of
wildlife.
Strategy 4 Protect and restore known rare, endangered, special sta-
tus species and sensitive habitats, as well as seriously
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degraded or deteriorating areas. Give priority to sensitive
habitats and consider the relative scarcity of the specific
resources involved.
Strategy 5 Manage open space as a composite resource, rather than
as separate and isolated parts. Maintain ecological pro-
cesses as well as individual species and features. Con-
sider the regional context and cumulative impacts of re-
source management decisions. Favor long-term goals
over short-term benefits.
Strategy 6 Support low intensity recreational and agricultural use of
District lands consistent with resource protection. Con-
sider present and potential use.
Strategy 7 Balance efforts to protect and restore resources with ef-
forts to acquire and provide public access to lands.
Strategy 8 Monitor changing conditions and the effectiveness of re-
source management practices.
Strategy 9 Increase public knowledge, understanding, and apprecia-
tion of the natural and cultural resources of the preserves,
and support for their conservation.
PLANNING AND IMPLEMENTATION
The RMPs are to be used to guide the overall planning, budgeting, and
decision making processes for individual Preserves and for District-wide
programs. Implementation of the policies will be through the Use and Man-
agement Plan and Master Plan for each Preserve. The District’s Land Ac-
quisition Policies shall reference the RMPs to help guide future land ac-
quisitions. Successful implementation of the Policies will result in informed,
consistent, and effective resource management.
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II. VEGETATION MANAGEMENT
BACKGROUND
District Plant Communities
The District is located along the western edge of the North American con-
tinent on a geologically active peninsula between the Pacific Ocean and
San Francisco Bay, which limits migration of plants and animals. This
unique location is dominated by the Santa Cruz Mountains which are in-
fluenced by a Mediterranean climate comprised of mild wet winters and
long hot and dry summers cooled by cyclical coastal fog. Because of this
climate regime, the landscape is subject to periodic fire. The San Andreas
Fault, one of the world's longest and most active faults, cuts through the
eastern side of the Santa Cruz Mountains. Continuing movement along
the fault and differing composition of the underlying rocks created many
soil types and terrain features including steep, narrow canyons, rolling
hills, and flat bay lands. The eastern edge of the District is heavily influ-
enced by the urban areas of San Francisco, San Jose and other peninsula
cites which result in natural lands that are often used as a large “urban
backyard” rather than a pristine wilderness. These and other factors have
shaped diverse and dynamic native plant communities that are precisely
adapted to these complex and varied conditions.
A plant community is a group of plants growing in an interrelated manner
on a particular site. Each community has characteristic dominant and as-
sociated species, spacing, and habitat.
Native plant communities in District preserves include the following gen-
eral vegetation types:
♦ Salt marsh and brackish marsh
♦ Freshwater marsh
♦ Redwood forest
♦ Douglas fir forest
♦ Coastal scrub
♦ Chaparral
♦ Mixed evergreen forest
♦ Riparian forest
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♦ Native grassland
♦ Oak woodland
The condition of vegetation affects other resources in the preserves. A
mixture of natural plant communities gives scenic character to a land-
scape, and provides the diversity and stability needed to support native
wildlife, clean water and reduce erosion. Loss or fragmentation of plant
communities reduces their ability to provide the full range of ecological
benefits, including maintenance of species diversity, soil and watershed
protection, wildlife, and recreational and aesthetic values. It is the main
reason why animal species have become endangered or threatened.
Alterations to Vegetation
Continuing effects of past and present land use practices, including fire
suppression, grazing, logging, non-native plant invasion, feral animals,
and uses which trample vegetation, threaten the District's native plant
communities. Such activities have caused drastic and rapid changes in
vegetation. In some areas the alteration is permanent.
Protection of Sensitive Species
A number of plants listed by either federal or State agencies or the Cali-
fornia Native Plant Society as rare, threatened, endangered, and of limited
distribution have been identified within or near District preserves. Site-
specific information is needed for both existing and new properties to pro-
tect sensitive species.
Ecological Restoration
Ecological restoration is the process of returning land that has been de-
graded and disturbed into ecologically functioning habitat. The District of-
ten employs the principles of ecological restoration when performing veg-
etation management. Vegetation management is the maintenance, es-
tablishment, or restoration of target vegetation that meets a preserve's
management objectives. The term revegetation is used to describe the
process of replacing existing vegetation or bare ground on a site with ap-
Ecological restoration is an
intentional activity initiated by
the District that accelerates
the recovery of an
ecosystem with respect to its
health, integrity and
sustainability. Frequently,
ecosystems requiring
restoration have been
degraded, damaged,
transformed, or destroyed by
direct and indirect human
actions.
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propriate plant species. Selecting effective vegetation management strat-
egies requires understanding natural ecological processes at a specific
site. It also may involve coordinating with neighbors, as part of the Dis-
trict's "good neighbor" policy. The District applies ecological restoration
when it replaces landscaping with native vegetation, stabilizes slopes or
restores degraded sites with natural drainage patterns.
Management measures may include actions such as eliminating or re-
stricting activities that destroy vegetation, restoring grasslands and mead-
ows that were formerly maintained by natural processes, conducting pre-
scribed burns, managing conservation grazing, and either planting or re-
moving vegetation.
Fire Suppression
Periodic fires were a part of natural ecological processes on lands which
now make up the District preserves. As a result, many species evolved
with fire adaptations and need periodic fire for renewal. Fire opens forests
to new generations of younger trees, purges grassland of invasive shrubs,
and stimulates seed germination and shoot growth in chaparral. Without
fire, fire-adapted communities are eventually replaced by forest, and plant
and animal species are lost. Fuel in unburned areas can build up to such
a high level that when a wildfire occurs, it can have devastating effects.
Local Native Americans allowed natural fires to burn and also deliberately
set fires to clear underbrush and create meadow areas attractive to deer
and other animals. Open meadows improved visibility for hunting and en-
couraged the growth of acorn oaks and other edible plants. Subsequent
implementation of fire suppression policies eliminated these benefits, re-
versing their positive environmental effects.
Impacts of fire suppression continue to reduce biodiversity in the pre-
serves. Grasslands and oak woodlands are decreasing in area due to
invading brush and forest species. Stands of coastal scrub and chaparral
have aged and are not being renewed. Dense tangles of brush and young
trees have largely replaced the park-like understory beneath redwood and
Douglas fir forests and mature oak woodlands described by early Euro-
pean explorers.
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High Use Areas
High use areas such as those around parking lots, visitor centers, re-
strooms, and specially surfaced or whole access trails, require more inten-
sive vegetation management than natural areas that make up the bulk of
District land.
VEGETATION MANAGEMENT GOALS,
POLICIES, AND IMPLEMENTATION
MEASURES
Goal VM- Sustain and promote viable and diverse native
plant communities characteristic of the region
Policy VM-1 Maintain the diversity of native plant communities. (See WR-
7, ES-1, IS-2, and FM-6)
♦ Map and describe plant communities; analyze successional trends
and formulate site-specific vegetation management goals as part of
the Resource Management Plan for a preserve or geographic area.
♦ Identify appropriate areas for restoring lost or altered native plant com-
munities and restore them to a natural condition. This is often best
done by restoring natural processes and controlling invasive plants,
rather than by planting.
♦ Manage native grassland sites to encourage reestablishment and per-
petuation of California native grasses.
♦ Manage oak woodland to encourage reestablishment and perpetua-
tion of California native oaks.
♦ Control invasive non-native plants. (See Section VI.)
Policy VM-2 Use native species occurring naturally on similar sites in
ecological restoration projects.
♦ Use seed and cuttings collected from the same geographic area to
revegetate or enhance degraded areas. One source of native seed
is topsoil or mulch taken from adjacent intact habitat and applied thinly.
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♦ Use fill, mulch, and seed mixtures that are as free as possible of non-
native plants in ecological restoration projects. Know where such ma-
terials come from. (See GS-2 for possible exception.)
♦ Work with nurseries to grow native plants needed for ecological resto-
ration projects.
♦ Avoid seeding with rye grass (unless sterile), "Zorro" fescue, Harding
grass, or other non-native aggressive plants after fires to control ero-
sion.
♦ Use plant material that is biologically and visually appropriate to the
surrounding wild landscape and appropriate to the stage of plant com-
munity development at the site.
♦ Encourage District tenants to use native plants for landscaping to pro-
vide natural habitat.
Policy VM-3 Protect and enhance the habitats and populations of special
status plant species.
♦ Identify the location and condition of special status plants and their
habitats as part of the Resource Management Plan for a preserve or
geographical area.
♦ Conduct surveys for special status plants during the appropriate sea-
son before significant site-specific development or any unusual antic-
ipated increase in use. Modify the project or use to avoid impacting
such plants.
♦ Protect areas with special status species from human activities and
other negative impacts such as erosion. Examples of protective
measures include trail rerouting, signs, and fencing. (See GS-2)
Policy VM-4 Manage forest diseases, when necessary, to protect native
biological diversity and critical ecosystem functions.
♦ Develop a plan to detect, report, and monitor areas infested by high
priority insects and diseases; utilize sanitation and best management
practices (BMPs) to control the spread of infestations; train staff and
educate the public; and support research to guide land management
decisions.
Special status species are
species that are state or
federally listed as
threatened, rare,
endangered, species of
special concern, candidate
species, or those plant
species listed by the
California Native Plant
Society’s list 1B and 2.
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♦ Prioritize research and management activities to slow the spread of
Sudden Oak Death (SOD) and actively pursue partnerships with
other public agencies to develop treatment alternatives.
Sudden Oak Death (SOD) is
a prevalent disease of
particular concern within
District forested lands. SOD
has killed over one million
native oak and tanoak trees
and infests many other forest
species in one Oregon and
14 coastal California
counties. Hundreds of dead
tanoak trees and other
symptoms of the SOD
pathogen, Phytophthora
ramorum, are commonly
seen on the District’s
preserves. There currently is
no cure for SOD, and as with
other extensive forest
diseases, a strategy may
take decades to develop.
The District has adopted a
ten-year plan to slow the
spread of SOD,
collaboratively study impacts
on wildland ecology and
recreation, and develop a
restoration strategy for
heavily infested forests.
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III. WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT
As pressures from the expanding human population increase, District pre-
serves become more important as refuges for wildlife. The term wildlife
as used here includes all animals, from the smallest invertebrates to the
largest mammals. Without a sufficient amount of proper habitat, an ani-
mal cannot survive. As a result, most management of native wildlife in-
volves management of habitat conditions and habitat impacts from visitor
activities rather than hands-on management of the animals themselves.
Protection of habitat is key to protection of wildlife.
BACKGROUND
Animal Habitat Characteristics
Habitat refers to the area where an organism occurs, its natural home or
"neighborhood." An animal's habitat includes plant communities which
provide the shelter, food, and water it needs to live and reproduce. Other
aspects of the environment that affect an organism, such as geographic
location, climate, and topography, are also part of its habitat.
Animals move from place to place and require a variety of land, both daily
and seasonally. Some have precise habitat requirements; others are more
flexible. Some species live their entire lives within one vegetation type.
Others use several vegetation types in a single day or use different habi-
tats at different stages of their lives. Some animals use one habitat for part
of the year and migrate elsewhere for the rest. Ultimately it is important to
preserve all these habitats to ensure continued wildlife diversity.
The habitats most important for wildlife are those which offer food, cover,
topography, and other parameters essential to survival and reproduction.
Examples include springs and seeps, nesting and breeding sites such as
standing dead trees, movement and migration corridors, pathways to per-
ennial streams, and foraging areas. Some of these habitats are consid-
ered sensitive, in that they are vulnerable to disturbance and do not re-
cover easily once disturbed.
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The Importance of Riparian, Pond, and O ther Wetland
Habitats
Certain habitats are intensively used by many kinds of wildlife. Riparian
(streamside), pond, and other wetland habitat, with their wide variety of
plants and readily available water, are perhaps the most important. These
habitats provide a drinking source; dense, green foliage for cover and
food; shade in which to rest and escape the heat; perennial or seasonal
water bodies which are required for breeding by some amphibian and
other wildlife species, and protected corridors through dry, open areas.
Almost all species of wildlife depend on external sources of water and will
often travel long distances to reach it. People are also attracted to water,
especially ponds and riparian areas. Excessive human use can cause
problems from trampling, soil compaction, destruction of vegetation, alter-
ation of water quality and temperature, introduction of pathogens or foreign
substances and species, and frequent disturbance of wildlife.
Predators Indicate Habitat Health
The presence of large predators is a strong indicator of a healthy habitat.
Large predators are at the top of the food pyramid and depend on the
availability of large numbers of smaller animals. The greenbelts of District
and neighboring public lands in the Skyline and Sierra Azul areas are large
and diverse enough to support such wide-ranging predators as black bear
(although no resident black bears are present in the Santa Cruz Mountains
presently), mountain lion, coyote, bobcat, fox, badgers, and numerous
hawks and owls. The chance to see such animals is a big incentive for
many people to visit the preserves.
Results of Habitat Fragmentation
In the last century, population growth, urban expansion, and construction
of roads and highways have fragmented habitats and interrupted wildlife
movement corridors. Fragmentation has four main consequences for wild-
life:
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a. Isolated habitat patches may not be large enough to support wildlife
that requires a certain size of habitat. Fragmentation may also destroy
particular plant species that some animals require for food or cover.
b. Wide-ranging animals such as the larger predators can be cut off from
territories they need for feeding and breeding.
c. Non-native species become more common, displacing natives and
thereby also reducing biodiversity.
d. Inbreeding increases when populations are cut off from neighboring
populations. The resulting lack of diversity in the gene pool weakens
the species through “inbreeding depression” and reduces the popula-
tion's long-term chance of survival. A single environmental change or
disease could then eliminate all members of the local population.
WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT GOALS,
POLICIES, AND IMPLEMENTATION
MEASURES
Goal WM- Maintain and promote healthy and diverse native
wildlife populations
Policy WM-1 Understand and maintain the diversity of native wildlife.
(See WR-6 and WR-7)
♦ Identify wildlife usage, movement patterns, and habitat features with
high value to wildlife.
♦ Consider and avoid or minimize impacts on wildlife when planning
trails and other facilities.
♦ Develop a wildlife data base to record wildlife sightings and guide
management decisions.
♦ Non-native wildlife release on District lands shall adhere to the policies
identified in the Integrated Pest Management chapter (See IPM).
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WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT
15
♦ The District shall strive to control or remove non native wildlife using
management actions identified in the Integrated Pest Management
chapter (See IPM).
♦ Native wildlife shall not be released onto District land if it is adapted to
urban conditions or interaction with human.
♦ Native wildlife can be released onto District preserves if the animal
has been rehabilitated by an animal rescue center specializing in wild-
life, it is disease-free, suitable unoccupied habitat is available, and
there is a high likelihood for the animal to adapt and survive in its new
surroundings without adversely affecting existing resources at the site.
The rehabilitated animal should be marked or banded, if feasible, to
allow monitoring of its adaptation.
Policy WM-2 Protect, maintain and enhance habitat features that have
particular value to native wildlife. (See HC-2: Measure 5,
WR-6 and WR-7)
♦ Inventory critical and sensitive wildlife habitats and develop manage-
ment strategies for their protection.
♦ Leave brush piles, snags, and fallen trees in areas where they do not
pose a fire hazard or visual blight, to provide cover and nesting sites
for animals, and nursery conditions for forest seedlings.
♦ Evaluate the wildlife habitat value associated with human-made struc-
tures before altering or removing them and avoid or mitigate any im-
pacts.
♦ Repair, modify, and maintain stock ponds as wildlife watering sources
and habitat for aquatic and semi aquatic organisms (See WR-3).
Policy WM-3 Protect animal populations against the impact of human ac-
tions. (See HC-2: Measure 5)
♦ Discourage human intrusion into sensitive wildlife habitats by appro-
priate placement of facilities and trails.
♦ Identify and eliminate barriers (e.g. remove unnecessary fences, old
barb wire, and other barriers) and provide safe crossings (e.g. protect
Examples of wildlife using
human-made structures on
District lands include the Red
barn at La Honda Creek
Open Space Preserve which
is used by both the
Townsend's big-eared bat
(Plecotus townsendii) and
Pallid bat (Antrozous
pallidus).
Wildlife movement and safe
passage is affected at a
regional level by large-scale
transportation needs and
development including
housing, roadways, and
commercial development.
The District works with
Preserve neighbors,
municipalities, counties, and
regional planning
organizations to improve
new development projects
through the use of wildlife
friendly fencing, clustering
new development away from
sensitive areas, and
providing refuge areas for
wildlife.
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WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT
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established wildlife crossings and use wildlife friendly fencing) to en-
hance wildlife movement on a regional basis. (See HC-3, HC-4, and
GM-2: Measure 1)
♦ Consult with responsible wildlife agencies to conserve special status
species or to control problem wildlife when human life, property, or
other significant natural resources are threatened.
♦ Reduce conflicts between wildlife and humans through notification and
education, control of human access and, as a last resort, control of
wildlife presence or movement.
♦ Prohibit hunting or trapping in District preserves except as a manage-
ment tool or for scientific or educational purposes.
♦ Fishing is allowed only in areas declared by the District to be permitted
fishing areas, where state laws regulate the taking of game fish.
♦ Review and update criteria for designating temporary (e.g., day-use)
access areas for domestic animals into District preserves. Incorporate
the criteria into District regulations.
Policy WM-4 Protect and enhance the habitats and populations of special
status animal species.
♦ Conduct surveys of special status animals in affected areas before
initiating significant development or any substantial increase in use.
Give priority to protection of special status species.
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WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT
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ATTACHMENT 1
18
IV. INTEGRATED PEST
MANAGEMENT
BACKGROUND
Integrated Pest Management
Integrated pest management (IPM) is a process for efficiently managing
pests while protecting human health and environmental quality. IPM is a
long-term, science-based, decision-making system that uses a specific
methodology to manage damage from target pests. IPM requires monitor-
ing site conditions before, during, and after treatment to determine if objec-
tives are being met and if methods need to be revised. IPM requires that
non-chemical methods be considered in addition to chemical methods (i.e.,
pesticides, herbicides, insecticides). If chemical methods are necessary to
meet a pest control objective, the potential for harm to the public and work-
ers are carefully considered, as are effects on the environment and non-
target organisms, and then the least toxic and most effective, efficient, and
target-specific method is chosen.
The Problem with Invasive Species
Invasive species are animal or plant species that invade and dominate
sufficiently large areas causing a reduction in biodiversity. They prolifer-
ate in the absence of natural control and interfere with the natural pro-
cesses that would otherwise occur on wildlands. Once established, inva-
sive species can become difficult to manage and they can eliminate native
species or otherwise alter the ecosystem. This chapter addresses the
management of invasive species in order to protect the native species and
natural processes of the preserves.
Invasive species can alter
ecosystem processes by
changing biotic ecosystem
characteristics (such as plant
community composition,
structure, and interactions;
trophic relationships; and
genetic integrity) and abiotic
characteristics and
processes (such as fire
regimes, erosion,
sedimentation, hydrological
regimes, nutrient and mineral
conditions, and light
availability).
Pesticide is a broad term that
includes any material
(natural, organic, or
synthetic) used to control or
prevent pests including
herbicides (weed or plant
killers), insecticides (insect
killers), and rodenticides
(rodent killers) as a few
examples.
ATTACHMENT 1
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INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT
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Invasive Plants
Invasive plants have greatly altered many of California's natural plant
communities. Because they originated elsewhere, many invasive plants
are not susceptible to predation or diseases of this region. They are ex-
tremely adaptable and can thrive in a wide range of conditions. They can
grow quickly, reproduce early, produce many long-lasting seeds, and tol-
erate disturbance. They reduce native biodiversity by gradually crowding
out or competing with native plants for water and sun, and by reducing or
modifying wildlife habitat.
Invasive Animals
Ranking second to loss of habitat resulting from human intrusion, invasive
animals pose another threat to native wildlife. Escaped domestic animals
and other non-native wildlife species can thrive in the favorable climate of
the San Francisco peninsula. Once established in a preserve, they com-
pete for valuable resources and disturb the sensitive balance of natural
food webs. Bullfrogs and wild pigs are examples of invasive introduced
animals found in District preserves that physically displace or predate
upon native plants and wildlife.
Programs to manage pests require long-term commitment. With many in-
vasive plant and animal species, short-term lapses in management activity
may negate years of expensive control programs.
Wild (feral) pigs are an
example of an invasive
wildlife species with obvious
impact on District lands.
They have been widespread
in the central coast of
California since about 1970,
reproduce rapidly, dig up
meadows and wetlands, and
carry diseases that can
affect people and livestock.
They eat acorns, bulbs, and
soil animals, and are difficult
to control. Feral pigs were
abundant in the South
Skyline region in the 1990s.
The District has been
trapping feral pigs since
2000 and has substantially
reduced their population and
damage from their rooting.
ATTACHMENT 1
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INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT
20
INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT
GOALS, POLICIES, AND
IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES
Goal IPM- Control pests by consistent implementation of IPM
principles to protect and restore the natural envi-
ronment and provide for human safety and enjoy-
ment while visiting and working on District lands.
Policy IPM-1 Develop specific pest management strategies and priori-
ties that address each of the five work categories.
♦ Manage pests in buildings to support existing uses, while also pro-
tecting human health and surrounding natural resources.
♦ Manage pests and potential human interactions in recreational fa-
cilities to minimize conflict, ensure visitor safety and enjoyment,
and protect the surrounding natural resources.
♦ Manage pests in fuel management areas to reduce risk to human
life and property, while also protecting natural resources.
♦ Manage pests in rangelands and on agricultural properties to sup-
port existing uses, while also protecting human health and sur-
rounding natural resources.
♦ Manage invasive species in natural areas and set priorities for
their control based on the potential risk to sensitive native species
and loss of native biodiversity.
Policy IPM-2 Take appropriate actions to prevent the introduction of new
pest species to District preserves, especially new invasive
plants in natural areas, rangelands, and agricultural proper-
ties.
Best management practices
for preventing the
introduction of invasive
species include cleaning
equipment before leaving a
weedy site, and using seed,
plant, forage, fill, erosion-
control and other materials
that are free of weed seeds.
The California Invasive Plant
Council maintains an
Invasive Plant Inventory that
rates the threat of non-native
plant species by evaluating
their ecological impacts,
invasive potential and
ecological distribution. Along
with local knowledge, the
District uses this list to
evaluate the invasive risk of
existing and new non-native
plants found on District
preserves.
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INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT
21
Policy IPM-3 Manage pests using the procedures outlined in the following
eight implementation measures.
♦ Develop and implement tolerance levels for pests within each
of the Work Categories to determine when to undertake pest
control.
♦ Identify the pest, determine its life cycle and disruptive poten-
tial, and identify relevant site conditions prior to implementing
a pest control activity. Review pest control objectives for con-
sistency with other site goals and establish tolerance levels
that must be exceeded before pest control is undertaken.
♦ Choose site-specific strategies and times of treatment that
provide the best combination of protecting preserve re-
sources, human health, and non-target organisms and that
are efficient and cost effective in controlling the target pest.
Whenever feasible, direct the control method narrowly at vul-
nerable points in the target organism’s life cycle to avoid broad
impacts.
♦ Monitor results and modify control methods over time as site
conditions and treatment techniques change and as needed
to obtain an effective level of control.
♦ Use the least harmful method(s) to control identified pests.
Where the use of pesticides is necessary, apply according to
the label using all safety precautions and take all measures
needed to protect the environment, the health and safety of
visitors, employees, neighbors, and the surrounding natural
areas including water and soil resources.
♦ Plan for repeat treatments as indicated by the pest’s regener-
ative capabilities.
♦ Coordinate and cooperate with adjacent landowners, neigh-
bors, and other responsible agencies to control pests and limit
secondary effects.
♦ If eradication of a pest from a distinct location is not feasible,
apply measures to achieve containment, sustained control,
slow down a pest’s rate of spread, or minimize pest damage.
Policy IPM-4 Monitor pest occurrences and results of control actions and
use adaptive management to improve results.
Prior to the approval of the
use of any new biological
control agent, the US and
California Departments of
Agriculture conduct years of
laboratory and field studies
to assess the candidate’s
host specificity and its
potential impact on target
and nontarget species and
environmental safety.
The District coordinates with
the San Mateo County and
Santa Clara County Weed
Management Areas, the
California Invasive Plant
Council, the California
Department of Fish and
Game, the California
Department of Food and
Agriculture, County
Agricultural Departments,
and the Cooperative
Extension Service to stay
informed on invasive plants
and animals, IPM
techniques, and pesticide
regulations.
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INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT
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Policy IPM-5 Develop and implement an IPM Guidance Manual to stand-
ardize pest management and IPM procedures across all
District Lands.
ATTACHMENT 1
23
V. WATER RESOURCES
BACKGROUND
Water is essential to life on earth and is also one of the most important
forces shaping habitats and biodiversity. District open space lands con-
tain a variety of water resources that include such diverse habitats as
freshwater wetlands (including ponds and seasonal wetlands) and water-
courses, salt water tidal wetlands within San Francisco Bay, and ground-
water resources such as springs, seeps, and underground aquifers. These
water resources have natural, scenic, recreational, scientific, and educa-
tional values. In general, this policy will discuss waters (sag ponds, artifi-
cial impoundments, lakes, and aquifers), watercourses (such as streams
and creeks), and wetlands. These terms are discussed further below.
“Waters” is a term that is broadly used to describe all aquatic systems.
This policy defines “waters” as areas of standing water, both seasonal and
permanent, such as lakes and ponds, as well as underground aquifers.
“Watercourse” is a generic term used to define any land feature that con-
veys concentrated water flow, regardless of whether the water flow is
ephemeral, intermittent, or perennial. “Wetlands” are distinguished by the
presence of water, either at the surface or within the root zone. Wetlands
have unique soil conditions that differ from adjacent uplands and support
vegetation adapted to wet conditions. Wetlands provide critical ecological
functions and habitat for a variety of fish, wildlife, and plant species
Wetlands are lands that are transitional between terrestrial and aquatic
systems. The water table is usually at or near the surface, or land is cov-
ered by shallow water. Some functions of wetlands include the following:
provide habitat for fish and aquatic wildlife, offer foraging habitat or water
for terrestrial wildlife and birds, absorb flood waters, reduce erosion, re-
charge aquifers, cleanse pollutants, provide aesthetic values, support
unique plant associations, and provide habitat for many rare species of
plants and wildlife. In California, wetlands of all types have been greatly
reduced in area from their historic extent and are being rapidly lost or ad-
versely impacted.
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WATER RESOURCES
24
Watersheds Within the District
District Preserves are located within 22 major watersheds extending from
the Pacific Ocean in San Mateo County to the baylands in San Mateo and
Santa Clara Counties. Watersheds are land or “basins” within which all
precipitation within a given watershed drains to a single body of water,
often a creek or stream. Many of the District’s lands are located within the
headwaters or uppermost sections of these watersheds.
Most preserve watersheds contain steep ridges and deep canyons typical
of the Santa Cruz Mountains. Rainfall occurs mostly between November
and April with seasonal rainfall totals varying greatly within the District. The
greatest rainfall quantities occur along the west facing slopes near the
summit of the mountain range where totals can reach 40 to 50 inches per
year, however, averages around 20 to 30 inches per year are more typical.
In the Santa Cruz Mountains, fog accounts for approximately 10-20 inches
of this precipitation, much of which is delivered in the dry summer months.
Many smaller creeks and streams are intermittent, reflecting this seasonal
distribution of rainfall. Winter flows are higher, especially during and im-
mediately following storms.
The Influence of Water Movement
Water flows in predictable patterns on the surface, through rocks beneath
the soil, and in underground water tables. Plants and animals are adapted
to specific movement patterns of water, sediment, and nutrients occurring
in their area. A significant change in any of these factors may reduce or
eliminate original species in favor of those better able to survive in the new
conditions. Maintaining and restoring hydrologic patterns is important in
maintaining healthy ecosystems.
The condition of soil and vegetation influences the rate at which water
moves as well as its quality and quantity. Leaf litter acts as mulch that
helps absorb and conserve rainwater. Maintaining a continuous cover of
live and decomposing vegetation residue is the most successful long- term
approach to controlling erosion and maintaining water quality and quan-
tity.
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WATER RESOURCES
25
Water Management Within The District
As rain falls on District Preserves, it is captured and transported through
the ecosystem. These processes create high-quality water for the environ-
ment and people. District Preserves also support groundwater recharge
that helps sustain summer and fall water availability and mitigate the im-
pact of drought.
The District is also dependent on water to fulfill its mission. District field
offices require water for employees, equipment maintenance, dust control,
and fire suppression. The District manages residential properties that are
often located in areas without municipal supplies, thus relying on locally,
naturally occurring water sources. Grazing operations that manage grass-
lands for multiple benefits require water in remote areas. Irrigation sup-
ports farming that provides local food.
The District manages ponds that support aquatic and terrestrial wildlife. In
the semi-arid region of the Santa Cruz Mountains, restoration of stream
and aquatic ecosystems is a priority for managing ecosystems.
The District relies on a variety of water sources. Springs are captured and
developed to provide water to people and livestock with the goal of allow-
ing wildlife access to the spring water. Wells capture deeper groundwater
sources and require energy to pump the water to the surface. Streamflow
can be captured by small impoundments or pumps and diverted to the
place it is needed. These waters are often stored to provide water during
the dry seasons in tanks or ponds
Water Resource Issues
Wetlands and watercourses on the District’s open space lands provide
valuable and increasingly scarce habitat for a variety of native plant and
animal species as well as many special status species. Where aquatic
habitat is not directly present on District lands, runoff from District lands
supports habitats downstream, a connection that should be recognized
and preserved. Issues associated with the management of water re-
sources and water quality include erosion and sedimentation, excessive
diversion of water for consumptive use, severe erosion following wildland
fires, agricultural runoff, pesticides and fertilizers, septic system
Groundwater is water that is
held underground in soil or
pores and crevices in
bedrock
Surface water is found in
streams, rivers, ponds, and
lakes.
Springs are a type of
groundwater that surfaces at
a point on the land.
Consumptive use is the
amount of water that is used
by people, livestock, or crops
that is unavailable to the
environment after use.
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WATER RESOURCES
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wastewater disposal, stormwater runoff, flooding, drought, climate
change, associated sea level rise, and chemical contamination from
neighboring areas or from former use of preserve lands.
WATER RESOURCES GOALS, POLICIES,
AND IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES
Goal WR- Protect and restore natural water courses, wet-
lands and hydrologic processes
Policy WR-1 Protect surface and ground water from contamination.
♦ Inventory existing facilities and uses that affect watercourses, riparian
areas, and wetlands, and prepare plans for protection or restoration,
as appropriate.
♦ Research and pursue cleanup of likely sources of pollution, such as
buried fuel tanks, improperly dumped or stored material, and faulty
waste or drainage systems.
♦ Utilize self-contained sanitary facilities or place rest rooms where they
cannot contaminate water sources.
♦ Control activities having a high potential for pollution.
♦ Properly decommission abandoned septic systems and avoid water
quality impacts when constructing new septic systems. Manage active
and abandoned wells to avoid groundwater contamination
♦ Regulate the type and intensity of human activity on District lands to
protect water quality.
♦ Review and comment on offsite land use and water management pro-
jects and policies that affect District water resources. Recommend and
support measures to maintain natural water quality, channel flow, and
sedimentation rates on District lands.
Contamination is man-made
waste that has polluted the
environment making it unfit
or unsafe. Examples on
District lands include
deteriorated septic systems,
underground storage tanks,
leaking transformers, and
trash and debris.
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Policy WR-2 Restore, maintain or enhance water quality on District
lands.
♦ Manage vegetation to improve watershed productivity and water qual-
ity.
♦ Manage agricultural leases and easements to maximize the protection
and enhancement of riparian areas and water quality.
♦ Monitor sediment delivery and transport on District preserves located
within watersheds identified as impaired by sediment or supportive of
special status animals requiring aquatic habitat.
♦ Coordinate with agencies and organizations to establish volunteer-
based monitoring programs. Participate in regional watershed man-
agement activities.
Policy WR-3 Restore Hydrologic Processes.
♦ Incorporate best management practices (BMPs) and develop storm-
water pollution prevention plans (SWPPP) when required at staging
areas.
♦ Inventory and assess roads and trails on District lands to identify sig-
nificant erosion and sediment sources. Prioritize maintenance and
road/trail management based on most severe erosion and sediment
delivery sites.
♦ Manage human activities to control erosion--for example, abandon
and where feasible restore to a natural condition poorly designed or
sited roads to a natural condition, close certain trails to bicycle and
equestrian use during the wet season, re-route existing trails to mini-
mize erosion and sediment delivery.
♦ Restore hydrologic processes altered by past land uses by ‘slowing
water, spreading it, and sinking it’ through installing erosion control
materials and structures, removing culverts and drainage diversions
where appropriate, and using improved drainage structures that mini-
mize alteration of hydrology.
♦ Minimize soil disturbance during all construction projects.
♦ Locate new trails to minimize potential water pollution and stream
bank erosion and sediment delivery.
Restoration and
enhancement are terms that
are sometimes used
interchangeably when
discussing habitat
improvement projects.
Restoration refers to the
process of returning land that
has been degraded and
disturbed into functional
habitat. Enhancement refers
to the process of altering a
habitat to provide specific
ecosystem functions that
may be missing; typically to
provide habitat for
endangered species.
Many of the District’s
properties contain legacy
logging and ranching roads
that were not designed or
constructed for year-round
use. These road systems
can greatly alter the flow of
water across the land,
causing erosion and
sediment problems due to
concentrated runoff from
winter rains.
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♦ Construct trails, roads, staging areas, and buildings so that streams
are not permanently diverted nor interrupted, and runoff is not concen-
trated. Minimize creation of impermeable surfaces.
♦ Identify and mitigate significant impacts of altered water flow on plants
and animals, including aquatic organisms.
Policy WR-4 Manage Water Consumption to Balance Operational and
Environmental Needs.
♦ Phase in installation of water meters or other measures to monitor an-
nual consumptive water use.
♦ Develop and regularly update BMPs for efficient water use in offices,
field operations, residences, grazing, and farming.
♦ Evaluate and consider the environmental and operational benefits and
tradeoffs of each water source for new projects.
♦ Evaluate and consider the construction and operational costs of each
water source.
♦ Balance operational and consumptive use needs with the goal of
maintaining healthy ecological functions.
♦ Provide technical assistance to lessees of District lands and owners
of lands on which the District has an agricultural easement to secure
water rights for the continuation or establishment of viable agriculture
consistent with the protection of sensitive habitats (see Coastal Ser-
vice Plan PA.2).
Policy WR-5 Determine and maintain District water rights and utilization.
♦ Identify existing uses of surface water on newly acquired open space
lands, as part of the purchase process. Protect appropriative and ri-
parian water rights for appropriate and beneficial existing or possible
future uses.
♦ Secure water rights for the continuation or establishment of viable ag-
riculture and grazing on District land consistent with protection of sen-
sitive habitats.
Two types of surface water
use are recognized under
California law: appropriative
rights and riparian rights.
Appropriative rights require a
permit from the State Water
Resources Control Board,
which grants the right to use
water on parcels not
adjacent to the watercourse
or to store water.
Riparian rights are the rights
of any owner of a parcel
immediately adjacent to a
watercourse to use water.
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Policy WR-6 Preserve and enhance fisheries habitats. (See WM poli-
cies).
♦ Inventory and assess stream reaches accessible to anadromous fish
to identify impediments to fish passage and opportunities for habitat
enhancement.
♦ Remove artificial barriers to fish passage where removal will enhance
spawning and rearing habitats.
♦ Enhance spawning and rearing habitats for native fisheries through
restoration. Prioritize restoration and enhancement of areas providing
habitat to sensitive species.
♦ Monitor sensitive fish species populations in District waters.
♦ Monitor water quality and condition of high priority aquatic habitats as-
sociated with District projects containing spawning, breeding, rearing
habitat for special status fish, reptile, amphibian, or other aquatic spe-
cies.
♦ Evaluate and consider the environmental benefits and construc-
tion/operational costs of off-stream storage facilities to minimize
stream diversion and/or allow for the release of water into natural wa-
terways during low flow seasons and implement accordingly.
♦ Avoid new direct stream diversion for consumptive uses where eco-
nomically feasible alternative water sources exist, or the diversion
captures the majority of flows, or the aquatic habitat would be sub-
stantially impaired. Explore alternate sources for existing in stream di-
versions.
Policy WR-7 Preserve and enhance ponds and other wetland habitats.
(See VM-1 and WM policies).
♦ Maintain ponds or other water bodies as wildlife watering sources as
appropriate (See WM-2).
♦ Inventory and assess ponds and wetlands to identify opportunities for
habitat maintenance and enhancement.
♦ Monitor sensitive reptile, amphibian, and aquatic organism popula-
tions dependent on District wetlands.
Few of the ponds in the
Santa Cruz Mountains are
naturally occurring features.
The majority of ponds were
created as artificial
impoundments that require
ongoing management to
maintain. Regardless of their
origin, ponds provide wildlife
access to a scarce resource
(water) and greatly increase
the diversity of species
inhabiting the District’s lands.
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WATER RESOURCES
30
♦ Preserve ponds through maintenance of artificial impoundment struc-
tures where ponds provide habitat for sensitive and other wildlife spe-
cies.
Policy WR-8 Develop seasonal and multi-year drought management strat-
egies for District lands.
♦ Evaluate and develop where appropriate wells and springs to create
resilient water supplies.
♦ Identify and curtail diversions that strain naturally limited water
sources, especially those that significantly impact special status spe-
cies.
♦ Evaluate and implement where appropriate additional water storage
infrastructure to store water when it is naturally abundant for later use
during dry seasons.
♦ Evaluate and alter as appropriate water-intensive land management
practices during drought conditions to reduce overall District-wide wa-
ter consumption.
ATTACHMENT 1
31
VI. GEOLOGY AND SOILS
BACKGROUND
District lands include a diverse set of dynamic geological resources char-
acterized by steep slopes, earthquake faults, landslides, unstable and
erosive soils, and attractive but fragile rock formations. Open space is an
appropriate designation for such areas.
Soil – A Valuable and Fragile Resource
Soil is the essential surface layer that predominates in the District Pre-
serves. Soil provides the rooting medium for plants and supplies most of
the nutrients they require, whether native or cultivated. As plant commu-
nities mature, plant roots, surface debris, and animal remains break down
and are incorporated into the soil. Over time, this organic material builds
up soil structure and fertility. If depleted or lost, soil takes a long time to
regenerate- often longer than a single human generation. This surface
layer of the land is readily accessible and easy to disturb and therefore
requires the most protection by land managers.
Factors Contributing to Soil Loss
In some areas, District soil erosion has been accelerated by loss of plant
cover, disruption of natural drainage patterns, landslide activity and/or
some types of recreational uses. Some of these are naturally occurring
causes, some are natural causes accelerated by human activity. By far the
largest amount of soil erosion on District lands is human-caused. Poor
placement of roads or trails, shortcutting of trails, poor design, construction
or placement of drainage systems, excessive grazing pressure or past cul-
tivation practices, and development of facilities can accelerate natural ero-
sion. These activities can destroy protective plant and mulch cover, ex-
posing soil to wind and water or diverting water from natural drainages.
Recovery of soils from such disturbances is slow. Monitoring, preventing,
and, where necessary, remedying human-caused erosion are all important
parts of the District's resource management responsibilities.
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RESOURCE MANAGEMENT POLICIES
GEOLOGY AND SOILS
32
GEOLOGY AND SOILS GOALS, POLICIES,
AND IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES
Goal GS- Avoid or minimize soil loss and prevent or remedi-
ate contamination related to human land use, and
protect unique or exceptional geologic features
Policy GS-1 Locate and construct facilities to avoid high-risk areas sub-
ject to landslides, liquefaction, faulting, flooding and erosion.
♦ Minimize construction of major improvements (examples: buildings,
roads, pipelines, and septic tanks) in landslide-prone areas, active
fault zones, flood zones, and highly erodible areas.
♦ Design trails with respect to natural topography to maintain or restore
natural drainage patterns as much as possible. Design roads, trails
and facilities to minimize disturbance to vegetation and soil.
♦ Review available geohazard data for proposed facilities and infrastruc-
ture, where geologic hazards may be present.
Policy GS-2 Minimize unnatural soil erosion and sedimentation. (See
VM-3: Measure 3)
♦ Monitor soil erosion and slope failure and identify areas where these
processes are accelerated and causing resource damage. Utilize ex-
isting information (soil maps, geologic reports etc.) to avoid construc-
tion in problem areas and to identify areas with conditions that may
impact existing infrastructure.
♦ Reduce human-caused erosion by identifying, limiting of eliminating
the causative activity, properly locating or relocating facilities, in-
stalling drainage or erosion control measures, or revegetating the
area. Construct roads and trails to maintain natural drainage patterns.
♦ Reconstruct or stabilize and abandon roads and trails that display or
have the potential for ongoing erosion problems.
♦ Limit agricultural activities, facility development, and trail construction
in riparian and other wetland areas to protect them from disturbance.
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♦ Minimize soil disturbance associated with construction and mainte-
nance operations.
♦ Seed to rehabilitate disturbed ground and lessen erosion. Time seed-
ing projects to ensure adequate soil moisture for seed germination.
Utilize mulch or other appropriate groundcover to reduce erosion
where sediment can be delivered to a watercourse or wetland.
♦ Utilize native plants when possible for projects requiring revegetation
for long-term erosion control. Non-native sterile grass seed may be
used to quickly establish ground cover and reduce erosion. In areas
of active livestock grazing, incorporation of non-invasive pasture
grasses may be utilized.
♦ Prevent, to the extent possible, the physical removal of naturally oc-
curring soil.
Policy GS-3 Protect unique or exceptional geologic features from human
damage.
♦ Identify locations and document the condition of unique or exceptional
geologic features (example: tafoni sandstone formations, serpentine
outcrops, sag ponds).
♦ Monitor such features to determine if action is needed to prevent or
stop damage.
♦ Control access to features requiring protection by informing visitors,
placing signs and barriers, and enforcing restrictions.
♦ Develop security protocols to limit availability and distribution of geo-
graphic information for geology and soil resources to protect sites from
accidental destruction, looting, and vandalism.
Policy GS-4 Prevent or remediate contaminated soils
♦ Prevent the release of hazardous materials into the environment as-
sociated with District operations by implementing and following Best
Management Practices (BMPs) for spill prevention.
♦ Investigate areas where soil contamination may have occurred due to
previous land use including: disposal sites, mining areas, or leaks from
storage tanks.
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♦ Remediate areas where contaminants pose a threat to human and
ecological health through implementation of recommended treatment
options including biodegradation, safe removal of contaminated soils,
capping of soils, or other methods as recommended by a remediation
professional.
♦ Adhere to requirements outlined in soil management plans approved
for the preserves.
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VII. SCENIC AND AESTHETIC
RESOURCES
BACKGROUND
The District recognizes the protection of scenic values as one of the pri-
mary benefits of open space. The scenic and aesthetic resources of
District lands provide physical and psychological relief from the stresses
and uniformity of urban life. They also contribute to our "sense of place" -
our appreciation of the qualities that set this area apart from others and
make it feel like home.
District preserves include a variety of natural settings and landscapes that
form magnificent scenic backdrops to the urbanized peninsula. Local res-
idents and visitors particularly appreciate the interplay of color, pattern,
form, and light on the coastal mountains, where rugged topography, hot
sun, wind, and fog combine to create dramatic and appealing contrasts in
vegetation.
In some cases, preserving a significant scenic or historic landscape may
involve managing it to actually prevent natural succession, for example,
without intervention; a shallow pond may gradually fill in and become a
meadow or open grassland. Active management through vegetation
maintenance or pond deepening not only promotes the scenic and aes-
thetic value of a wetland setting, but may also be more beneficial to wild-
life. However in most instances, restoring or mimicking natural processes
can help maintain the appealing visual and biological diversity of native
communities.
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SCENIC AND AESTHETIC RESOURCES
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SCENIC AND AESTHETIC RESOURCES
GOAL, POLICIES, AND IMPLEMENTATION
MEASURES
Goal SA- Preserve lands with natural appearance, diversity,
and minimal evidence of human impacts
Policy SA-1 Minimize evidence of human impacts within preserves.
♦ Clarify and document appropriate standards for designing and locating
trails, parking areas, and buildings.
♦ Locate trails to minimize their visibility from a distance.
♦ Where feasible, locate telecommunication towers, power lines, water
towers, firebreaks, and other infrastructure along margins of roads,
next to existing structures or where vegetation and terrain help ease
undesirable visual and environmental impacts. Install utility lines un-
derground, if practical.
♦ Cluster new facilities near existing development, where possible.
♦ Design facilities such as structures, bridges, fencing, benches, and
barriers to harmonize with natural landscape features, colors, and ma-
terials.
♦ Cluster, reduce, and place signs to lessen their visual impact.
♦ Rehabilitate areas degraded by human use by restricting access or
type(s) of use, rerouting trails and roads, removing unsightly hu-
man-made features and non-native plants, restoring natural contours,
and revegetating with native plants.
Policy SA-2 Maintain significant landscapes or features that were for-
merly maintained by natural processes.
♦ Control encroaching vegetation where it adversely affects significant
scenic, historic or habitat resources (See Vegetation Management,
Cultural Resources, and Integrated Pest Management policies).
District development consists
of facilities such as trails,
restrooms, parking lots,
fencing, offices, and
residences. District facilities
are designed to blend into
the natural surroundings and
are located within or
adjacent to previously
disturbed areas such as
placing parking lots along
existing roadways, or
improving, remodeling, or
placing new structures in
previously developed areas.
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♦ Control vegetation to create or maintain important scenic viewpoints
and vistas (See Vegetation Management and Integrated Pest Man-
agement policies).
♦ Require District tenants to maintain landscapes and improvements to
acceptable visual standards that do not detract from a visitor's experi-
ence or adversely impact wildlife.
Policy SA-3 Minimize unnatural noise within preserves
♦ Prevent or reduce unnatural sounds that adversely impact preserves
resources or a visitors' enjoyment of them.
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VIII. CULTURAL RESOURCE
MANAGEMENT
BACKGROUND
Cultural Resources at the District
The San Francisco Peninsula has had a rich and diverse history, including
settlement by Native American groups; the Spanish (1776-1821) and
Mexican Republican (1821-1848) colonization of the region; the annexa-
tion of California by the United States in 1848; and subsequent industrial,
agricultural, and residential development. There are remains from each of
these periods on District lands, including Native American village sites and
bedrock mortars, barns and other ranching features, orchards, wineries,
historic homes, sawmills, mines, historic roads and trails, and outdoor
recreational sites. As time passes, more recent periods of California’s his-
tory become historically significant. As such, some 20th century sites
such as World War II and Cold War military sites are now considered his-
torically significant resources throughout California. Collectively, these
sites, structures, features, and artifacts comprise the cultural resources
of the District.
The District was founded to preserve a regional greenbelt of open space
land on the San Francisco Peninsula from the rapid suburban develop-
ment that accelerated in the post-World War II boom in the Bay Area. Alt-
hough the District’s mission is to protect the greenbelt for open space val-
ues, natural resource protection, and ecologically sensitive recreation,
this mission compliments cultural resource preservation goals. The devel-
opment pressures from which the District protects open space land also
threaten its associated historic and prehistoric structures, cultural land-
scapes, and archaeological sites. The preservation of open space land
in the peninsula’s greenbelt provides the opportunity for the District to pro-
tect and interpret the rural history of the Santa Cruz Mountains and San
Francisco Bay for the benefit of present visitors and future generations.
Native American groups,
such as the Ohlone, have
lived on the San Francisco
Peninsula for thousands of
years. Bedrock mortars and
other artifacts from their
habitation and use of the
landscape can be seen on
District lands today.
During the Spanish Colonial
and Mexican Republican
periods, the San Francisco
peninsula was divided into
large ranching tracts. District
preserves, including Rancho
San Antonio, the Rancho de
Guadalupe area of Sierra
Azul, and La Honda Creek
(formerly Rancho San
Gregorio), were part of these
large land grants.
In the second half of the 19th
century, District forests were
used for timber harvesting,
residences, and outdoor
recreation. Grasslands were
developed for ranching and
agriculture, including
vineyards and orchards.
Historic roads, such as Old
Page Mill Road, connected
communities and industries
in the growing region.
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CULTURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
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Cultural resources are irreplaceable resources that face substantial
threats such as disturbance from construction and maintenance activities,
theft, vandalism, and deterioration over time. When the District acquires
land with historic structures, the structures often have suffered years of
neglect and are at risk of collapse. In these cases, it can be very expen-
sive to rehabilitate and maintain these structures, many of which have
already lost significant resource integrity. It is sometimes necessary to
remove dilapidated historic structures due to public safety concerns and
the prohibitive expense of historical rehabilitation. The District has
adopted “Policies Regarding Improvements on District Lands” to provide
a public process used to assess and determine whether District structures
and improvements are cultural resources, and how they can most appro-
priately be managed. The District has successfully completed a number
of important historic preservation projects, often with assistance from
granting agencies and/or public/private partnerships. Cultivating relation-
ships with historic preservation groups, research organizations, and
knowledgeable local residents, including Native American groups, will al-
low the District to pursue new opportunities to preserve cultural resources
and protect remnants of the peninsula’s heritage for present and future
Bay Area residents. The District serves communities of diverse ethnic her-
itage, who seek a wide variety of experiences in District preserves. To the
extent that these practices can be accommodated with minimal impact to
the natural and cultural resources, they should be encouraged and accom-
modated wherever feasible.
Regulatory Context
There are a number of state and federal laws pertaining to cultural re-
sources to which the District must adhere in its operations. The California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) (Guideline 15064.5, Public Resources
Code 21038.2) states that a substantial adverse change to the significance
of a historical resource or a unique archaeological resource must be
treated as a significant effect on the environment in a project’s environ-
mental review. Public Resources Code 5097.9-5097.994 mandates pro-
tocols for protecting Native American graves and human remains, and pro-
hibits unauthorized excavation, destruction, or vandalism to Native Amer-
ican archaeological sites on public land.
Examples of completed
historic preservation projects
on District lands include the
Woodhills Home at Fremont
Older, Picchetti Winery,
Grant Cabin at Deer Hollow
Farm, and the Red Barn at
La Honda Creek.
CEQA defines a historical
resource as potentially
significant if it is at least 50
years old and is determined
to be eligible for listing on the
California Register of Historic
Resources. A unique
archaeological site is defined
as a site that is at least 100
years old and has the
potential to provide useful
information about the past.
Therefore, as time passes,
t
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Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 requires con-
sideration of impacts to historic resources on federal lands or projects re-
quiring federal permits. Likewise, any project that requires review under
the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 must consider impacts to
cultural resources. The Native American Graves Protection and Repatri-
ation Act of 1990 (NAGPRA) mandates the protection of Native American
burial sites on federal lands and the repatriation of human remains and
funerary objects to descendent Native American groups. Under NAGPRA,
institutions with collections of Native American remains and funerary items
must create an inventory and notify lineal descendents as part of the re-
patriation process.
In compliance with the statutes listed above, the District has included pro-
tocols for unexpected discoveries of archaeological sites and human re-
mains as mitigation measures in District projects. An example of a District
project specifically identifying protocols for cultural resource protection is
the Service Plan and accompanying Environmental Impact Report for ex-
pansion of the District’s boundaries to include coastal San Mateo County
completed in 2003. The Service Plan recognized the unique value of cul-
tural resources in the San Mateo County coastal area and established Cul-
tural Resource Policies to preserve cultural resources in the Coastal An-
nexation Area. The Policies and Implementation Measures established in
this Cultural RMPs are consistent with the Cultural Resource Policies in
the Service Plan.
The Cultural RMPs is intended to be consistent with and to supplement
the District’s “Policies Regarding Improvements on District Lands.” The
purpose of this policy is to formalize and enhance the District’s cultural
resource management practices for the long-term stewardship of the Dis-
trict’s significant historical and archaeological sites.
Cultural resources are not
restricted to historic
structures. Many of the
landscapes on District
preserves are artifacts of
historic and prehistoric
human activity. These
include agricultural
landscapes, such as the
orchards at Stevens Canyon
Ranch; the remnants of
logging in the District’s
redwood forests; ranching
landscapes; and the formal
estates of August Schilling in
Thornewood and, Harry
Tevis in Bear Creek
Redwoods and Fremont and
Cora Older at Fremont
Older.
ATTACHMENT 1
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RESOURCE MANAGEMENT POLICIES
CULTURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
42
CULTURAL RESOURCE GOALS,
POLICIES, AND IMPLEMENTATION
MEASURES
Goal CR- Identify, protect, preserve, and interpret cultural re-
sources for the benefit of present and future gen-
erations.
Policy CR-1 Maintain an inventory of cultural resources on District pre-
serves.
♦ Inventory and assess cultural resources throughout the District, in-
cluding prehistoric and historic archaeological sites, structures, and
cultural landscape features. The Cultural Resource Inventory
should include a Geographic Information Systems database; however,
access to this inventory must be restricted to District staff and qualified
professionals, to the extent allowed by law to protect sites from looting
and vandalism.
♦ Record cultural resources in the District’s Cultural Resource Inventory
when purchasing new property and perform research on previous
uses of the property. Examples of research activities include perform-
ing a records search with the Northwest Information Center and
consulting historic preservation organizations, previous residents, and
descendents to gather local historical information.
♦ Complete archaeological site records for known unrecorded sites on
District land and file reports with the Northwest Information Center.
Policy CR-2 Address cultural resources in the development of preserve
use and management plans.
♦ Consult the Cultural Resource Inventory when planning projects that
may have an impact on cultural resources in the project area.
♦ Conduct appropriate reconnaissance measures, such as research or
archaeological survey, early in the planning process for trail construc-
Archaeological sites include
prehistoric sites, such as
Native American villages and
other remnants, and historic
sites dating from after
European settlement. These
can include Spanish Colonial
/Mexican sites, and sites
dating from after the
annexation of California by
the United States.
To protect vulnerable ar-
chaeological resources, the
State Legislature has ex-
empted sensitive archaeo-
logical site information from
disclosure requirements in
the California Public Records
Act.
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tion, maintenance activities, or other projects that entail ground dis-
turbance in an area of known archaeological sensitivity. Monitor con-
struction activities when appropriate.
♦ Locate facilities, such as trails, staging areas, and new structures, to
avoid loss or degradation of historically or archaeologically significant
resources wherever possible. If not possible to avoid, minimize im-
pacts, for example by: capping site, recording important features
and/or artifacts, relocating structures, or data recovery excavation.
♦ Include stakeholder groups when developing plans for the manage-
ment of historically or archaeologically significant resources. Con-
sult with descendent communities such as Native American and other
ethnic groups when developing plans for the management of histori-
cally or archaeologically significant resources related to their heritage.
♦ Assess the significance, integrity, and feasibility of preservation of his-
toric structures when developing Preserve Use and Management
Plans or Master Plans. If a structure is determined to be eligible for
the California Register of Historic Resources, assess feasibility of pre-
serving the resource.
Policy CR-3 Protect cultural resources from disturbance to the maximum
extent feasible.
♦ Wherever possible and appropriate, preserve historical resources and
archaeological sites in situ.
♦ Prohibit looting, vandalism, and unauthorized removal of cultural re-
sources and associated artifacts from District preserves.
♦ Implement security measures such as protective fencing and patrol-
ling to reduce vulnerability of the resources due to vandalism and loot-
ing.
♦ Develop security protocols to limit availability and distribution of geo-
graphic information for cultural resources to protect sites from looting
and vandalism.
♦ Prohibit District sale, purchase, or commercial trade of individual ar-
chaeological artifacts.
Looting of archaeological
sites for commercial gain
poses a threat to sites
around the world. Codes of
archaeological ethics there-
fore discourage any activity
that commodifies artifacts
and encourages their com-
mercial trade.
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♦ Develop and follow guidelines for reporting, protecting and recording
archaeological sites and features in the event of unexpected discov-
ery.
♦ Provide District staff with basic training to identify and protect cultural
resources.
♦ Assess existing operations within areas of known archaeological sen-
sitivity to protect and preserve cultural resources.
♦ Require that all archaeological investigations or research activities
that have the potential to physically significantly impact archaeological
resources are carried out by qualified archaeologists, and that a tech-
nical report for each project is provided to the District following exca-
vation.
Policy CR-4 Preserve and maintain cultural resources wherever feasible.
♦ Actively pursue grant assistance from local, state, federal, and other
programs to supplement District funds to implement historic preserva-
tion projects for historically and archaeologically significant resources.
♦ Seek partnerships with private or non-profit groups to aid in the resto-
ration, management, and use of historic structures.
♦ Assess the condition, identify needed repairs, and prepare mainte-
nance plans for significant high priority historic structures as funds al-
low.
♦ Assess the eligibility of cultural resources for nomination on local reg-
isters, the California Register of Historic Resources, and the National
Register of Historic Places. Consider nomination to registers for which
a resource is determined eligible.
♦ Catalog artifacts associated with sites on District lands to prevent de-
terioration and to document the site and location where the artifacts
were recovered. Consider curating artifacts in danger of deterioration.
Maintain a cataloging system to preserve artifacts’ contextual infor-
mation and storage locations. Where appropriate, coordinate with
other agencies and organizations to assist in long-term curation of Dis-
trict collections.
♦ Develop and follow guidelines and procedures governing loans of ar-
tifacts to other agencies and organizations.
There are a number of po-
tential sources of grant fund-
ing for historic preservation
projects. In the past, the
District has received grants
from the Santa Clara County
Historical Heritage Commis-
sion and the California Herit-
age Fund. Listing resources
on local, state, or national
registers can increase oppor-
tunities for grant funding.
Provenience, or the contex-
tual information associated
with an artifact or collection,
is important for retaining its
research potential and rele-
vance for interested commu-
nities. A cataloging system
is a crucial tool for preserv-
ing this information and
keeping it linked to objects.
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Policy CR-5 Provide public access and educational programs to interpret
historical and archaeological resources. (See PI-1)
♦ Provide controlled public access to historical and archaeological sites
where appropriate, considering other public access resource con-
straints and resource protection.
♦ Allow appropriate uses of cultural resources by descendent communi-
ties.
♦ Seek input from descendent communities, such as Native American
and other ethnic groups, when planning public access and educational
programs that interpret cultural resources related to their heritage.
♦ When developing partnerships for the use and management of historic
structures, plan for public access to the structures where appropriate
while minimizing impact to the structures and respecting the needs of
building occupants.
♦ Provide interpretive materials such as signage or brochures for self-
guided hikes to inform visitors about the history of District lands and
the San Francisco Bay Area. Develop locations to display artifacts for
public benefit.
♦ Encourage, utilize, and support historical research by docents and vol-
unteers.
♦ Provide training opportunities for docents to aid them in the develop-
ment of docent-led tours of historic and archaeological sites and land-
scapes.
♦ Facilitate school field trips of historic and archaeological sites and
cultivate other opportunities to work with educational groups to inter-
pret cultural resources on District preserves.
♦ Support historical and archaeological research conducted by District-
approved, qualified cultural resource professionals on District lands.
Public interpretation and ac-
cess to non-sensitive infor-
mation about cultural re-
sources on District land is an
important part of their preser-
vation, conveying their im-
portance to the general pub-
lic. The District’s cultural re-
sources are a valuable public
asset.
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Policy CR-6 Preserve District institutional history.
♦ Preserve documents and artifacts important to the history of the Dis-
trict.
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IX. RESEARCH AND
COLLECTION OF INFORMATION
BACKGROUND
Achieving the District's resource management objectives requires sup-
port in the form of basic academic research and applied field studies. This
level of research is usually conducted by colleges and universities, by con-
sultants as part of environmental analysis for project proposals, or by en-
vironmental and wildlife organizations such as the California Native Plant
Society, the Nature Conservancy, or the Audubon Society. Although the
District may conduct or sponsor research directly, it will continue to depend
on and support outside research to expand its knowledge about the natu-
ral resources under its care, and to provide the basis for sound planning
and management decisions.
RESEARCH AND INFORMATION GOALS,
POLICIES, AND IMPLEMENTATION
MEASURES
Goal RC- Use and document scientific knowledge of pre-
serve resources and resource management tech-
niques as a basis for management decisions
Policy RC-1 Maintain resource information files for each preserve and re-
source subject.
♦ Systematically gather information and data from appropriate agencies,
universities, non-profit organizations, studies, and reports. Integrate
spatial data into the District’s GIS database.
♦ Maintain an electronic filing system to facilitate access of spatial data
and information by location and resource type.
♦ Facilitate the reporting of resource related observational data by field
staff and the public and its access by District staff.
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♦ Respond to public information requests and promote release of non
sensitive resource information to better distribute and share District
scientific knowledge.
♦ Recruit interns and volunteers to help organize and maintain resource
information files, in cooperation with the District's volunteer program.
Policy RC-2 Coordinate and cooperate with institutions, agencies, organ-
izations, and individuals conducting resource management
or research.
♦ Maintain a list of District related potential resource research projects.
Encourage research directed to specific sites, District-related issues,
or resource management practices.
♦ Administer the District’s Resource Management Grant Program to
fund projects that contribute to resource management projects. Incor-
porate the District’s list of potential projects into the Grant Program.
♦ Explore partnerships and foster relationships with educational institu-
tions, scientists, and other land management professionals in order to
share information and resources and to develop Memorandums of Un-
derstanding or Memorandums of Agreement between the District and
other agencies.
♦ Sponsor or participate in events and activities such as symposiums,
workshops, and conferences that support scientific research and
sound resource management practices.
♦ Encourage and facilitate currency on resource management tech-
niques, such as restoration, integrated pest management, and ero-
sion control.
♦ Provide internship support for appropriate research.
Policy RC-3 Undertake original research necessary for planning or man-
agement decisions.
♦ Carefully research existing information and explore opportunities for
cooperative studies to collect additional information.
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♦ Retain qualified consultants or researchers to conduct studies or col-
lect additional information in a standardized format that can be inte-
grated with the District’s GIS database.
♦ Encourage and facilitate training of District staff to obtain environmen-
tal permits (such as scientific collection or sensitive species handling
permits) in order to participate in or conduct needed research and
monitoring and to maintain relationships with agency staff.
♦ Share significant new information through resource agency contacts
and local and regional databases, such as the California Natural Di-
versity Data Base and Natural Resources Database.
Policy RC-4 Allow collecting, trapping, or other field research activities
only in conjunction with legitimate research consistent with
the District's management goals.
♦ Continue to administer the District’s Special Use Permit Program for
collection, trapping, archaeological research, or field studies on Dis-
trict lands.
♦ Require the researcher to share the information resulting from the
studies with the District and other appropriate parties. If appropriate,
integrate data into electronic filing system or GIS database.
Policy RC-5 Develop performance measures when designing District pro-
jects and collect monitoring data to evaluate project suc-
cess.
♦ Research and utilize existing performance measures from comparable
prior projects and partner agencies.
♦ Collect and evaluate monitoring data to measure project success and
for use in adaptive management.
♦ Engage in benchmarking opportunities with public, partners, and re-
search institutions through collaborations and the sharing of project
data.
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X. PUBLIC INTERPRETATION AND
ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION
BACKGROUND
Communication and outreach are key to developing broad public support
for acquiring and protecting open space. Increasing public knowledge
and appreciation of the preserves' natural and cultural resources will
improve support for their conservation. The District needs to inform the
public about District treasures, so it will care about protecting them.
The resource management program will play a vital role in this effort by
providing a greatly improved information base for the public. Studying the
current condition of preserve resources and discovering how best to main-
tain and restore them will reveal information that stimulates public interest,
makes the preserves more enjoyable places to visit, and inspires respect
and a sense of stewardship.
The District's Public Affairs department is charged with communicating this
information to the public. For example, staff works closely with local
schools, districts, agencies, and other special groups to provide environ-
mental education and interpretive programming to students, organiza-
tions, and the general public. The Public Affairs department also gets the
word out through publications, presentations, and working with the media.
The volunteer and docent programs greatly increase public outreach op-
portunities. The volunteer program provides a means for the public to
learn firsthand about stewardship, by participating in District projects. The
docent program trains docents to conduct activities on the preserves and
interpret District resources. Docents also staff the Daniels Nature Center
and lead environmental science-based field trips for students.
Environmental education is typically a curriculum-based approach tar-
geted toward students to attain an ultimate goal (such as environmental
stewardship). The District’s environmental science-based programming
was established in 1996 and serves elementary school students in a field
trip experience at the District’s Daniel’s Nature Center and surrounding
Skyline Ridge Preserve. During the program students engage in hands
on discovery and learning.
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Interpretation is a communication method that reveals meanings, con-
nections, and relationships by firsthand experience, and by illustrative me-
dia, such as web pages or signs. The District's interpretive program in-
cludes communication and outreach by District staff and docents, as well
as through brochures, publications, signage, signboards, exhibits, and
other means. Interpretive programs are often the most effective means of
stimulating understanding and appreciation of open space, providing in-
formation, promoting stewardship of resources, and helping ensure visitor
safety.
INTERPRETATION AND EDUCATION
GOALS, POLICIES, AND
IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES
Goal PI- Increase public knowledge, understanding, and
appreciation of the natural and cultural resources
of the preserves, and support for their conserva-
tion.
Policy PI-1 Provide interpretive programming, facilities, and materials.
(See CR-5, GM-6 and GM-7)
♦ Develop appropriate and timely projects and plans to support natural
and cultural resource interpretive opportunities that are guided by rec-
ommendations and priorities in the District’s Interpretive Systems
Plan (ISP),
♦ Provide interpretive materials via a wide range of media (web and print
based).
♦ Continue to operate an interpretive program at the David Daniels Na-
ture Center at Skyline Ridge Open Space Preserve with docents and
staff to support its use by the general public and local schools and
organizations.
An Interpretive Service Plan
(ISP) serves to identify and
prioritize the valuable natural
and cultural resource “sto-
ries” and connections that
can be brought forward
through enhanced or new in-
terpretive programs or facili-
ties at each location being
evaluated.
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♦ Provide information about the District's mission, resources, manage-
ment practices, and goals in District signboards, facilities, and publi-
cations. Encourage publication of this information in the general me-
dia.
♦ Provide training for new docents and additional "refresher courses" to
continue to help them provide interpretive services.
♦ Provide opportunities for the public to learn about natural resources
and support resource management activities through the docent and
volunteer programs.
Policy PI-2 Provide environmental education programming and out-
reach.
♦ Coordinate and cooperate with local agencies and organizations, par-
ticularly schools that would like to use District lands and facilities for
environmental education, whenever appropriate.
♦ Involve school children in District-sponsored environmental projects
and educational activities.
♦ Provide environmental education programs and materials to schools,
groups, and organizations.
Policy PI-3 Provide other public outreach.
♦ Support and/or participate in special events and programs that foster
public knowledge and appreciation of open space resources.
♦ Participate in multi-agency forums to share information and resources
and explore partnership opportunities.
♦ Develop and use outreach opportunities to gain public support for re-
source management goals and policies.
♦ Work with the Public Affairs Department to increase public awareness
of resource values.
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XI. GRAZING MANAGEMENT
BACKGROUND
The vegetation of the Santa Cruz Mountains is comprised of a rich and
diverse assemblage of plant species. This wealth of diversity was most
evident within the grassland ecosystems that evolved under a variety of
disturbance pressures including fire and grazing by large herds of ungu-
late animals, which are now mostly extinct. The flora that emerged has
been described as one of the most diverse and species rich ecosystems
in the United States.
The arrival of early Spanish and Anglo settlers initiated a particularly dra-
matic change in species composition of California grasslands, primarily as
a result of tilling the grasslands for agricultural crop production, reduction
of native grazing animals and introduction of cattle herds brought over
from Europe and let loose on the new rangeland. This introduction of non-
native plants and animals, coupled with the concurrent suppression of fire
on the landscape as the western United States was settled, resulted in the
substantial replacement of the native grassland vegetation with a predom-
inately exotic, annual flora. The exotic vegetation is often more competi-
tive, productive, and prolific than the native plants within which it coexists,
and tends to dominate and replace existing native grasses and wildflow-
ers. Over the last 150 years, coastal grassland areas have also experi-
enced large-scale conversion to agriculture or urban development. The
remaining undeveloped grasslands face continued development pressure
and are severely impacted by exotic, invasive organisms.
The District’s open space preserves contain large acreages of grasslands
that in many areas have been degraded due to the pressures described
above. Management of these grassland habitats is desirable to reduce
the risk of wildfire and to maintain viable native plant communities. Vege-
tation management using livestock grazing or other resource manage-
ment tools can be a substitute for native grazing animals and recurring fire
to achieve the District’s objective of preserving, protecting and restoring
the natural environment.
The greatest diversity within
California’s coastal
grasslands can be seen in
the forbs or wildflowers that
emerge in the spring
following winter rains. Sites
with adequate management
of non-native vegetation will
reward these efforts with
bountiful displays of colorful
spring wildflowers.
By some estimates, nearly
80 percent of the vegetation
cover within California
grasslands is exotic
vegetation.
District lands currently
contain approximately 5300
acres of grassland habitat.
The largest contiguous
grassland areas are within
District lands in western San
Mateo County.
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In 2003, the District completed the Service Plan and accompanying Envi-
ronmental Impact Report for the San Mateo Coastal Annexation Area ex-
pansion of the District’s boundaries to include coastal San Mateo County.
The Service Plan recognized the unique value of the San Mateo County
coastal area and established Agricultural Policies to preserve and encour-
age viable agricultural use of land. The Policies and Implementation
Measures established in this Grazing Management Policy are intended to
supplement and complement the Agricultural Policies in the Service Plan.
Furthermore, these Grazing Management Policies will be implemented in
a manner that is consistent with the Service Plan.
GRAZING MANAGEMENT GOALS,
POLICIES, AND IMPLEMENTATION
MEASURES
Goal GM- Manage District land with livestock grazing that is
protective of natural resources and that is compat-
ible with public access; to maintain and enhance
the diversity of native plant and animal communi-
ties, manage vegetation fuel for fire protection,
help sustain the local agricultural economy, and
preserve and foster appreciation for the region’s
rural agricultural heritage.
Policy GM-1 Ensure that grazing is compatible with and supports wildlife
and wildlife habitats.
♦ Inventory and assess sensitive habitats to identify areas requiring spe-
cial management practices. The conservation of these areas will take
precedence over other uses and management practices that are de-
termined to have an adverse effect on these resources.
♦ Prepare site-specific grazing management plans by a certified range-
land manager including best management practices (BMPs) for pre-
serves where grazing will be utilized as a resource management tool.
The site-specific grazing management plan will be a component of the
Livestock ranching is a small
but vital part of the Bay
Area’s agricultural economy.
As with any business that
depends on local
infrastructure and services,
livestock ranching is
increasingly threatened with
each ranch that goes out of
business. Every livestock
rancher depends on services
and supplies including
veterinary care, feed sales
and delivery, farm and ranch
infrastructure supplies, and
livestock transportation
services. As land is taken
out of ranching, all of these
services and supplies are
incrementally affected and
may cease to operate,
increasing the burden for
families and businesses that
choose to keep ranching.
Typical fencing used to
control livestock movement
is five-strand barbwire
fencing. Other fencing
types that may be used
include four-strand barbwire
for interior fencing, wood rail
fencing and temporary
electric fencing that can be
installed to seasonally
restrict livestock to target
areas or exclude livestock
from sensitive areas.
Wildlife-friendly fences
enable virtually all wild
animals to move through an
area without harm and with
minimal impediment.
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agricultural production plan developed through the Use and Manage-
ment Planning process. The Use and Management Planning process
provides for public input and Board approval of site-specific grazing
management plans.
♦ Manage agricultural leases and easements to protect and enhance
riparian areas and to maximize the protection or enhancement of
water quality. (See WR-4)
Policy GM-2 Provide necessary infrastructure to support and improve
grazing management where appropriate.
♦ Utilize fencing that allows wildlife movement and fosters habitat con-
nectivity. (See WM-3:Measure 3)
♦ Manage access to existing water features and where needed supply
supplemental drinking water through stock ponds and water troughs
to preserve clean water for livestock, protect water quality, and en-
hance habitat for wildlife.
♦ Encourage and assist grazing tenants on District land to provide range
improvements to restore or conserve wildland resources and to en-
hance range condition.
♦ Inventory and assess roads and trails on District lands to identify sig-
nificant erosion and sediment sources – abandon and where feasible
restore to a natural condition poorly designed or sited roads. (See
WR-4)
Policy GM-3 Monitor environmental response to grazing on District lands.
♦ Monitor forage utilization and distribution by grazing animals to assure
appropriate amounts of residual dry matter (RDM) remain on the
ground to achieve desired resource management objectives. In the
course of RDM monitoring, evaluate and report on wildland fire fuel
levels that may result in an increased risk of wildland fire (See WF
policies).
♦ Monitor livestock use levels and agricultural infrastructure condition
to insure conformity with lease provisions to contribute to improved
management.
Residual Dry Matter (RDM)
is a measure of the amount
of vegetation left on the
ground, typically measured
at the end of the summer or
fall. Appropriate levels of
RDM strive to minimize
thatch, which can inhibit new
plant growth, while
maintaining adequate levels
of vegetation to prohibit soil
erosion.
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♦ Monitor wildland conditions with an emphasis on documenting the lo-
cation, distribution and abundance of native grasses, wildflowers, and
other native flora and fauna.
♦ Monitor water quality in ponds, wetlands, and watercourses with un-
restricted livestock access.
♦ Monitor non-native vegetation response to grazing with an emphasis
on documenting the location, distribution and abundance of target,
invasive species.
♦ Use information collected from monitoring to annually review range-
land conditions and response to livestock grazing. Use adaptive re-
source management decision making framework within grazing
management plans.
Policy GM-4 Utilize different livestock species to accomplish vegetation
management objectives.
♦ Research the effective use of cattle, goats, sheep, and horses to man-
age vegetation on District lands.
♦ Utilize appropriate species depending on management needs.
Policy GM-5 Preserve and foster existing and potential grazing opera-
tions to help sustain the local agricultural economy.
♦ Establish longer term grazing leases to promote financial viability for
the operators and efficient land stewardship for the District.
♦ Seek grants or other economic support for agricultural infrastructure
maintenance and improvements.
♦ Ensure site-specific grazing management plans are economically fea-
sible and practical for grazing operators.
Policy GM-6 Provide information to the public about the region’s rural ag-
ricultural heritage. (See PI-1)
♦ Install display boards and give presentations highlighting historical
and educational facts about ranching families and industry at appro-
priate sites.
Fire reduction is a great
concern for some
landowners. However, cattle
are not able to graze all land
areas effectively for fire
protection purposes, such as
steep slopes or slopes
partially vegetated with
brush. In these instances,
goats may be an effective
alternative. Goat herds can
be rented for a short period
of time and can be moved
with a goat herder and
dog(s) along with portable
fence enclosures.
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Policy GM-7 Provide public access in a manner that minimizes impacts
on the grazing operation. (See PI-1)
♦ Grazing operators on District lands or lands under easement to the
District shall be consulted when public access is being planned and
considered for the property to minimize conflicts between the public
and the grazing operation.
♦ Prepare and distribute a brochure to educate visitors about etiquette
for use of open space property with livestock animals.
♦ Install signage where appropriate to educate the public about the re-
source benefits of grazing and to educate visitors about approaching
animals, closing gates, and other etiquette appropriate for moving
through lands with livestock animals.
Policy GM-8 Grazing operations on District lands in the Coastside Pro-
tection Area will be managed in accordance with the policies
established in the Service Plan for the San Mateo Coastal
Annexation Area.
♦ Consult with appropriate agencies and interest groups, including the
San Mateo County Farm Bureau and San Mateo County Agricultural
Advisory Committee in the development of site-specific Use and Man-
agement plans and agricultural production plan components in the
Coastside Protection Area.
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XII. FOREST MANAGEMENT
BACKGROUND
As of 2007, District lands encompass approximately 30,000 acres of for-
est and woodland habitat. Approximately 11,500 acres consist of red-
wood and Douglas-fir associated coniferous forest, located primarily in
the northern Skyline area of the District. These forests are often inter-
mixed with a lesser component of hardwood, primarily tanoak, madrone,
California bay, black oak, and various live oaks.
The remaining 18,500 acres consist of a variety of hardwood forest and
woodlands. These consist of numerous oak species (coast live, canyon
live, and Shreve oak, black oak, blue oak, valley oak), madrone, tanoak,
California bay, California buckeye, and riparian species such as red and
white alder, big-leaf maple, various willow species, California sycamore,
and box elder.
Forest and woodlands within the District have been subject to significant
historic modifications. Portions of the oak forests and woodlands have
had a history of livestock grazing and fuel wood procurement. The ef-
fects of these uses are not well documented, but young dense stands
(primarily live oak species) occur within the preserves in areas of prior dis-
turbance. These young dense stands often occur along forest margins or
have regenerated within areas that had been previously cleared. At the
other end of the spectrum are beautiful stands of large old majestic oaks.
Concerns about the reduction of oak forest and woodland within California
often center on their conversion to urbanized uses or commercial agricul-
ture. The primary role for the District is the preservation and protection of
these forests and woodlands, particularly considering the heavy urban
growth pressures within the San Francisco Bay Area.
Riparian hardwood forests have also been modified in areas by past land
use practices. These practices have typically whittled away at the width
of the corridors, in places narrowing the corridors to thin strips along the
edges of creeks. When riparian forests are modified in this manner, it is
common for the species composition to change to those species that pre-
fer to be near the water (typically willow and alder), while reducing species
that typically occupy elevated floodplains such as sycamore.
The term forest applies to
habitats dominated by tree
species with a continuous or
nearly continuous canopy
covering substantial portions
of the landscape.
Woodlands consist of
scattered trees across the
landscape intermixed with a
significant habitat component
of other vegetation types
such as grassland.
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The proximity of the redwood and Douglas-fir forests in the Santa Cruz
Mountains to the urban San Francisco Bay Area and associated ports of
trade fostered the development of an early and intense commercial log-
ging industry. Commercial timber harvest and milling activities were well
underway beginning in the 1850’s within the La Honda Creek, Purisima
Creek Redwoods, and El Corte de Madera Creek Open Space Preserve
areas. Timber harvest activities have generally altered the forest stands
by reducing the size and age of the stands and increasing the density of
the young growth. This is clearly evident when viewing the distribution of
old growth redwood stumps within the forests. A second round of logging
that focused on residual (left over) old growth and the second growth that
re-sprouted from the late 1800’s clear cuts began in the 1950’s-1960’s.
Tractor logging continued within El Corte de Madera Creek and Purisima
Creek watersheds throughout the 1970’s and 1980’s, resulting in third
and fourth timber harvest entries into much of the areas that are now pro-
tected by the open space preserves.
Numerous roads were constructed to facilitate access to early timber (and
grazing) operations on the properties now owned by the District. These
roads were often constructed in locations, and utilizing methods that were
insufficiently protective of water quality and aquatic resources. The elim-
ination or conversion of non-essential roads and the judicious mainte-
nance of essential roads will be necessary to protect water quality and
aquatic resources.
Pathogens are a significant threat to the District forests. The most notable
pathogen at present is Phytophthora ramorum which is responsible for
Sudden Oak Death syndrome, commonly known as SOD. A number of
oak species are susceptible to death and slow decline from SOD, particu-
larly tanoak, and additional host species include many other forest trees
and shrubs. SOD has the potential to seriously impact forests within the
preserves and the region, presenting a number of social and ecological
concerns.
All of the forest ecosystems within the District preserves evolved in asso-
ciation with periodic fire. Fire suppression activities within the Santa
Cruz Mountains, as well as throughout the Western United States, have
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also had an effect on District forests. The effects of fire suppression typi-
cally include an increase in forest density, a build up of forest floor fuel
loads, and a decrease in herbaceous forest floor plant communities. For-
est management actions can be undertaken to reduce the severity of fires
within the forest ecosystem and watersheds when these fires occur. Pre-
scriptive forest management can achieve conditions suitable for the rein-
troduction of fire into forest ecosystems, an ecological function that has
been largely absent, except under typically severe conditions, for the past
sixty years.
The District has preserved large blocks of forest and woodland. The over-
all extent of District land holdings within the greater Santa Cruz Mountain
Bioregion is exceptionally important to regional biodiversity and well
suited to regional ecosystem management. State, county and local parks,
non profit and conservation organization owned properties and numerous
conservation easements over both public and private properties, together
with the District preserves, provide tremendous opportunities for regional
forest preservation and restoration.
Active conifer forest management on public lands is typically limited to
relatively small fuel management projects and controlled burns in old
growth stands within some state parks. This limits the majority of these
forests to more hands off management, requiring long periods of time
where trees compete for food, water, and sunlight. During this time period,
which can take hundreds of years, the dominant trees will persist, while
the less dominant trees will be crowded out and die. During much of this
transitional period, habitat complexity and biodiversity can remain rela-
tively stagnant and simplified. Maintaining most of these protected forests
under the same management paradigm has the potential to suppress re-
gional biodiversity.
From a regional perspective, old growth and late-seral conifer forests are
very limited in distribution. Late-seral forests, or late-successional for-
ests, are older forests that begin to develop some characteristics similar
to old growth forests. The initial development of late-seral redwood and
Douglas-fir forests is generally considered to take place between 80 to 300
years, and continue to persist for centuries, with the oldest redwoods
reaching an age of 1,000 to 2,000 years old. The District preserves have
retained a significant “biological legacy” of residual (uncut) single old
Late-seral and old growth
forest characteristics
typically include: large widely
spaced trees, thick bark,
large complex branches,
large standing snags in
various stages of decay,
large downed logs on the
forest floor, and a closed
canopy. This complex
structure results in a very
wide variety of habitat
conditions and results in
tremendous biodiversity.
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growth trees and small stands of old growth, as well as a substantial older
Douglas fir component. These biological legacies are known to harbor
significant remaining habitat components that are used by wildlife, from
the canopy species such as marbled murrelets down to soil microbes.
The District’s conifer dominated Preserves offer the opportunity to manage
forest conditions to accelerate late-seral habitat conditions to promote
biologically diverse, dynamic forest habitat, increase the extent of this lim-
ited habitat, and accelerate the development of forest structure for the ben-
efit of protected species and for improved fire resistance.
FOREST MANAGEMENT GOALS,
POLICIES, AND IMPLEMENTATION
MEASURES
Goal FM- Manage District land to retain and promote biolog-
ically diverse, dynamic forest conditions; maintain
and enhance high quality forest and aquatic habi-
tat; encourage and enhance the development of
late-seral conifer forest; provide for visitor experi-
ences within diverse forest habitat; and promote
District and regional fire management objectives.
Policy FM-1 Inventory and assess District forest and woodland.
♦ Inventory and assess existing District forest conditions. Inventories
within hardwood stands should include forest age, structure, health,
and an evaluation of regeneration (growth of seedlings and young
trees). Inventories within conifer stands should have a particular em-
phasis on forest age and structural characteristics, identification of bi-
ological legacies, and the reconnection and restoration of late-seral
habitat. Inventories should also include the identification and assess-
ment of any effects of urbanization on the forests.
♦ Identify unique habitat features such as meadows, ponds, or other
non-forested communities. Evaluate the need for management to
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maintain landscape heterogeneity and specialized habitat for non-for-
est wildlife and vegetation.
♦ Inventory District forest wildlife with a particular emphasis on special
status species, such as the marbled murrelet, spotted owl, Vaux’s
swift, numerous raptor species, and indicator species such as the pi-
leated woodpecker.
♦ Inventory District forest to assess fuel loads and forest structure re-
lated to fire. Identify access issues and District and community/re-
gional fire concerns.
Policy FM-2 Ensure that forest management activities are compatible
with the protection of special status plant and animal spe-
cies.
♦ Conduct time appropriate surveys for special status species to estab-
lish the presence or absence thereof, and identify essential habitat
features (nest trees, roosts, sheltering trees, springs, and ponds).
♦ Manage forests to expand critical habitat for sensitive species by re-
storing forest structure and habitat elements utilized by sensitive spe-
cies to develop and connect suitable habitat.
♦ Continue regular consultation with regulatory agencies and experts to
develop plans to protect and enhance habitat for sensitive species.
Policy FM-3 Ensure that forest management activities are compatible
with riparian ecosystem and water resources protection and
policies.
♦ Protect riparian ecosystems and habitat to maintain natural hydro-
logic process, water quality, and wildlife benefits. Maintain essential
riparian functions, and if necessary enhance and restore riparian hab-
itats.
♦ Inventory and assess roads and trails on District forestlands to identify
significant erosion and sediment sources. Maintain essential roads to
high standards, and eliminate or reduce to trail width all non-essential
roads. (See Policies WR-3 and WR-4).
Riparian ecosystems are
streamside ecosystems that
are extremely important to
numerous forest plant and
wildlife species. In addition
to benefits to wildlife such as
fish and amphibians, these
ecosystems also play critical
roles regarding forest
hydrology and water quality.
The protection and
restoration of Riparian
ecosystems is a primary
component of Forest
Management.
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♦ Discourage forest management activities within riparian areas unless
justified and implemented for the specific purpose of restoring de-
graded riparian habitat.
Policy FM-4 Manage District conifer forests to sustain and encourage the
development of late-seral habitat conditions.
♦ Prepare Forest Management Plans for high priority District forests
to establish habitat goals and appropriate management treatments.
Utilize restoration ecologists, forest ecologists, Registered Profes-
sional Foresters, or other resource management professionals to
prepare plans, as appropriate.
♦ Restore degraded forest habitats to promote the development of late-
seral habitat, forest habitat complexity, and to enhance biodiversity,
where existing stand conditions and access permit. Utilize state of the
art silvicultural (forestry) practices to restore degraded forests.
♦ Protect existing residual old growth trees and stands, mature oaks,
and most large, older Douglas fir trees. The conservation of these
areas will take precedence over other uses and management prac-
tices that are determined to have an adverse effect on these re-
sources.
♦ Maintain and/or create large snags and downed wood for wildlife hab-
itat where not a safety hazard.
♦ Foster relationships with educational institutions, forest scientists and
forest professionals to inform District forest management decisions
based upon sound, current science, and to contribute opportunities for
continuing research of late-seral focused management. Seek grant
opportunities and partnerships for forest research and monitoring.
Policy FM-5 Provide necessary fire and fuel management practices to
protect forest resources and public health and safety. (See
WF policies)
♦ Maintain essential roads for emergency fire access, and forest man-
agement activities undertaken to reduce fire hazard.
♦ Maintain adequate fire clearance around District structures and facili-
ties. (See WF-3 and WF-1: Measure 5)
Restoration forestry
practices may result in
timber that would be
available for commercial
sale. Revenue derived from
commercial timber sales
conducted in conjunction
with restoration activities will
be used for resource
management activities (such
as road upgrade projects,
weed abatement projects,
and long-term monitoring).
Snags are dead standing
trees that are important to a
variety of species. As trees
age and die, holes created
by woodpeckers cavity
decay, and broken branches
create new habitat niches for
a host of bird, bat, small
mammal, amphibian, and
insect species. Snags and
large downed wood are
critical components of high
quality late-seral forest
communities.
Late-seral redwood and
Douglas-fir forests are
generally considered to be
some of the most fire
resistant and resilient type of
forest.
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♦ Encourage neighboring property owners to maintain adequate fire
clearance around existing development. Consult with regulatory
agencies to encourage that construction of new development main-
tains fire agency recommended setbacks for fire clearance between
new development and District forest and woodland.
♦ Evaluate the potential to reduce forest fuel loading through the re-
moval of smaller trees to reduce forest floor fuel buildup and ladder
fuels.
♦ Coordinate with fire agencies and local communities to define loca-
tions where fire protection infrastructure is desirable and practical.
♦ Reintroduce fire as a resource management tool to reduce forest floor
fuels and reestablish fire for ecosystem health where stand conditions,
access, and public safety permit. Coordinate with other agencies for
planning and implementation.
♦ Seek grant opportunities and partnerships for fuel management pro-
jects and monitoring.
Policy FM-6 Protect forest health from intense wildfire, pests, and path-
ogens with high potential to cause damage.
♦ Evaluate potential for forest loss to intense wildfire, pests and patho-
gens where effective methods are available and justified.
♦ Limit the scale of clearings and light-gaps in forests to reduce potential
for weed establishment. Where activities occur within the forest
edges, weed treatments and monitoring will be a component of the
treatment plan.
♦ Manage forest diseases when necessary to protect natural biological
diversity and critical ecosystem functions. Regarding Sudden Oak
Death (SOD): detect, report and monitor infested areas; utilize sanita-
tion and best management practices (BMPs) to control the spread
of the SOD pathogen; train staff and educate the public; and support
SOD research to guide land management decisions (See VM-1 and
WF policies).
Policy FM-7 Monitor wildlife, water quality, and vegetation response to
forest management activities.
Fire hazard reduction is a
great concern for some
landowners, particularly
residential landowners. Fire
can also be a significant
threat to the environment,
particularly water and
aquatic resources.
Shaded fuel breaks are an
example of a fuel reduction
project that the District can
undertake. They consist of
areas where vegetation is
thinned to break up
horizontal connectivity, and
lower growing “ladder fuels”
that can connect ground fire
to tree canopy are removed.
Enough tall tree canopy is
retained to maintain shade to
discourage the re-growth of
ladder fuels. These often
require follow-up
maintenance.
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♦ Conduct pre and post project wildlife and vegetation surveys with em-
phasis on special status species.
♦ Monitor water quality upstream and downstream of forest manage-
ment activities that have the potential to negatively affect water quality
or aquatic resources.
♦ Periodically re-inventory forest conditions with a frequency adequate
to monitor forest response to management.
Policy FM-8 Provide educational opportunities for the general public and
recreational users regarding forest ecosystems and man-
agement.
♦ Place interpretive displays in accessible locations to inform and edu-
cate the public about forest ecosystems, and management techniques
employed on District lands.
♦ Conduct public outreach to inform and gain support for District activi-
ties within the local community.
♦ Conduct interviews with individuals related to past land use and his-
tory of forested Preserves to compile historical details and perspec-
tives on District forest land. Include history into interpretation and
educational opportunities within the Preserves.
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XIII. ECOLOGICAL
SUCCESSION
BACKGROUND
Ecological succession is the sequential development of plant and animal
communities following disturbance. In a land management context, this
natural process can be both positive and negative. For example, the nat-
ural recruitment of coyote brush in grassland areas on District lands is re-
ducing the extent of this already-limited habitat type and has serious im-
pacts on native plants and wildlife. Regrowth of mixed evergreen forest
in previously-logged areas is threatening to shade out rare species. Ponds
and seasonal wetlands, which are slowly filling in with sediment and con-
verting to grassland and areas dominated by broadleaf tree species can
become shaded out by coniferous forests. This policy addresses such
undesirable habitat type conversions that result from the process of eco-
logical succession.
The directional nature of succession was once thought to result in a stable,
stationary species composition (known as the “climax community”) over
time. In reality, however, all natural systems are subject to disturbance
and limited by seed availability and the process of succession may never
reach completion. Early-succession species have specific life history
strategies which allow them to take advantage of disturbance. Further-
more, some species, such as knobcone pine, King’s Mountain manzanita,
and many grassland plants, are disturbance-dependent: they require
disturbance to maintain habitat conditions suitable for reproduction and
establishment. Both natural and human disturbance drive species com-
position in natural habitats. Past disturbance regimes (either natural or
historic and pre-historic land management) can be artificially re-created to
maintain desired habitat types. More intensive management may also be
necessary as climate change causes large-scale shifts in plant commu-
nity composition and distribution.
Ecological disturbance is the
disruption of an ecosystem's
structure and function,
generally with effects that
last for time periods longer
than a single growing season
for vegetation.
Physical disturbances in our
region include fire,
windstorm, drought, flood,
and earthquake.
Biogenic disturbances
include the impacts of
herbivorous insects,
mammals, disease, and
pathogens.
Anthropogenic disturbances
include logging,
development, agricultural
land use conversion, and
non-native invasive species
introductions.
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ECOLOGICAL SUCCESSION GOAL,
POLICIES, AND IMPLEMENTATION
MEASURES
Goal ES- Use sustainable land management techniques to
maintain, restore, or simulate natural disturbance
in priority habitats.
Policy ES-1 Manage historic grassland areas that are threatened by
shrub encroachment. (See VM-1)
♦ Identify priority grasslands for management, focusing on those with
cultural significance and/or a substantial component of native species.
♦ Identify the most cost-effective, safe, and least environmentally dam-
aging management technique for shrub removal, including livestock
grazing, mechanical removal, and prescribed fire.
♦ Prepare long-term plans for managed grassland areas to ensure that
desired conditions are maintained.
♦ Monitor and manage grasslands for invasive species and biodiversity
to promote use of grasslands by native and special status species
Policy ES-2 Preserve and enhance pond habitats and other wetlands.
♦ Inventory and assess ponds to identify opportunities for habitat
maintenance and/or aesthetic enhancement.
♦ Monitor sensitive reptile and amphibian populations on District lands.
♦ Preserve pond habitats through maintenance of infrastructure such
as: pond contours, depth, earthen berms, spillways and inlet and
outlet features
♦ Remove sediment or invasive vegetation to provide improved habitat
for sensitive species.
Policy ES-3 Facilitate regeneration of disturbance-dependent special
status, rare, or unique plants.
As Alpine Pond, Horseshoe
Lake, and other District
ponds fill with sediment,
open water habitat is rapidly
transitioning to cattail marsh
with little open water.
Certain rare amphibians as
well as many common
wildlife species require open
water for key portions of their
life cycles.
Unique stands of knobcone
pine, a fire-adapted species,
in southern Sierra Azul Open
Space Preserve will hold
seeds in pine cones for up to
30 years waiting for a fire to
release them. With the
absence of fire, knobcone
stands are not being
replaced as older mature
trees die off and their seeds
are not released resulting in
an overall decline of the
species.
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♦ Research, document, and implement site specific fire prescriptions to
improve regeneration of fire adapted and special status vegetation in
fire-dependent ecosystems where feasible.
♦ Develop and implement an alternative management protocol to en-
courage seedling establishment of special status and disturbance
adapted species in aging stands when regeneration by fire is not fea-
sible.
Nearly all stands of the rare
Kings Mountain manzanita
on District lands are in
danger of being shaded out
by Douglas fir and other
trees. No regeneration has
been observed in these
stands.
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XIV. HABITAT CONNECTIVITY
BACKGROUND
Habitats are the conditions and locations in which plants and animals live
and reproduce, and are a critical component of a naturally functioning eco-
system. Habitats come in many forms, but are traditionally thought of as
the particular communities of plants and animals that together comprise
the ideal conditions for one focal species or for a broad assembly of par-
ticular plants and animals. District open space lands are made up of a
wide variety of habitats, including freshwater streams, redwood forests,
oak woodlands, coastal grasslands, chaparral, and many others. In ar-
eas surrounding District Preserves, one finds many of these same com-
munities. Connections that link otherwise isolated habitats are known as
corridors, and effectively extend the range of a species from one location
to many locations in accessible areas. Wildlife corridors may be exten-
sive contiguous natural areas suitable for a wide-ranging organism, a
stream with a continuous wide buffer of riparian vegetation, or even a
tunnel or culvert beneath a highway that allows passage of animals.
The District’s Geographic Setting
The District’s sphere of influence, spanning the San Francisco Peninsula
from the Pacific Ocean in San Mateo County to the baylands in San Mateo
and Santa Clara Counties, is drawn along both natural and political bound-
aries. The District encompasses much of the northern portion of the Santa
Cruz Mountains, numerous foothills and ridges of that mountain system,
and more than 50 miles of coastline, both on the Pacific Ocean and the
San Francisco Bay. The Santa Cruz Mountains are a local spur of the
Coast Range, and are physically separated from the larger system by the
Golden Gate to the north, the Santa Clara Valley to the east and south,
and the Pajaro Valley to the south. The closest adjacent mountains and
foothills with a similar suite of resident species are the Gabilan Range and
the Diablo Range, and it is with these regions that biological exchange is
both most likely and most critical.
Although the Santa Cruz
Mountains are
geographically separate from
the nearby mountain ranges,
they share many of the same
species, and are
interconnected through
routes of migration and
dispersal. These
connections often referred to
as “wildlife corridors,”
commonly follow
watercourses into and out of
the foothills and valleys. In
the San Francisco Bay
region and elsewhere,
wildlife corridors are
frequently intersected by
roads and highways.
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Habitats in the Santa Cruz Mountains are both connected to and isolated
from comparable habitats in nearby areas. This means that interaction
between local and neighboring plant and animal populations is governed
by their need and ability to move across areas that are inhospitable or
even hazardous to survival of the population. These barriers can take
many forms, and have differing effects on various species. Furthermore,
as humans modify the natural environment, pre-existing boundaries to
plant and animal movement can change dramatically. Modified habitat
connectivity may result from new roads or houses, changing vegetation,
or even from the effects of climatic changes on habitat distribution. Habitat
features are just one aspect of a functioning interdependent ecosystem;
thus, the permeability of geographic barriers is a complex and ever-chang-
ing relationship. It is a function not only of the species’ capacity for cross-
ing barriers, but also of the obstacles themselves.
Basic Habitat Ecology
An ecosystem’s many habitats form a complex mosaic on the landscape.
They may gradually transform from one to another, or change suddenly at
a natural or a man made boundary. Two or more habitats may coexist or
form a relationship, as when a stream, a linear habitat for fish, insects, and
riparian plants, flows through an oak woodland, which is found only where
specific kinds of soil type, water availability, and weather conditions occur.
Habitats may also be partially or completely interrupted, as when a broad
river bisects a grassy plain, a highway passes through the redwoods, or a
meadow forms in the woods.
Both the relative size and extent of a habitat’s connectivity to other habitats
are key factors in its ability to support the plants and animals that depend
on it, and in the variety of species, or biodiversity, it can support. Typi-
cally, the most resilient and diverse habitats are large areas connected by
corridors along which wide-ranging animals can travel, plants can propa-
gate, genetic interchange can occur, populations can move in response to
environmental changes and natural disasters, and species at risk can be
replenished from other areas. For habitats in the District, migratory and
genetic linkage with neighboring mountain ranges, where many of the
same plant and animals live and reproduce, is important for overall popu-
lation health. Species living in small, isolated patches of habitat are more
vulnerable to disease, population pressures, predation, and other
Preserving contiguous
natural habitats is key to
preserving biodiversity in a
changing world. When a
species is reduced to a few
isolated populations due to
fragmentation of its habitat, a
natural stressor such as a
fire or drought can wipe out a
significant portion of the
remnant population, bringing
it closer to extinction.
Connected habitats help
species respond to changes
in their environment.
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stresses. Such isolation can also lead to inbreeding, which compromises
genetic diversity and contributes to instability of species populations. This
need for habitat connectivity is particularly true of wide-ranging animals
such as mountain lions, eagles, or salmon, but is also applicable at smaller
scales. For example, movement across a small road can be critical for the
newt that must locate a valuable food source or find a mate.
To support a viable population over the long term, a given species needs
an uninterrupted patch of suitable habitat of a particular size. The needed
size varies, but always greatly exceeds the range of one individual. This
core habitat is bordered by edges that can fill some of an organism’s
needs, but do not support stable populations. The largest patches have a
high proportion of core habitats, but also provide edge zones. Barriers to
movement such as roads, homes, or walls cause habitat fragmentation,
in which multiple smaller edge habitats are formed. Habitat fragmentation
can greatly diminish the viability of the ecosystem. As habitats become
fragmented, the amount of core habitat decreases while edge habitat in-
creases. This can greatly reduce habitat viability for species with unique
requirements such as nesting owls or murrelets, or increase predation by
edge-adapted predators such as cats or raccoons.
Types of Movement and Barriers to Movement
Movement of plant and animal species occurs at every scale, from the
small matter of crossing a trail to the significant task of climbing a moun-
tain. Furthermore, movement of species can be described not only as
locomotion, or movement of individuals, but also as dispersal of eggs,
seeds, or larvae. Although the challenges to a single individual can be
seen as an effective model for their whole species, habitat networks are
more specifically relevant to populations than to individuals. Various spe-
cies use these corridors frequently, seasonally, or only on rare occasions.
Again, the large and wide-ranging animals utilize regional scale habitat
networks most heavily, while smaller scale networks may occur between
one stream and a woodland for frogs or among interconnected grasslands
for a population of deer.
The District’s boundaries
encompass many of the
remaining undeveloped
habitats within the San
Francisco Peninsula. The
main connection for the
plants and animals inhabiting
District habitats is through
relatively narrow corridors at
the southern end of the
Santa Cruz Mountain Range
and across the Santa Clara
Valley. Smaller
thoroughfares, residential
construction, and some
natural features are
hindrances to the movement
of smaller animals and
distribution of plants.
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HABITAT CONNECTIVITY GOAL,
POLICIES, AND IMPLEMENTATION
MEASURES
Goal HC- Protect ecosystem integrity by maximizing habitat
connectivity.
Policy HC-1 Identify and include habitat connectivity from a local and re-
gional scale in strategic land acquisition planning.
♦ Maximize habitat connectivity for priority plant and wildlife species in
new property purchases.
♦ Actively participate and coordinate with regional and local land preser-
vation groups and resource agencies to develop strategic goals for
protecting or purchasing critical habitat areas and/or movement corri-
dors.
♦ Emphasize protection of extensive and interconnected open space
habitats.
Policy HC-2 Identify and protect existing habitat networks to prevent fur-
ther compromise to ecosystem integrity. (See WM-2: Meas-
ure3)
♦ Evaluate existing facilities and land uses that impact habitat connec-
tivity and riparian corridors and prepare plans for protection or resto-
ration, as appropriate.
♦ Identify wildlife movement patterns and high value habitat features
and formulate site-specific habitat management goals.
♦ Encourage field research activities including collecting, trapping, and
tracking in support of studies that can inform District management of
natural resources and ecosystems.
♦ Incorporate construction practices that avoid the creation of unneces-
sary barriers to habitat connectivity. Where feasible, utilize removable
Wildlife corridors, or the
paths of movement between
patches of an animal’s
distribution, are only one
component of an effectively
connected habitat. As the
science of biogeography and
population dynamics
develops, wildlife corridors
have come to mean
structures or narrow
reserves set aside for
crossing highways at pinch
points or along established
migration routes. Habitat
networks are a more resilient
and extensive linkage of
suitable environments that
support dynamic and mobile
populations of plants and
animals.
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fencing, wildlife friendly silt trapping devices, and other design fea-
tures that allow passage of plants and animals during and after project
implementation
♦ Evaluate the existing habitat values of human-made structures prior
to removal.
♦ Strive to connect isolated natural areas through movement corridors
to facilitate connection across barrier(s).
♦ Identify unique or locally rare habitat types and target for protection.
Strive to maximize habitat connectivity for locally rare habitats such as
serpentine grassland, valley oak woodlands, coastal terrace prairie,
etc.
Policy HC-3 Collaborate with neighboring land holders and surrounding
agencies to support regional efforts to establish and main-
tain habitat networks. (See WM-2: Measure 3 and WM-3:
Measure 3)
♦ Advocate for land use plans and policies that preserve the District’s
biogeographic connectivity with the greater Santa Cruz Mountains and
with the neighboring Gabilan and Diablo Ranges.
♦ Review and comment on land use decisions that impact habitat con-
nectivity within the District’s jurisdiction and bioregion, including con-
struction or modification of roads and proposals for large scale devel-
opments.
Policy HC-4 Restore, maintain or enhance local habitat networks formed
within or incorporating Preserves and other protected lands.
(See WM-2: Measure 3 and WM-3: Measure 3)
♦ Review and comment on land use decisions that impact habitats con-
tiguous to those located on District Preserves. Recommend and sup-
port measures to maintain connected and undegraded habitats where
possible.
♦ Protect and restore known habitats of rare, endangered, or special
status species, taking into consideration the legal protection, distribu-
tion and abundance, and risk to specific resources involved.
Early results from the Bay
Area Puma Project indicate
that Highway 17 may act as
barrier to movement within
the Santa Cruz Mountains. If
mountain lions are not able
to actively cross this barrier,
it can result in a loss of con-
nectivity leading to an iso-
lated population of lions on
the San Francisco Penin-
sula. Over time this isolated
population may lose genetic
diversity and become vulner-
able to disease, predation,
and other stressors. Multiple
agency and landowner coop-
eration are needed to effec-
tively address this issue.
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♦ Designate sensitive habitat areas and, if necessary, limit or exclude
public access to these areas for resource protection.
♦ Evaluate impacts on wildlife movement and habitat connectivity when
planning trails and other facilities.
♦ Identify and protect established wildlife crossings to allow movement
across existing roads. Where appropriate, modify established cross-
ings to improve habitat features.
♦ Collaborate with resource agencies to restore and enhance the habi-
tats of protected and special status species known to utilize preserve
areas.
Policy HC-5 Preserve and enhance riparian, stream, and other wetland
habitat locally and at a watershed level to provide important
habitat connections. (See WM-2: Measure 3)
♦ Inventory and assess stream reaches accessible to anadromous fish-
eries to identify impediments to fish passage and opportunities for
habitat enhancement. Remove artificial barriers to fish passage
where removal would enhance spawning and rearing habitats.
♦ Enhance spawning and rearing habitats for native fisheries through
restoration. Prioritize restoration and enhancement of areas providing
habitat to sensitive species.
♦ Restore hydrologic processes altered by human activity by installing
erosion control materials and structures, and minimizing culverts and
drainage diversions where appropriate, and using improved drainage
structures that minimize alteration of hydrology.
♦ Participate in regional watershed management planning and restora-
tion activities.
♦ Identify and remove invasive species in riparian, stream and wetland
habitats that act as a barrier to wildlife use
Streams can be thought of
as linear habitat corridors,
particularly for fish that
migrate from land to sea.
Anadromous fish, such as
steelhead trout, return from
the open ocean as adults to
freshwater streams to breed.
Human activities have
greatly altered and degraded
many of the streams in the
Bay Area primarily through
barriers to fish passage,
such as road culverts and
dams and through
degradation of spawning
habitats by excessive
sedimentation of spawning
gravels.
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XV. WILDLAND FIRE
MANAGEMENT
BACKGROUND
The Mediterranean climate of California’s San Francisco Bay Area affords
District lands an unparalleled diversity of plants and habitats; from red-
wood forests on the coast and northern portions of the District to dry chap-
arral habitats and hardwood (oak, madrone) dominated forests in the
southern end of the District. Given the diversity of rainfall, climate, vege-
tation, soil and geology, one constant emerges throughout the District (and
in fact throughout California); all landscapes have been subject to periodic
fires through time. The present and future will be no different.
To understand the role of wildland fire on District lands, it is important to
understand the past. Native Americans within the area utilized fire as a
tool for improving wildlife habitat for grazing animals (deer, elk, rabbits),
maintaining productive vegetation communities for food procurement
(grasslands, oak woodlands), to maintain travel routes, and to manage
pests. Burning by Native Americans took place for thousands of years, a
practice that significantly increased the frequency of fire locally. These
practices, in addition to the benefits listed above, greatly reduced much of
the fuel load on the ground and significantly reduced the severity of fires
within these fire managed landscapes.
Many of the vegetation communities on District lands evolved with the oc-
currence of periodic fire and have acquired unique adaptations to with-
stand and regenerate after a fire. Without periodic fire, these plant com-
munities build abnormally high and dangerous fuel levels and are suscep-
tible to large scale destructive fire events. Fire is a natural occurrence on
the landscape; our challenge is to find ways to live safely with fire.
From 1860 through the early 1920’s unprecedented alterations took place
within the forests of the Santa Cruz Mountains. The ancient “old growth”
forests were mostly clear-cut and burned. This removed the largest, most
fire-resistant trees from the forested landscape. The forest that has grown
back typically consists of a much higher density of trees that are more
susceptible to fire. This period of time also corresponded to the first wave
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of development within the San Francisco Bay Region and ushered in a
new paradigm for wildland fire response: immediate suppression.
This has increased the time interval between fires on most land to time
periods substantially longer than Native American burning and natural
lightning-caused fire. The result is a vegetated landscape that has largely
been prevented from burning, and that has accumulated fuel loads and
structural characteristics that have not occurred on the landscape for thou-
sands of years, if ever.
The District was formed in response to the observed population growth
and development pressure within the San Francisco Bay Region of the
late 1900’s. This has substantially reduced residential development in
some areas, and significantly decreased the level of fire risk by precluding
development that would have likely otherwise resulted in additional high
risk communities. Nonetheless, there is some residential development
(including some on District property) intermixed with District Preserves that
deserve consideration.
The wildland-urban interface (WUI) refers to areas where residential de-
velopment, from a few scattered houses to larger subdivisions or commu-
nities, exist immediately adjacent to or nearby parks, open space pre-
serves, or other relatively undeveloped “wildlands”. Important issues
within this interface include defensible space around residential struc-
tures, emergency vehicle access, and residential fire improvements such
as water tanks, fire hydrants, sprinklers, and fire resistant construction
techniques.
The District is an active participant in coordinating with various fire agen-
cies and community fire planning efforts. District participation in these
planning efforts will continue. These include the development of regional
fire plans, Fire Safe Council meetings, and the preparation of Commu-
nity Wildfire Protection Plans (CWPPs). The District also coordinates
with local fire agencies and other park agencies conducting and participat-
ing in prescribed fire for resource management purposes.
The District, for many years, has undertaken various wildland fire man-
agement practices to effectively manage fuel loads and decrease wildland
fire risk. Among these, the District annually maintains a series of disc lines
(where vegetation is mechanically disked with a tractor to reduce dry fuel
along ignition sources such as roads); vegetation is mowed or brushed
back from roads and trails; roads, parking areas, and Preserve entrances
The WUI is an area where
urban ignition sources such
as vehicles, equipment, burn
piles, barbeques, chimneys,
smoking, fireworks, etc. from
adjacent residential
properties and public streets
pose a threat to Open Space
lands. Residential structures
can also supply fuel for fire
that can cross into open
space lands.
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are maintained to provide access for District patrol vehicles and other
emergency vehicles; and vegetation is cleared from around District struc-
tures and residences. Preserve access points are closed when appropri-
ate during periods of high fire risk. The District possesses a number of
firefighting apparatus including a water tank truck, and smaller water tanks
with hoses outfitted on Ranger vehicles, as well as portable water-
pack/spray outfits for individual personnel. Fire training is also provided to
District personnel who may be involved in combating wildland fire.
The District has an active vegetation management program that has
been targeting invasive plant species that can be fire hazards, such as
eucalyptus and French broom. Active livestock grazing is being main-
tained and has been re-introduced on some Preserves to reduce the fuel
loads in the mostly non-native grasslands. Conservation grazing is being
used to encourage the vigor of native grasses and forbs that typically pro-
duce less fuel (thatch). Given their year-round growth cycle, perennial
native grasses maintain moisture later into the dry season, reducing fire
hazard. The vegetation management program at the District also utilizes
prescribed fire for managing invasive species in addition to fuel load re-
duction benefits.
The substantial historic alterations of the landscape, the history of fire
suppression, and the numerous jurisdictions involved in wildland fire
management and suppression, present challenges in managing wildland
fire, but also present many opportunities. Effective wildland fire manage-
ment actions can be undertaken to reduce the severity of fires within the
WUI and within the District’s ecosystems and watersheds, when fires
inevitably occur. Additionally, active management can achieve conditions
suitable for the reintroduction of fire into many ecosystems, an ecological
function that has been absent, except under atypically severe conditions,
for most of the past century. Prescribed fire is a powerful tool that not only
has ecological benefit, but also significant wildland fire management ben-
efit.
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WILDLAND FIRE MANAGEMENT GOAL,
POLICIES, AND IMPLEMENTATION
MEASURES
Goal WF- Manage District land to reduce the severity of
wildland fire and to reduce the impact of fire sup-
pression activities within District Preserves and
adjacent residential areas; manage habitats to
support fire as a natural occurrence on the land-
scape; and promote District and regional fire man-
agement objectives.
Policy WF-1 Implement necessary fire and fuel management practices to
protect public health and safety, protect natural resources,
and to reduce the impacts of wildland fire.
♦ Prepare wildland fire management plans for District lands that ad-
dress, at a minimum, public safety, District staff and firefighter safety,
District infrastructure including residences and roads, natural resource
protection (particularly special status species), cultural resources,
and vegetation management for fire protection and fire behavior and
hazardous fuels modification.
♦ Identify, with input from responsible fire agencies and neighboring
public agencies, essential roads for wildland fire access. Maintain
designated roads for fire access and patrol purposes, and improve
with surfacing, additional turnouts and safety zones when necessary.
♦ Coordinate with fire agencies and local communities to identify loca-
tions where additional fire infrastructure is desirable and practical (e.g.
hydrants, water tanks, helicopter zones, safety zones, fuel breaks,
consistent with the incident command system (ICS). Work cooper-
atively with these groups to install needed infrastructure.
♦ Work with Cal Fire and other appropriate fire management and regu-
latory agencies to develop and carry out plans that use prescribed
burns to maintain and restore natural systems.
♦ Maintain adequate fire clearance around District structures and facili-
ties. (See FM-5 and WF-4:Measure 5)
♦ Require lessees of District land or structures to maintain fire hazard
reduction measures as directed.
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♦ Prohibit activities that have a high risk of sparking fires during periods
of extreme fire hazard.
♦ Close Preserve areas of particular concern during extreme fire
weather, as appropriate, and increase patrol levels where appropri-
ate.
♦ Seek grant opportunities and partnerships for fuel management and
monitoring projects.
Policy WF-2 Aggressively support the immediate suppression of all un-
planned fires that threaten human life, private property or
public safety.
♦ Respond to wildland and structure fires on District lands in coordina-
tion with responding fire agencies.
♦ Prioritize and prepare Preserve specific wildland fire response plans
that identify appropriate fire suppression activities for District lands in
the event of a wildland fire. Plans should include detailed maps of
infrastructure such as roads, fuel breaks, structures, water sources
(hydrants, water tanks, ponds), as well as sensitive natural and cul-
tural resources to be avoided during fire suppression activities.
♦ Direct bulldozer actions to areas identified in wildland fire response
plans to minimize and reduce ground disturbance, erosion, and reha-
bilitation efforts wherever possible.
♦ Develop guidelines for appropriate rehabilitation measures to address
erosion, revegetation, invasive species, trail and road stability, secu-
rity, public safety, and natural and cultural resources following fires.
Policy WF-3 Work with adjacent landowners and fire agencies to main-
tain adequate fire clearance around qualifying structures.
(See FM-5 and WF-1: Measure 5)
♦ Maintain a permit system that enables adjacent landowners to main-
tain defensible space clearance surrounding homes and other qualify-
ing structures across property boundaries and onto District land as
long as the activity is recommended by the local fire agency and is
consistent with the District’s resource management policies, including
protection of environmentally sensitive habitat.
♦ Work with fire agencies and local governments to develop require-
ments for new development to maintain required fire clearance dis-
tance from District land wherever possible.
Defensible space is the area
adjacent to a structure where
basic wildfire protection
practices are implemented,
providing a key point of
defense for an approaching
wildland fire or area to
escape from a structure fire.
Cal Fire publishes guidelines
for fuel (vegetation)
treatments to create a
perimeter around buildings
and structures in order to
maintain minimum conditions
for firefighters to defend a
property.
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WILDLAND FIRE MANAGEMENT
83
♦ Focus fuel management activities in areas adjacent to development,
essential facilities and improvements, major egress and emergency
routes, essential fuel breaks, and sensitive natural and cultural areas.
♦ Investigate alternative funding sources in conjunction with fire agen-
cies and residential communities within the WUI adjacent to District
Preserves to fund and implement fire hazard reduction projects.
♦ Work with fire agencies and residential communities to ensure that
adequate evacuation routes and vegetation clearance around struc-
tures are maintained on adjacent non-District lands.
♦ Coordinate with fire agencies and local communities to define loca-
tions where community and regional fire protection infrastructure is
desirable and practical.
Policy WF-4 Manage District vegetation communities to reduce the risk
of catastrophic fire and to maintain biological diversity. (See
VM-1 and FM-6)
♦ Promote the restoration and development of late-seral forest com-
munities.
♦ Evaluate the potential to reduce forest fuel loading through the re-
moval of smaller trees to reduce forest floor fuel buildup and ladder
fuels.
♦ Continue to utilize and expand the District’s conservation grazing pro-
gram to reduce grassland fuels, brush encroachment, and encourage
the vigor of native grass and forb species.
♦ Manage forest diseases such as Sudden Oak Death (SOD).
♦ Manage scrub, shrub, and chaparral communities to maintain a mo-
saic of ages and species within strategic management corridors on
roads, ridgetops, and near residential development or other critical in-
frastructure to compartmentalize preserves and reduce fuel loads.
Policy WF-5 Conduct prescribed burns to re-introduce fire into native
ecosystems and maintain natural ecological processes on
District lands.
♦ Continue to utilize fire as a resource management tool to reduce fuels
and reestablish fire for resource benefit where vegetation conditions,
access, and public safety permit. Coordinate with other agencies for
planning and implementation.
Sudden Oak Death mortality
is also a potential concern
within the wildland- urban
interface area, as well as
within other areas of District
Preserves. This concern is
currently being studied by
researchers in conjunction
with District staff. These
studies should provide
additional insight into the
potential fire hazard
associated with SOD
mortality and propose
effective management
options.
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♦ Continue to utilize prescribed fire to reduce and prevent unwanted fire
damage resulting from excessive fuel load and altered plant commu-
nity structure and to control invasive species.
♦ Conduct prescribed burns in an ecologically sound manner which
mimic natural fire regimes, and to promote biodiversity.
♦ Conduct public outreach to recreational users, adjacent landowners
and the general public through mailings, web site postings and press
releases related to the benefits of prescribed fire and other fire man-
agement activities.
Policy WF-6 Foster and maintain interagency fire management partner-
ships.
♦ Annually coordinate with fire management and other resource agen-
cies to discuss pre-fire planning conditions and needs in advance of
the fire season.
♦ Participate in county Fire Safe Councils and Community Wildfire Pro-
tection Plan (CWPP) efforts.
♦ Train with fire agencies and participate in training burns when possi-
ble.
♦ Complete and distribute to fire agencies up-to-date maps of Preserve
infrastructure including existing road network available for wildland fire
management, helicopter landing zones, safety zones, evacuation
routes, and other pertinent information.
Policy WF-7 Conduct research and monitoring to refine fire management
practices.
♦ Monitor pre-project vegetation, soil, erosion, and water quality to es-
tablish baseline conditions for post project analysis.
♦ Monitor post fire and vegetation management projects to assess the
achievement of project objectives and to identify potential impacts to
vegetation, soil, erosion, and water quality.
♦ Conduct monitoring in a manner consistent with other land manage-
ment agencies to obtain comparable data.
♦ Foster relationships with educational institutions, scientists and other
land management professionals to inform District land management
decisions based upon sound, current science, and to create opportu-
nities for continuing research. Seek grants and pursue partnerships
for research and monitoring.
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♦ Integrate wildland fire management into District interpretation and
education programs.
Policy WF-8 Wildland Fire management actions on District lands in the
Coastside Protection Area will be in accordance with the pol-
icies established in the Service Plan for the San Mateo
Coastal Annexation Area.
♦ In consultation with the County of San Mateo Environmental Services
Department and fire agencies, determine whether the construction of
dry hydrants on specific lands acquired is feasible in order to provide
additional remote area water supplies for fire suppression activities
♦ Select native plant materials and/or seed mixes utilized at staging ar-
eas or along trails for their low maintenance and drought and fire re-
sistant characteristics to minimize additional fuel available to wildland
fires to the extent feasible.
♦ Where compatible with other trail characteristics, planners shall locate
trail alignments and access points to allow trails to also serve as emer-
gency access routes for patrol or emergency medical transport.
Where feasible for more remote areas, emergency helicopter landing
sites shall be provided.
♦ Coordinate with appropriate agencies, such as the County and Cal
Fire to formalize mutual aid agreements.
♦ Consult with fire agencies in developing site-specific fuel modifica-
tion and management programs for specific lands acquired as part of
its Use and Management planning process, in addition to continuing
the current District fuel management practices.
♦ Prohibit smoking, firearms, fireworks and off-road vehicle use and limit
trail use, picnicking, and camping to designated activities.
♦ Develop and maintain staging areas and trail heads in accordance
with the wildland fire hazard mitigation measures established in the
Service Plan for the Coastside Protection Area.
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CLIMATE CHANGE
86
XVI. CLIMATE CHANGE
BACKGROUND
Climate change is directly affecting temperatures, precipitation, weather
patterns, species ranges, wildfire risk, and sea levels, impacting the Dis-
trict’s ability to meet its resource management goals. Human activities that
put excess greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, such as burning fos-
sil fuels for transportation and energy generation, are the leading cause of
climate change.
Impacts on Natural Systems
According to the National Park Service, the wide range of climate change
impacts in the Bay Area include the following:
♦ Increase in average annual temperatures of 1.2 degrees Celsius (2.2
degrees Fahrenheit) between 1960 and 2010
♦ Northern shifts in winter bird ranges of 0.5 kilometers (0.3 miles) per
year between 1975 and 2004
♦ Upward shifts in elevation for 12 percent of endemic species and 27
percent of non-native species between the periods of 1895-1970 and
1971-2009
♦ Sea level rise of 22 centimeters (9 inches) between 1854 and 2016
♦ Decrease in coastal fog by 33 percent between the periods of 1901-
1925 and 1951-2008
♦ Increase in heavy storms by 25 percent between the periods of 1901-
1960 and 1991-2000
♦ Human-caused climate change accounted for 10-20% of the 2012-
2014 drought
♦ Climate was the dominant factor controlling the extent of wildfire burn
areas between 1916 and 2003, even during periods of active fire sup-
pression
Greenhouse gases, such as
carbon dioxide, methane,
and nitrous oxide, contribute
to the atmospheric warming
“greenhouse effect” by
absorbing infrared radiation.
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The Carbon Cycle
The carbon cycle is a natural process by which carbon moves between
different stores or reservoirs, such as the atmosphere, oceans, sedimen-
tary rocks, soils, and plant biomass. When burning fossil fuels, humans
move a massive amount of carbon from the ground to the atmosphere,
putting the carbon cycle out of balance and causing climate change. The
two key approaches to solving climate change are 1) to avoid adding any
more carbon to the atmospheric store and 2) to move carbon from the
atmospheric store to safer stores, such as plant biomass and soils. Hu-
mans can avoid adding more carbon to the atmospheric store by reducing
greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuels and preventing the release of
carbon in plants and soils. Humans can facilitate the movement of carbon
from the atmosphere into plant biomass and soils, also known as carbon
sequestration, through land conservation and management. The District
stewards over 63,000 acres of open space lands, including redwood for-
ests, which store large amounts of carbon in trees, other vegetation, and
soils.
CLIMATE CHANGE GOAL, POLICIES, AND
IMPLEMENTATION MEASURES
Goal CC- Reduce agency-generated greenhouse gas emis-
sions, increase carbon sequestration, and pro-
mote resilience to climate change impacts
Policy CC-1 Reduce administrative greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions
20% below 2016 baseline by 2022, 40% below 2016 base-
line by 2030, and 80% below 2016 baseline by 2050, in line
with the State of California’s GHG reduction goals.
♦ Implement Climate Action Plan strategies to reduce or offset adminis-
trative GHG emissions from vehicles, equipment, facilities, employee
commuting, and tenant residences.
♦ Periodically update GHG Inventory and track GHG reduction.
♦ Improve GHG Inventory data quality and tracking systems.
♦ Consider GHG emissions related to all policies, plans, decisions, and
management practices, in addition to other factors.
Carbon sequestration is the
process by which carbon is
removed from the
atmosphere and stored
elsewhere, such as in plants
and soils.
The State of California set a
goal to reduce GHG
emissions 40% below 1990
baseline levels by 2030 and
80% by 2050 (AB 32). The
District first inventoried GHG
emissions in 2016 so that is
the baseline for the District’s
reduction goals.
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♦ Evaluate the full life-cycle footprint of equipment, services, and sup-
plies, and choose lower impact/responsible services and supplies.
♦ Develop sustainability guidelines for facilities, operations, projects,
and events.
Policy CC-2 Reduce non-administrative GHG emissions related to Dis-
trict activities, such as visitor transportation and livestock.
♦ Implement Climate Action Plan strategies to reduce or offset GHG
emissions from visitor transportation to preserves.
♦ Implement Climate Action Plan strategies to reduce or offset GHG
emissions from livestock, and research additional techniques or tech-
nologies.
♦ Where agricultural sustainability is not a leading factor, select appro-
priate livestock species to accomplish vegetation management objec-
tives (See GM-4).
Policy CC-3 Increase carbon sequestration in vegetation and soils and
minimize carbon release from wildfire.
♦ Manage conifer forests to sustain and encourage the development of
late-seral habitat conditions (FM-4). Evaluate the potential to reduce
forest fuel loading through the removal of smaller trees to reduce fuel
buildup and ladder fuels (See FM-5).
♦ Manage vegetation communities to reduce the risk of catastrophic fire
and to maintain biological diversity (WF-4). Conduct prescribed burns
to re-introduce fire into native ecosystems and maintain natural eco-
logical processes on District lands (See WF-5).
♦ Evaluate, study, and implement additional land management strate-
gies to increase carbon sequestration in vegetation and soils.
♦ Improve data on carbon sequestration in District lands.
♦ Evaluate opportunities to create and sell carbon offsets on the Califor-
nia Cap and Trade market or other voluntary offset markets.
Policy CC-4 Prepare for climate change impacts and promote resilience
for both natural and built environments.
♦ Prioritize ecosystem function, resilience, and ecological diversity fo-
cused on multiple species benefits, rather than aiming to prevent eco-
logical change or return to past conditions.
District GHG emissions are
divided into administrative
emissions, which come
directly from District
operations such as vehicles
and facilities, and non-
administrative emissions,
which are related to District
activities but the District has
less control over. A
numerical GHG reduction
goal is set only for
administrative emissions.
Resilience is the capacity of
natural and human
communities to withstand
and bounce back from
climate stress and
hazardous events.
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♦ Incorporate climate change impacts on natural resources such as spe-
cies range and phenology changes into restoration and monitoring ac-
tivities. Utilize an adaptive management framework to adjust resource
management methods and priorities as impacts start to occur and cli-
mate change knowledge and response options continue to increase
(See GM-3).
♦ Support ecological functions and ecosystem services that protect the
built environment from climate change impacts, such as flooding and
increased wildland fire frequency and intensity.
♦ Incorporate climate change impacts to infrastructure, such as flooding,
drought, and sea level rise, into planning, project design, and other
relevant activities.
♦ Evaluate, study, and implement additional land management strate-
gies to promote ecosystem resilience.
Policy CC-5 Lead by example and support state, regional, and commu-
nity-scale action on reducing climate change impacts to eco-
system health and biodiversity, and increasing ecosystem
resilience.
♦ Support and participate in regional climate change initiatives and bur-
geoning community of practice. Foster partnerships to respond to cli-
mate change collaboratively, and seek opportunities to share infor-
mation with other agencies.
♦ Support and influence local and state climate change policies that are
protective of ecosystem health and biodiversity. Seek grant opportu-
nities to fund implementation of GHG reduction, carbon sequestration,
and natural resource resilience efforts.
♦ Increase public awareness of climate change impacts and solutions
the District is pursuing through education and outreach. Incorporate
climate change into interpretive programming, facilities, and materials
(See PI-1).
♦ Coordinate and cooperate with institutions, agencies, organizations,
and individuals conducting research on climate change and resource
management (See RC-2).
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GLOSSARY
90
XVII. GLOSSARY
Agricultural Infrastructure – Improvements made to a property to sup-
port an agricultural operation such as fencing, roads, water supply sys-
tems and structures. (Grazing Management)
Anadromous – Fish, such as steelhead trout, that return from the open
ocean as adults to freshwater streams to breed. (Water Resources, Habi-
tat Connectivity)
Archaeological site – A site in which physical evidence of past prehistoric
or historic human activity has been preserved. (Cultural Resources)
Artifacts – Objects created by humans or modified by human activity.
(Cultural Resources)
Barrier – An impediment to migration, genetic exchange, dispersal, or
other essential movement of an organism. Barriers may be of natural or
human-made origin. (Habitat Connectivity)
Best Management Practices (BMPs) – District developed standard prac-
tices that identify the preferred manner in which an activity is to be per-
formed in order to be protective of both human health and the environ-
ment. (Vegetation Management, Integrated Pest Management, Water Re-
sources, Grazing Management, Forest Management)
Biodiversity – Describes the natural variety and abundance of plants and
animals and the environments in which they live. U.S. Congressional Bi-
odiversity Act, 1990 HR1268, defines biodiversity as “The full range of va-
riety and variability within and among living organisms, and the ecological
complexes in which they occur, and encompass ecosystem or community
diversity, species diversity and genetic diversity.” (Vegetation Manage-
ment, Integrated Pest Management, Water Resources, Forest Manage-
ment, Ecological Succession, Habitat Connectivity, Wildland Fire)
Biological Legacies – The retention of forest components that were orig-
inally present within the forest, prior to large scale disturbance such as fire,
or timber harvesting. Notable “legacy” components include: large live
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trees (especially old growth) with mosses and lichen growth within the can-
opy, hollow cavities, and complex large branch structure; large pieces of
wood on the forest floor; intact forest soil and associated fungi and mi-
crobes. These forest components have a profound influence on recovering
forest ecosystems and are important considerations for habitat reconnec-
tion and restoration. (Forest Management)
Boundary – The area of border between habitat patches or vegetation
types; a zone comprised of edges of adjacent ecosystems or land types.
(Habitat Connectivity)
Carbon Sequestration – The process by which carbon is removed from
the atmosphere and stored elsewhere, such as in plants and soils. (Cli-
mate Change)
Chaparral – Shrub and small tree dominated landscapes composed of
species with small, thick, evergreen, leathery leaves that often grow dense
and tangled. (Vegetation Management, Ecological Succession, Habitat
Connectivity, Wildland Fire)
Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP) – The Healthy Forests
Restoration Act (HFRA), passed in 2003 by the federal government, es-
tablished statutory incentives for the US Forest Service (USFS) and the
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to give consideration to the priorities
of local communities as they develop and implement forest management
and hazardous fuel reduction projects. In order for a community to take
full advantage of this federal assistance, a community must first prepare a
CWPP. CWPPs may address issues such as wildfire response, hazard
mitigation, community preparedness, or structure protection—or all of the
above. (Wildland Fire)
Compartmentalize – Using fire management techniques such as instal-
lation of shaded fuel breaks, or defensible space surrounding homes to
separate a potentially large scale wildland fire into distinct smaller man-
agement areas separated by vegetation type, fuel loading, access, or ter-
rain into pre-designated fire management units. (Wildland Fire)
Conifer, Coniferous – Cone bearing trees with needles or scale-like
leaves, stay green throughout the year in California. Examples include:
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92
coast redwood, Douglas fir, pine trees, and cypresses. Conifers are also
referred to as softwood. (Forest Management, Ecological Succession)
Contamination – Human-made waste that has polluted the environment
making it unfit or unsafe. (Water Resources, Geology and Soils)
Core – The portion of an ecosystem or habitat where effects of the sur-
rounding area are limited. (Habitat Connectivity)
Cultural Landscape – A landscape modified by past human activity or
otherwise holding historical or prehistoric cultural importance. (Cultural
Resources, Public Interpretation, Wildland Fire)
Cultural Resource – A structure, landscape feature, archaeological site,
or other artifact of human activity in the past during prehistoric or historic
periods. (Cultural Resources)
Cultural Resource Inventory – The District’s inventory of cultural re-
sources on District preserves. Information in this inventory may include
site locations, descriptions, and photographs, as well as historical infor-
mation on individual sites and preserves. (Cultural Resources)
Data Recovery – Research and recording techniques such as the exca-
vation of archaeological sites or recording of architectural features prior to
site disturbance. Data recovery is a common mitigation measure for pro-
jects that may have a substantial adverse impact on a significant cultural
resource. (Cultural Resources)
Defensible Space – Defensible space is the area adjacent to a structure
where basic wildfire protection practices are implemented, providing a key
point of defense for an approaching wildland fire or area to escape from a
structure fire. The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection
(Cal Fire) publishes guidelines for fuel (vegetation) treatments to create a
perimeter around buildings and structures in order to maintain minimum
conditions for firefighters to defend a property. (Wildland Fire)
Disturbance (Ecological Disturbance) – The disruption of an ecosys-
tem's structure and function, generally with effects that last for time periods
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longer than a single seasonal growing cycle for vegetation. (Wildlife Man-
agement, Integrated Pest Management, Water Resources, Geology and
Soils, Ecological Succession)
Disturbance-dependent – Species that require disturbance to maintain
habitat conditions suitable for reproduction and establishment. (Ecological
Succession)
Ecological Succession – The sequential development of plant and ani-
mal communities following disturbance. (Ecological Succession)
Ecosystem – An area within the natural environment in which physical
(abiotic) factors of the environment, such as rocks and soil, function to-
gether along with interdependent (biotic) organisms, such as plants and
animals, within the same habitat. (Vegetation Management, Integrated
Pest Management, Water Resources, Grazing Management, Forest Man-
agement, Ecological Succession, Habitat Connectivity, Wildland Fire)
Ecosystem Function – The interaction(s) or ecological processes that
exists between organisms with one another and the physical environment,
such as nutrient cycling, disturbance, soil development, water budgeting,
and flammability. (Vegetation Management, Water Resources, Forest
Management, Wildland Fire)
Edge – The portion of an ecosystem or habitat near its perimeter, where
influences of the surroundings prevent development of interior/core-area
environmental conditions. (Habitat Connectivity)
Enhancement – The process of altering a habitat to provide specific eco-
system functions. (Water Resources, Grazing Management, ecological
Succession, Habitat Connectivity)
Enhance – To increase or improve a habitat in value or quality. (Vegeta-
tion Management, Wildlife Management, Water Resources, Grazing Man-
agement, Forest Management, Ecological Succession, Habitat Connectiv-
ity)
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Environmental Education – A learning process that increases people’s
knowledge and awareness about the environment and associated chal-
lenges, develops the necessary skills and expertise to address the chal-
lenges, and fosters attitudes, motivations, and commitments to make in-
formed decisions and take responsible action. (Public Interpretation)
Exotic – Species that were not present in the Santa Cruz Mountains re-
gion of California prior to the large scale development of the American
continent by European humans prior to 1769. (Grazing Management)
Extreme Fire Hazard/Weather – The National Weather Service, operat-
ing through cooperative agreement with the State of California, issues Red
Flag Warnings during conditions of extreme fire weather. This alert is used
by fire agencies to plan staffing levels and preparedness and set public
use restrictions (such as campfires or the use of spark producing equip-
ment). (Wildland Fire)
Five-Strand Barbwire Fencing – Fencing typically used in ranching op-
erations to confine livestock to established areas, constructed of five
evenly spaced rows of barbwire stretched between posts comprised of
wood or metal. (Grazing Management)
Flora – The plants of a particular region or period. (Grazing Management)
Fire Agencies – Agencies with jurisdiction to respond to wildland and
structure fires on District lands and that may work in cooperation with the
District in planning site-specific fuel and wildland fire management prac-
tices and in conducting training in fire and fuel management. They can
include Cal Fire as well as local, regional, city, county and special district
fire agencies. (Wildland Fire, Forest Management)
Fire Behavior – The manner in which a fire reacts to fuel, weather, topog-
raphy, or fire suppression efforts. (Wildland Fire)
Fire Regime – The characteristic frequency, extent, intensity, severity,
and seasonality of fires within an ecosystem. (Wildland Fire)
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Fire Safe Councils – The Fire Safe Council is a coalition of public and
private organizations with a common, shared interest in reducing losses
from wildfires. (Wildland Fire)
Fire Suppression – Human efforts connected with fire-extinguishing op-
erations, such as use of tools, engines, water or aircraft, or installation of
fuel breaks, or removal of fuels surrounding homes or other structures.
(Vegetation Management, Forest Management, Wildland Fire)
Food Web – The relationships between interconnected plants and ani-
mals in an ecosystem pertaining to how each organism gets their food and
meets energy requirements. (Integrated Pest Management)
Forbs – A broad-leaved herb other than a grass, especially one growing
in a field, prairie, or meadow. (Grazing Management, Wildland Fire)
Forest – Habitats dominated by tree species with a continuous or nearly
continuous canopy covering substantial portions of the landscape. (Vege-
tation Management, Wildlife Management, Forest Management, Ecologi-
cal Succession, Wildland Fire)
Forest Conditions – A characterization of forest age, structural complex-
ity (height, spacing, multiple canopy levels), species composition, habitat
suitability, biological legacies, fuel loads, diseases or pathogens, regener-
ation, and level of disturbance. (Forest Management)
Forest Management – The active stewardship of a forest or stand to
achieve a desired future condition. (Forest Management)
Fuel – Combustible vegetation including live or dead forbs, shrubs,
branches, trees, vines etc. (Vegetation Management, Grazing Manage-
ment, Forest Management, Wildland Fire)
Fuel Break – A strip of land on which vegetation has been removed, re-
duced, thinned, or otherwise modified so that a fire burning into or up to it
can be more readily controlled (Wildland Fire)
Fuel Load – The oven-dry weight of fuel per unit area. (Wildland Fire)
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Fuel Modification – Breaking up, thinning, reducing, or otherwise modi-
fying continuous fuels to prevent or reduce the spread of a wildfire.
(Wildland Fire)
Fuel Wood – Woody vegetation or wood products, primarily used as fuel
for heating, cooking, or industry. (Forest Management)
GIS (Geographic Information System) – A combined database and
mapping system used for the storage, retrieval, and analysis of geographic
data. (Integrated Pest Management, Research and Collection)
GIS Database – A database that contains information about the location
of real-world features and the characteristics of those features. (Integrated
Pest Management, Research and Collection)
Geologic Hazards – Hazards created by fault zones, landslide prone ar-
eas, and flood zones. (Geology and Soils)
Greenhouse Gases – Gases such as carbon dioxide, methane, and ni-
trous oxide that contribute to the atmospheric warming “greenhouse effect”
by absorbing infrared radiation. (Climate Change)
Habitat – the combination of living and non-living factors that surround
and potentially influence an organism; or species’ typical environment.
(Vegetation Management, Wildlife Management, Integrated Pest Manage-
ment, Water Resources, Scenic and Aesthetic, Grazing Management,
Forest Management, Ecological Succession, Habitat Connectivity,
Wildland Fire)
Habitat Fragmentation – the breaking up of a previously continuous hab-
itat (or ecosystem) into spatially separated and smaller pieces. (Wildlife
Management, Forest Management)
Hardwood – Broadleaf trees that usually produce flowers that ripen into
fruits containing seeds. Local examples include: numerous oak species,
madrone, tanoak, willows, and western sycamore. (Forest Management,
Wildland Fire)
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Hazard Mitigation – action taken to reduce or eliminate long-term risk to
people and their property from hazards such as proximity of flammable
vegetation, dead or dying tree limbs, or pollution or contamination in close
proximity to homes or public facilities. (Wildland Fire)
High Priority District Forests – Forests that have been identified through
inventories or other analysis as priority areas for forest management. Pri-
ority can be based on different management objectives such as: restoring
degraded habitat, reconnecting late-seral habitat, and/or wildland- urban
interface fire concerns. (Forest Management)
Historic – Dating from periods post-dating the use of written historical
documents. In the American West, the historic period is generally consid-
ered to refer to all periods after European exploration and colonization of
the region. (Water Resources, Scenic and Aesthetic, Cultural Resources,
Forest Management, Ecological Succession, Wildland Fire)
Historical Rehabilitation – “The act or process of making possible a com-
patible use for a property through repair, alterations and additions while
preserving those portions or features which convey its historical, cultural,
or architectural values.” (Definition from Secretary of the Interior’s Stand-
ards for Treatment of Historic Properties) (Cultural Resources)
Host – A plant or animal that provides sustenance for another organism.
(Integrated Pest Management)
Inbreeding Depression – The decrease in growth, survival and fertility of
an individual often observed following mating among relatives or self-fer-
tilization (in plants). (Wildlife Management)
Incident Command System (ICS) – a standardized, on-scene, all-hazard
incident management concept. ICS allows its users to adopt an integrated
organizational structure to match the complexities and demands of single
or multiple incidents without being hindered by jurisdictional boundaries.
(Wildland Fire)
In Situ – “In place;” at the site of original deposition or discovery. (Cultural
Resources)
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GLOSSARY
98
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) – A long-term strategy that specifi-
cally reviews alternatives and monitors conditions to effectively control a
target pest with minimum impact to human health, the environment, and
non-target organisms. (Integrated Pest Management)
Interpretation – A communication method that aims to reveal meanings,
connections, and relationships by firsthand experience, and by illustrative
media. (Cultural Resources, Public Interpretation, Forest Management,
Wildland Fire)
Interpretive Systems Plan (ISP) – An overarching analysis of the inter-
pretive opportunities that exist throughout an agency’s parks or preserves.
(Public Interpretation)
Invasive Species – animal or plant species that take over sufficiently large
areas to reduce biodiversity. (Integrated Pest Management, Grazing Man-
agement, Ecological Succession, Habitat Connectivity, Wildland Fire)
Ladder Fuels – Live or dead vegetation that allows a fire to ascend from
low lying vegetation such as forbs and grasses, into the upper or upper-
most vegetation such as taller shrubs and trees. Common fuel ladders in-
clude tall grasses, shrubs, and tree branches, both living and dead. (Forest
Management, Wildland Fire)
Late-Seral – Stage of forest development dominated by large mature
trees. Initial age development of this stage for redwood and Douglas-fir
forests is generally considered to occur between 80- and 300 years. Trees
and forest begin to develop some characteristics associated with old
growth including large decadent trees, snags and large down logs. (Forest
Management, Wildland Fire)
Late-Successional – Same as late-seral. (Forest Management)
Livestock – The horses, cattle, sheep, and other useful animals kept or
raised on a farm or ranch. (Integrated Pest Management, Geology and
Soils, Grazing Management, Forest Management, Ecological Succession,
Wildland Fire)
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Native – Those elements of the natural world occurring within an ecosys-
tem prior to disturbance from an outside event. (Vegetation Management,
Wildlife Management, Integrated Pest Management, Water Resources,
Geology and Soils, Scenic and Aesthetic, Cultural Resources, Research
and Collection, Grazing Management, Ecological Succession, Habitat
Connectivity, Wildland Fire)
Natural – Plant, animal, and microorganism life, native materials, and eco-
system processes that make up the physical world. (Vegetation Manage-
ment, Wildlife Management, Integrated Pest Management, Water Re-
sources, Geology and Soils, Scenic and Aesthetic, Cultural Resources,
Research and Collection, Public Interpretation, Grazing Management,
Forest Management, Ecological Succession, Habitat Connectivity,
Wildland Fire)
Non-Native – Species which moved into, or were introduced into, pre-
serve environments as a direct or indirect result of human activities. (Veg-
etation Management, Wildlife Management, Integrated Pest Management,
Geology and Soils, Scenic and Aesthetic, Grazing Management, Ecologi-
cal Succession, Wildland Fire)
Non-Target Organisms – those plants and animals that are not intention-
ally targeted by a pest management strategy in order to spare benign and
often beneficial species. (Integrated Pest Management)
Northwest Information Center – A clearing house for historical and ar-
chaeological information associated with the California Historical Re-
sources Information System, which houses historical documents, site re-
ports and other research pertaining to cultural resources in Northwest Cal-
ifornia. (Cultural Resources)
Old Growth – Stand or residual (uncut) trees in excess of 200 years old,
often characterized by very large trees, large plated bark, broken, dead or
forked tops, with a prevalence of mosses and lichens on large branches
within the canopy. Old growth stands also typically include large snags
and large downed logs. (Forest Management, Wildland Fire)
Open Space – Land and water areas that remain in a natural state and
are minimally developed, and may include compatible agriculture uses.
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100
(Wildlife Management, Water Resources, Geology and Soils, Scenic and
Aesthetic, Cultural Resources, Public Interpretation, Grazing Manage-
ment, Forest Management, Ecological Succession, Habitat Connectivity,
Wildland Fire)
Outreach – The communication of the District’s mission and goals to a
wide variety of audiences usually conducted away from the office or pre-
serves. (Integrated Pest Management, Public Interpretation, Forest Man-
agement, Wildland Fire)
Patch – A relatively homogenous type of habitat that is spatially separated
from other similar habitat and differs from its surroundings. (Habitat Con-
nectivity)
Pathogen – A disease causing organism. (Vegetation Management, For-
est Management)
Performance Measure(s) – Parameter(s) used to measure project suc-
cess tied to project goals and objectives.
Pesticides – A broad term used to describe any material (natural, organic,
or synthetic) used to control or prevent pests including herbicides (weed
or plant killers), insecticides (insect killers), and rodenticides (rodent kill-
ers). (Integrated Pest Management)
Pests – Animals or plants that proliferate beyond natural control and in-
terfere with the natural processes which would otherwise occur on open
space lands. (Integrated Pest Management, Forest Management,
Wildland Fire)
Plant Community – A group of plants growing in an interrelated manner
on a particular site. (Vegetation Management, Integrated Pest Manage-
ment, Ecological Succession, Wildland Fire)
Predation – a biological interaction where a predator (an organism that is
hunting or browsing) feeds on its prey (the organism that is hunted or con-
sumed). (Integrated Pest Management, Wildlife Management, Habitat
Connectivity)
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Prehistoric – Dating from periods of human activity prior to the use of
written history. In the American West, prehistory generally refers to all
periods before European colonization of the region. (Cultural Resources)
Prescribed Fire – Fire applied to wildland ecosystems under specified
fuel and weather conditions to accomplish predetermined resource man-
agement objective such as regeneration of sensitive species in a fire-
adapted plant community. (Wildland Fire)
Programming – The regularly scheduled organized, topic-specific
presentations or other delivery of information, including community out-
reach, education, interpretation, and docent led activities, or other special
events. (Public Interpretation)
Residual Dry Matter (RDM) – A measure of the amount of vegetation left
on the ground, typically measured at the end of the summer or fall. Ap-
propriate levels of RDM strive to minimize thatch, which can inhibit new
plant growth, while maintaining adequate levels of vegetation to prohibit
soil erosion. (Grazing Management)
Resilience – The capacity of natural and human communities to withstand
and bounce back from climate stress and hazardous events. (Climate
Change)
Resource Integrity – The extent to which character-defining features of a
resource or its research potential remain intact. (Cultural Resources)
Resource Management – Management of both natural and cultural re-
sources. Natural resource management generally consists of protecting,
restoring, enhancing and monitoring native vegetation and wildlife, and
monitoring and protecting the quality of geological and hydrological condi-
tions. Cultural resource management consists of identifying and evaluat-
ing archeological sites and cultural landscapes. (Vegetation Management,
Geology and Soils, Research and Collection, Public Interpretation, Graz-
ing Management, Forest Management, Wildland Fire)
Resources – Plants, animals, water, soil, terrain, geologic formations, his-
toric, scenic, and cultural features. (Vegetation Management, Wildlife
Management, Integrated Pest Management, Water Resources, Geology
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102
and Soils, Scenic and Aesthetic, Cultural Resources, Research and Col-
lection, Public Interpretation, Grazing Management, Forest Management,
Habitat Connectivity, Wildland Fire)
Restoration – The process of returning land that has been degraded and
disturbed into functional habitat. (Vegetation Management, Integrated
Pest Management, Water Resources, Research and Collection, Forest
Management, Wildland Fire)
Restore – To bring back to or put back into a former or original state.
(Vegetation Management, Geology and Soils, Public Interpretation, Graz-
ing Management, Forest Management, Ecological Succession, Habitat
Connectivity, Wildland Fire)
Revegetation – The process of replacing existing vegetation on a site with
desired vegetation. (Vegetation Management, Geology and Soils,
Wildland Fire)
Riparian – Terrestrial environments adjacent to lakes, streams, springs
and estuaries where transported surface and subsurface fresh water pro-
vides soil moisture for vegetation. (Wildlife Management, Water Re-
sources, Geology and Soils, Forest Management, Habitat Connectivity)
Significance – A measure of the importance of an archaeological or his-
torical resource. The threshold of significance determines eligibility for
state and national registers and whether a cultural resource must be con-
sidered in NEPA and CEQA documents related to a project. The criteria
detailed in CEQA by which significance (See Appendix A) is determined
differ for historic and archaeological resources but include the resource’s
age, integrity, association with important individuals or trends in local his-
tory, and potential to provide important information about the past. (Cul-
tural Resources)
Snag – A standing dead or partially dead tree, important wildlife habitat for
woodpeckers and other cavity nesting birds, and small mammals. (Wildlife
Management, Forest Management)
Soil – Natural material that covers much of the earth’s surface; consisting
of rock and mineral particles often mixed with organic matter. (Vegetation
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Management, Wildlife Management, Integrated Pest Management, Water
Resources, Grazing Management, Forest Management, Habitat Connec-
tivity, Wildland Fire)
Special Status – Species that are state or federally listed as threatened,
rare, endangered, species of special concern, candidate species or those
plant species listed by the California Native Plant Society. (Vegetation
Management, Wildlife Management, Water Resources, Forest Manage-
ment, Ecological Succession, Habitat Connectivity, Wildland Fire)
Stand – An aggregation of trees occupying a specific area, similar in age,
size, arrangement and composition, that is distinguishable from the forest
in adjoining areas. (Forest Management)
Target Pests – Plant or animal species that have a negative impact on
other organisms or the surrounding environment and are targeted for treat-
ment. (Integrated Pest Management)
Ungulate Animals – Hoofed mammals, including ruminants, such as cat-
tle, goats, and sheep, as well as horses, and donkeys. (Grazing Manage-
ment)
Vector – An organism, such as a tick or mosquito, that is able to transport
and transmit a pathogen to a host. (Integrated Pest Management)
Vegetation Management – The maintenance, establishment, or restora-
tion of target vegetation that meets a preserve's management objectives.
(Vegetation Management, Grazing Management, Wildland Fire)
Watercourse – A natural or artificial channel through which water flows.
(Water Resources, Geology and Soils, Habitat Connectivity)
Waters – Areas of standing water, seasonal and permanent, such as lakes
and ponds, as well as underground aquifers. (Water Resources)
Water Quality – The chemical, physical, and biological characteristics of
water. Important issues related to forest management include water tem-
perature, nutrients, and sediment inputs. (Wildlife Management, Water
Resources, Grazing Management, Forest Management, Wildland Fire)
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104
Watershed – A bounded hydrologic system, where all of the precipitation
that falls drains into a single water feature, often a creek or stream . (Veg-
etation Management, Water Resources, Habitat Connectivity)
Wetlands – Areas that are inundated or saturated by surface or ground
water at a frequency and duration sufficient to support, and that under nor-
mal circumstances do support, a prevalence of vegetation typically
adapted to life in saturated soil conditions (hydrophytes). (Wildlife Man-
agement, Integrated Pest Management, Geology and Soils, Grazing Man-
agement, Ecological Succession, Habitat Connectivity)
Wildland – Land in a natural uncultivated state that forms habitat for plants
and wildlife. (Vegetation Management, Integrated Pest Management, Wa-
ter Resources, Grazing Management, Wildland Fire)
Wildland-Urban Interface – The area where structures and other human
development meet or intermingle with undeveloped wildland. (Wildland
Fire)
Wildlife – A broad term that includes all living animals that have not been
domesticated. (Vegetation Management, Integrated Pest Management,
Water Resources, Scenic and Aesthetic, Research and Collection, Graz-
ing Management, Forest Management, Habitat Connectivity, Wildland
Fire)
Wildlife Corridors – Avenues along which wide-ranging animals can
travel, plants can propagate, genetic interchange can occur, populations
can move in response to environmental changes and natural disasters,
and threatened species can be replenished from other areas. (Habitat
Connectivity)
Woodland – A scattering of trees across a landscape intermixed with a
significant component of another vegetation community, such as grass or
shrub land. (Vegetation Management, Forest Management, Habitat Con-
nectivity, Wildland Fire)
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105
XVIII. REFERENCES
California Department of Fish and Game
California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB)
http://www.dfg.ca.gov/wildlife/nongame/t_e_spp/index.html
Dramstad, W.E., Olson, J.D, and Forman, R.T.T. Landscape Ecology Prin-
ciples in Landscape Architecture and Land-Use Planning. Harvard Univer-
sity Graduate School of Design, Island Press, and the American Society
of Landscape Architects, 1996 (Habitat Connectivity)
Gonzalez, P. Climate Change in the National Parks of the San Francisco
Bay Area, California, USA. National Park Service and University of Cali-
fornia, Berkeley, 2016 (Climate Change)
Jensen, D.B., Torn, M.S., and Harte, J. In Our Own Hands: A Strategy for
Conserving California’s Biodiversity. University of California Press, 1993
(Habitat Connectivity)
Natural Resources Database (NRDB)
http://www.nrdb.org/about.asp
Peck, S. Planning For Biodiversity: Issues and Examples. Island Press,
1998 (Habitat Connectivity)
Townsend, C.R., Harper, J.L., and Begon, M. Essentials of Ecology.
Blackwell Science, 2000 (Habitat Connectivity)
UNESCO, Tbilisi Declaration, 1978 (Cultural Resources)
ATTACHMENT 1
106
APPENDIX A. CEQA CRITERIA
This appendix outlines the CEQA Criteria of Significance for Historic Re-
sources and Archaeological Resources:
HISTORICAL RESOURCES
A historical resource may be considered significant under CEQA if it is
listed on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP), California Reg-
ister for Historical Resources (CRHR), or a local register (e.g., a town or
county register), if it is determined to be eligible for the CRHR by a quali-
fied expert, or if a Lead Agency finds it to be historically significant based
on substantial evidence.
A resource is considered eligible for listing on the CRHR if it meets one of
the following criteria:
♦ Criterion 1: Associated with events that have made a significant con-
tribution to the broad patterns of local or regional history or the cultural
heritage of California or the United States.
♦ Criterion 2: Associated with the lives of persons important to local,
California, or national history.
♦ Criterion 3: Embodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, period,
region, or method of construction or represents the work of a master
or possesses high artistic value.
♦ Criterion 4: Has yielded, or has the potential to yield, information im-
portant to the prehistory or history of the local area, California, or the
nation.
ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESOURCES
In addition to the definition of historical resources above (which can in-
clude archaeological sites), the following criteria for unique archaeological
resources (California Public Resources Code 21083.2) determine signifi-
cance under CEQA:
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107
A resource is considered a unique archaeological resource if it meets one
of the following criteria:
♦ Contains information needed to answer important scientific research
questions and that there is a demonstrable public interest in that infor-
mation.
♦ Has a special and particular quality such as being the oldest of its type
or the best available example of its type.
♦ Is directly associated with a scientifically recognized important prehis-
toric or historic event or person.
ATTACHMENT 1
April 1, 2020
Mr. Eric Sklar, President
California Fish and Game Commission
1416 Ninth Street, Suite1320
Sacramento, CA 95814
RE: Letter of Support for Evaluating the Listing of the Mountain Lion Under the California Endangered
Species Act
Dear President Sklar and Commissioners:
The Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District (Midpen) would like to take this opportunity to offer the
following comments in reference to the proposed listing of mountain lions (Puma concolor) as
Threatened under the California Endangered Species Act (CBD & MLF, 2019). Midpen manages roughly
65,000 acres of prime mountain lion habitat in the Santa Cruz Mountains and is committed to protecting
regional mountain lion populations by preserving habitat, increasing habitat connectivity, minimizing
human-wildlife conflicts, promoting bans and restrictions on rodenticide use and supporting research that
improves our understanding of lion populations, ecology, and behavior throughout our region of
influence.
As detailed in the petition to list, the Santa Cruz Mountain (SCM) lion population shares many of the
same issues as the Santa Ana Mountains (SAM), San Gabriel/San Bernardino Mountains (SGSB) and
Santa Monica (SMM) populations. All of these populations suffer from reduced habitat connectivity, poor
genetic diversity and small effective population sizes (Gustafson et al. 2018). For these reasons Midpen
supports the decision to evaluate the SCM population for inclusion in the proposed Evolutionarily
Significant Unit (ESU). Conversely, there are significant differences between these populations that
should be considered when evaluating the SCM population for listing. Unlike the SAM, SGSB, and
SMM, the SCM have high quality habitat with a surplus lion population that act as a source for
neighboring populations (Dellinger et al. 2019). Seven dispersal aged males from the SCM found their
way into urban areas between 2014 and 2017 and required relocation by CDFW (CDFW data) indicating
that available lion habitat is already occupied by dominant males. The Florida Panther Recovery plan
suggests minimum densities of 2-5 lions per 100 square miles (USFWS, 2008). There are 1,387 square
miles in the Santa Cruz Mountains bioregion. Based on the conservative estimate of 33-66 adult mountain
lions (Gustafson et al. 2018) the SCM reaches the recommended minimum density with 2.38-4.76 lions
per square mile. Considering that sub-adults, juveniles, and cubs are not included in this estimate it is
likely that lion densities are considerably higher in the SCM. This indicates that the SCM population is
not suffering from low population numbers relative to available habitat, but rather a lack of genetic
diversity within the population, limited habitat connectivity between neighboring populations, and
ATTACHMENT 2
increasing human use within available habitat. If lions in the SCM are listed, the recovery criteria should
be designed to reflect this distinction by including a threshold of minimum genetic diversity and
improved connectivity for recovery. Furthermore, robust, multi-year population studies will be required to
determine the effectiveness of additional protections for mountain lions.
As a public land management agency Midpen strives to minimize potential human-wildlife conflicts to
the greatest extent possible. Many of our preserves offer high quality lion habitat that directly abut
densely populated urban areas with considerable potential for interactions between humans and mountain
lions. Midpen has a strong focus on public outreach and education through interpretive signage, on site
tabling, interviews with persons reporting lion activity, and adaptive management of trail access in
response to potential human safety issues. Unfortunately, two of the seventeen verified mountain lion-
human attacks in California since 1986 have occurred on Midpen preserves. The most recent attack took
place on February 16th, 2020 at Rancho San Antonio Open Space Preserve (Rancho). At this preserve,
lion sightings are reported roughly once per month and lions have been seen at all times of the day
throughout all months of the year. As both lion and human populations in the area increase, and human-
lion interactions become more common, lions occupying habitat along the urban interface may become
more likely to exhibit bold behavior around people. Mountain lion attacks, though rare, are a risk to
human safety that cannot be ignored. Furthermore, when attacks do occur, lions are killed in response to
protect human safety. Midpen believes that non-lethal behavioral modification research to keep lions
wary of human activity would be a benefit to mountain lions and to public safety. Midpen is also
interested in studying human recreational use and/or habitat modification to reduce conflict.
In addition to research needs for non-lethal behavioral modifications of mountain lions to increase public
safety where there is high human/mountain lion interactions, there is also a need for research on non-
lethal deterrence methods to reduce livestock predation by mountain lions. In the last 10 years, 42
mountain lions have been lethally removed using depredation permits in Santa Cruz, Santa Clara, and
Santa Cruz counties (CDFW depredation permit data). These three counties encompass the Santa Cruz
Mountains and are all within Midpen’s jurisdiction. This is significant considering the best available
estimate of the number of lions in the Santa Cruz Mountains is 33-66 adult lions (Gustafson et al. 2018).
In addition to legal depredation of lions, instances of poaching are known to occur along the San Mateo
County Coast. In supporting additional protections for mountain lions, non-lethal tools will become
increasingly important as livestock operators look for viable alternatives to reduce conflicts.
In support of ongoing wildlife and livestock protection policy work, Midpen hired Wildlife Conflict
Specialist Dr. Veronica Yovovich to complete a comprehensive literature review detailing all available
wildlife livestock conflict mitigation measures that have been evaluated through scientific research. This
has been attached to this letter as a reference that may prove useful in determining appropriate non-lethal
alternatives for livestock operators dealing with predation issues.
Midpen has worked closely with regional CDFW biologists and wardens in responding to both public
safety issues and depredation caused by mountain lions. In this capacity we have learned that a key issue
facing CDFW is their capacity to respond with existing staffing levels. If the recent decision to extend the
“three-strikes” depredation permit process to cover the entire proposed ESU is to be successful, Midpen
recommends that additional staff be hired to ensure that CDFW has capacity to issue and monitor these
non-lethal permits, as well as to educate ranchers and the public on how to best protect their domestic
animals. In addition, there needs to be more enforcement of existing protections for mountain lions to
ensure that poaching is discouraged to the greatest extent possible. This may require coordinating with
ATTACHMENT 2
ATTACHMENT 2
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District Ranger Operations Manual
Resource Management Policy 12.006
Page 1 of 11
Title: Wildlife Response Protocols 6/30/2020
I. Purpose
To ensure appropriate response to wildlife interactions on District lands that might impact the safety
of visitors, staff, pets or the operations of a District preserve. This protocol shall be followed when
wildlife such as mountain lions, coyotes, bobcats, raccoons, wild pigs, turkeys, venomous snakes or
others display nuisance or aggressive behavior that could endanger the safety of the public or staff.
II. Policy
Multiple agencies have shared roles and responsibilities in addressing wildlife-human interactions and
response on District lands. Staff is responsible to know their responsibilities as well as those of other
agencies. Cooperation is essential to fully meet these responsibilities. See Resource Management
Roles and Responsibilities Section for additional details.
III. Procedure
A. Visitor and Field Services staff shall work with Natural Resources staff to determine
acceptable and unacceptable wildlife behavior to initiate an appropriate response.
Wildlife behavior relevant to humans or their pets can be categorized as acceptable or
unacceptable. Acceptable behavior can be defined as any wildlife-human interaction where
there is no unprovoked aggression from the animal toward the human or their pet.
Unacceptable behavior is where an animal displays unprovoked aggression, repetitive
nuisance acts, or unacceptable levels of injuries to humans or damage to other resources.
1. Examples of acceptable wildlife behavior include:
The animal does not appear to notice human(s) or pet(s)
The animal retreats at the sight of human(s) or pet(s)
The animal postures in response to human and/or pet activity followed by
retreating or no further aggression
The animal remains in place, while humans show no aggression. Animal may
be engaged in other acceptable activity such as hunting, feeding, etc.
The animal shows signs of curiosity while humans and/or their pet show no
aggression
2. Examples of unacceptable wildlife behavior include:
The animal displays unprovoked aggression
The animal remains in high use area for extended period and fails to retreat
when humans are present
The animal exhibits predatory behavior towards humans or pets
The animal continues to disturb, raid, or investigate humans, pets or high use
areas
The animal displays a lack of fear of humans and/or pets by aggressively
approaching, or failing to retreat, when humans take aggressive actions
The animal attacks a human or pet
Invasive animals impacting native wildlife or sensitive habitat
Not every wildlife interaction will easily fit into one of the two behavior patterns listed above
and will have to be judged on the circumstances of that interaction. Investigating staff should
look at each wildlife-human and/or pet interaction for signs that an animal was present and
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Resource Management Policy 12.006
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Title: Wildlife Response Protocols 6/30/2020
posed a threat or displayed little fear of, or an unusual interest in, humans and/or their pets.
Cumulative interactions or context will also be considered. For example: several acceptable
interactions may occur, however their frequency or amount may cause interactions with that
animal or interactions in a particular area to become unacceptable.
3. In some instances, humans may unintentionally provoke unacceptable behavior on
the part of the animal by:
Immediately running away on sighting (especially children), triggering the
chase instinct
Remaining in a location that does not allow the animal an escape route
Approaching an animal that is hunting, feeding, or is with their young
By bringing pets such as leashed dogs into proximity with wildlife
Not looking where they are placing their hands and feet in areas where
snakes or other wildlife may occur
Aggressive actions on the part of humans that would tend to cause an animal to
retreat would include:
Grouping together
Making loud noises, yelling, blowing a whistle, or playing loud music
Throwing objects like stones
Moving toward the animal with a walking stick, bicycle or other large object
B. For wildlife interactions with invasive animals, see also Integrated Pest Management section
XX.005. For sick, injured, diseased, dying or dead wildlife (such as deer carcasses, downed
bats or animals that may require euthanasia), please see section XX.007. If wildlife has an
interaction with domestic animals (pets), see also the domestic animal control section
XX.008. For wildlife livestock interactions, please see the grazing management section
XX.010.
C. Management Actions in response to wildlife interactions:
The District's management actions focus on: 1) maintaining and enhancing natural
communities in which wildlife populations live; 2) providing public information and education
about wildlife behavior and habitats; 3) providing medical response to Preserve users when a
wildlife-human interaction results in injury; and 4) investigating and reporting wildlife-human
(including pet) interactions that occur
Standard approaches for public safety, information dissemination, and response to wildlife-
human and/or pet interactions are described below and the appropriate color-coded mountain
response signage is noted as well. See Section XX.009.
Wildlife interactions fall into five categories escalating from least concern to most concern: 1)
Sighting, 2) Recurrent sightings, 3) Encounter, 4) Incident, 5) Attack.
1. Sighting: A visual observation of an animal (Yellow Signage)
Since many preserves contain good quality wildlife habitat, a sighting is not normally
a cause for management action. Exceptions to this would be instances where the
animal appears to be sick or injured, is invasive, is sighted frequently in close
proximity to high use area or displays some abnormal behavior or condition.
Staff investigates to assess the accuracy of the report
Staff completes an Electronic Wildlife Observation Form as soon as possible
If there is a public safety concern, staff notifies the Visitor Services Manager
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Title: Wildlife Response Protocols 6/30/2020
and Natural Resources Manager or their assigned designee
Confirmed mountain lion and coyote predation events (animal carcass
present or observed predation) shall always be reported using the Electronic
Wildlife Observation Form
If a carcass or portions of a carcass need to be relocated, see the Sick,
Injured, Diseased, Dying or Dead section XX.007 prior to moving the carcass
Staff investigates and reports invasive wildlife (pests) and considers control
options using the District’s Integrated Pest Management Program (see
Section XX.005). Invasive animals not covered by the District’s California
Department of Fish and Wildlife Program shall be handled on a case-by-case
basis as determined by Natural Resources staff in consultation with
applicable agencies
2. Recurring sighting: Repeated sightings of an animal in an area. (Yellow Signage)
Staff investigates report. If possible, obtain animal description detailed
enough to ascertain the identity of specific animals (size, markings, split ear,
limp, etc.)
Staff documents sightings on Electronic Wildlife Observation Form. Form
shall be completed as soon as possible after report is received
Natural Resources staff reviews other reports in order to determine any use
patterns, unusual circumstances or repeated sightings that may not have
been known or documented from independent sightings alone
Staff considers temporary trail closures if a den, kill site or another ongoing
attractant is suspected or confirmed
Confirmed mountain lion and coyote predation events (animal carcass
present or observed predation) shall always be reported using the Electronic
Wildlife Observation Form
If a carcass or portions of a carcass need to be relocated, see the Sick,
Injured, Diseased, Dying or Dead section XX.007 prior to moving the carcass
Recurrent sightings that are problematic or potentially dangerous will be
reported to California Department of Fish and Wildlife
Natural Resources staff informs California Department of Fish and Wildlife of
recurrent sightings that may pose a public safety concern. Notification to
California Department of Fish and Wildlife is species dependent, for example
recurrent mountain lion sightings would be notified, but recurrent rattlesnake
sightings would not.
Comprehensive data for all mountain lion observations is sent to California
Department of Fish and Wildlife on a quarterly to annual basis by Natural
Resources based on staff availability
Staff may consider if marking the animal is possible, especially to determine
if a recurrent sighting is more than one animal and/or to attempt to deter
unacceptable behavior (such as repeated presence in a high use area)
To the level of their training and allowable permit conditions, Visitor Services
and Natural Resources staff may mark the animal using the appropriate
personal protective equipment, tools, and following safety protocols
Staff researches the possibility of making structural changes such as removal
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Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District Ranger Operations Manual
Resource Management Policy 12.006
Page 4 of 11
Title: Wildlife Response Protocols 6/30/2020
of brush, changing a trail location, or modifying/removing potential attractants
As warranted Visitor and Field Services staff will provide educational material
about recurrent wildlife to the public. Visitor Services staff may post signage,
distribute materials or staff outreach events
Natural Resources staff works with Visitor Services and Public Affairs staff to
develop appropriate content and messaging
If warranted, Public Affairs staff will provide outreach using the District
website, newsletter or other articles, social media, or by scheduling or
attending outreach events
Mountain lion or other recurrent wildlife sightings with unacceptable wildlife
behavior at Rancho San Antonio Open Space Preserve require notification
by Visitor Services to Santa Clara County Parks, Hidden Villa, and
neighborhood associations
For all other Preserves, Visitor Services in conjunction with Public Affairs
shall notify applicable neighbors, tenants, local jurisdictions, and agencies as
deemed necessary
3. Encounter: An unexpected direct meeting between a human and wildlife without
incident. The animal may display acceptable or unacceptable behavior. (Orange
signage)
Staff investigates report. If possible, obtain animal description detailed
enough to ascertain the identity of specific animals (size, markings, split ear,
limp, etc.)
Staff completes an Electronic Wildlife Observation Form
Staff may call Natural Resources wildlife staff if more immediate review is
requested
Natural Resources staff will determine if animal behavior is acceptable or
unacceptable from witness statements and investigation of the scene, with
attention to if the animal demonstrated a lack of fear towards humans or
pets. Special attention should be paid to the description of the animal and its
behavior toward people or pets especially the following:
Who initiated the encounter, wildlife, humans or pets?
Was the animal feeding, with young, or appear to be cornered?
What attempts were made to scare off the animal?
What attempts were made to lure or feed the animal?
Did the animal follow, chase, stalk, growl or hiss at the person or
their pet?
What was the appearance of the animal (aggressive posture, ears
pinned, crouching, sniffing ground)?
Typical acceptable and unacceptable behaviors are described in Section A.
above
Natural Resources staff reviews other reports in order to determine any
noticeable patterns or increasing wildlife behavior indicating public safety
concerns
As warranted notification up the Visitor Services chain of command should
happen next followed by notification of any staff that may work in the affected
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Title: Wildlife Response Protocols 6/30/2020
area including all field staff
Area Superintendents or the Visitor Services Manager will notify necessary
department managers and the general manager’s office as necessary
Visitor Services and Natural Resources staff consider temporary trail
closures if a den, kill site or another ongoing attractant is suspected or
confirmed
Confirmed mountain lion and coyote predation events (animal carcass
present or observed predation) shall always be reported using the Electronic
Wildlife Observation Form
If a carcass or portions of a carcass need to be relocated, see the Sick,
Injured, Diseased, Dying or Dead section XX.007 prior to moving the carcass
To the level of their training and allowable permit conditions, Visitor Services
and Natural Resources staff may consider marking the animal if possible, to
determine if more than one animal is present and/or to attempt to deter
unacceptable behavior
Visitor and field services staff research the possibility of making structural
changes such as removal of brush and or food sources, changing a trail
location, or modifying/removing other potential attractant(s)
Natural Resources Department staff will notify California Department of Fish
and Wildlife of mountain lion or other aggressive animal encounters. Visitor
Services supervisory staff may notify California Department of Fish and
Wildlife if Natural Resources staff are unavailable and notification is
immediately warranted
Visitor Services Staff posts “Area Closed” signs for a confirmed encounter
with animal displaying unacceptable behavior that poses a potential future
public safety risk
Caution signs will be posted following an Area Closure for a length of time to
be determined by the Area Superintendent and the Natural Resources
Manager or assigned designee
Signs shall be posted at all designated exterior access points to any preserve
within a reasonable distance of the encounter or at designated trail locations
when a portion of the preserve is closed. This may result in posting signs at
multiple Preserves and/or contacting adjacent landowners for additional
posting considerations
The Area Closed Signs will be replaced by “Caution” signs for a period of two
(2) weeks from the date the area was closed or as deemed safe by California
Department of Fish and Wildlife (if applicable) and/or Natural Resources staff
If a portion of the preserve is closed, Caution signs should be posted at all
the designated entrances to that preserve which are not posted closed.
For more guidance on placement of signage, see Mountain Lion Posting
Guidelines Section.
Mountain lion or other wildlife-human encounters with unacceptable wildlife
behavior at Rancho San Antonio Open Space Preserve require notification
by Visitor Services to Santa Clara County Parks, Hidden Villa, and
neighborhood associations.
For all other Preserves, Visitor Services in conjunction with Public Affairs
shall notify applicable neighbors, tenants, local jurisdictions, and agencies as
ATTACHMENT 3
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Title: Wildlife Response Protocols 6/30/2020
deemed necessary.
Area superintendent in conjunction with Natural Resources to determine if an
after-action review shall be conducted with all District departments involved
in response to the encounter (case-by-case).
4. Incident: An incident is defined as an event which meets one or more of the
following criteria:
A conflict between human or their domestic animal (pets) and a wild animal
that resulted in an unsafe situation;
The animal displayed unacceptable/abnormal behavior; and the person
involved felt threatened
It is also considered an incident whenever domestic animals (pets) are
attacked
Staff response to an incident:
Staff determines, from witness statements and investigation of the scene, if
the wildlife involved in the incident demonstrated a lack of fear towards
humans, special attention should be paid to the description of the animal and
its behavior toward people, especially the following:
Who initiated the encounter, wildlife, humans, or domestic animals?
Was the wildlife involved in the incident feeding, with young, or
appear to be cornered?
What attempts were made to scare off the animal?
What attempts were made to lure the animal or feed?
Did the animal follow, chase, stalk, growl, hiss, strike or lunge at the
person?
What was the appearance of the animal (aggressive posture, ears
pinned, crouching, sniffing ground)?
Staff notifies Area Superintendent and the Natural Resources Manager or
assigned designee as soon as possible. Visitor Services staff may close the
entire preserve or a portion of the preserve where the incident occurred to
protect public safety. Follow the closure protocols in section D
Other factors to be considered at an incident:
It may be necessary to close and secure the area of the incident and
treat it as a crime scene. This may be necessary to enhance the
chances for tracking and trapping personnel to locate the offending
animal (see closure protocol)
Visitor and Field Services staff may need to notify and work with
California Department of Fish and Wildlife to implement protocol for
incidents and attacks and to strategize for specific response. Pre-
planning is critical since successful tracking (if warranted) is
dependent on a timely response
If the animal has exhibited unprovoked aggression towards a human
and is a threat to public safety, California Department of Fish and
Wildlife may consider removing the animal. If the animal is
destroyed, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife lab will
require that the animal be tested and treated in the same manner as
evidence
Time is critical. The best chance of successfully tracking the animal
comes when qualified wildlife tracking personnel can be on scene
ATTACHMENT 3
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Resource Management Policy 12.006
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Title: Wildlife Response Protocols 6/30/2020
within a couple hours of the incident
Wildlife incidents at Rancho San Antonio Open Space Preserve
require notification by Visitor Services to Santa Clara County Parks,
Hidden Villa, and neighborhood associations
For all other Preserves, Visitor Services in conjunction with Public
Affairs shall notify applicable neighbors, tenants, local jurisdictions,
and agencies
Determine public education and media needs. Public Affairs staff will
update the District website and Visitor Services staff will distribute
materials developed in conjunction with Natural Resources staff
Complete an Electronic Wildlife Observation Form as soon as
possible after the incident and no later than 24 hours
A press release may be prepared by the District Public Information Officer.
Press releases will be determined on a case by case basis at the discretion
of management staff and the Natural Resources Manager or assigned
designee
Visitor Services staff posts a Caution Sign on all designated exterior access
points to the preserve where the incident occurred for a period of two (2)
weeks from the date the incident occurred
Area superintendent to conduct an after-action review with all District
departments involved in response to the incident.
5. Attack: An “Attack” is defined as an Incident where a human is injured or killed by a
wild animal
Procedures to follow when notified of an Attack:
Attend to the medical needs of the victim(s)
It is imperative that the victim(s) be evaluated and treated by medical
personnel
The bite area must be preserved to collect any animal fluid samples
For mountain lion or coyote attack, a Visitor Services Supervisor shall
contact a California Department of Fish and Wildlife Warden through
Mountain View Communications or their 24-hr. dispatch immediately (916)
358-1300. California Department of Fish and Wildlife will assist in
determining, from the above information, how to deal with the animal. If
necessary, California Department of Fish and Wildlife will contact personnel
for tracking or direct District staff to do so
For mountain lion and coyote attacks, immediately close and secure the
areas of the attack and treat it as a crime scene. Consider if this is warranted
for any other wildlife attacks on a case by case basis (for example may not
be warranted for a snake bite but may be needed for other attacks). This is
necessary to enhance the chances for tracking and trapping personnel to
locate the offending animal (see Section D: Closure Protocol)
Informational signs indicating Closed Areas should be posted at all
designated exterior access points and parking lots at the Preserve in
which the attack occurred
If the attack occurred near a preserve boundary, a Visitor Services
Supervisor in conjunction with Natural Resources staff will consider
closing or posting caution signs in neighboring preserves
Signs should be posted on barricades, existing signposts, and gates.
ATTACHMENT 3
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Resource Management Policy 12.006
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Title: Wildlife Response Protocols 6/30/2020
Signs must be visible to users and should act as a barrier to Closed
Areas of the Preserve. Caution tape may be used in addition to
posted signs to close off trail entrances and gate ways
“Area Closed” signs will be posted until Area Superintendent and/or
the Natural Resources Manager or assigned designee deems the
areas safe to the public. Caution signs will be posted following an
Area Closure for a length of time to be determined by the Area
Superintendent and the Natural Resources Manager or assigned
designee
For mountain lion, coyote, and other applicable attacks: make sure the
enforcement agency on scene is aware that an effective search for the
wildlife will most likely be conducted by CDFW and authorized trappers.
Treat the area as a crime scene even if the offending wildlife is destroyed
Time is critical. The best chance of successfully tracking an animal comes
when qualified personnel can be on scene within a couple hours of the attack
Document the circumstances of the attack by completing the Electronic
Wildlife Observation Form and Ranger Incident Report, paying special
attention to the exact location, description, and direction of travel of the
animal. Staff should also note the following:
What was the victim’s interaction with the animal prior to the attack?
Did the victim run prior to the attack?
Did the victim or others injure the animal in fending off the attack?
A follow-up supplemental form can be sent when the animal is located or
further tracking discontinued
Attempt to determine from the information if the animal’s behavior was
defensive in nature, or an attempt to prey on a person
Mountain lion, coyote or other applicable wildlife attacks at Rancho San
Antonio Open Space Preserve require notification by Visitor Services to
Santa Clara County Parks, Hidden Villa, and neighborhood associations
For all other Preserves, Visitor Services in conjunction with Public Affairs
shall notify applicable neighbors, tenants, local jurisdictions, and agencies
Provide visitor information in area of attack. Public Affairs staff will update the
District website and Visitor Services staff will distribute materials developed
in conjunction with Natural Resources staff
All questions regarding the attack should be referred to the District’s Visitor
Services Manager or their designee and California Department of Fish and
Wildlife until a public statement is made
Public Information Officer designated by the Visitor Services Manager or
Area Superintendent will handle questions regarding the preserve closure
A press release prepared by either the District Public Information Officer or
California Department of Fish and Wildlife is required if an attack by a
mountain lion, coyote, or other applicable animal occurs
Area superintendent to conduct an after-action review with all District
departments involved in response to the attack.
D. Electronic Wildlife Observation Form:
1. Authentic mountain lion encounters, incidents, attacks or other wildlife-human
interactions shall be reported to the on-duty supervisor, Area Superintendent, and the
ATTACHMENT 3
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Resource Management Policy 12.006
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Title: Wildlife Response Protocols 6/30/2020
Natural Resources Manager or assigned designee. All observations shall also be
recorded on the Electronic Wildlife Observation Form and Ranger Incident Report
which shall be completed (when needed) by end of shift. Only confirmed mountain
lion sightings and applicable wildlife incidents or attacks should be reported to
California Department of Fish and Wildlife. All Electronic Wildlife Observation Forms
should be completed within 24 hours of sighting, recurrent sighting, encounter,
incident, or attack
E. Closure Protocol:
1. A preserve, or a portion thereof, should be closed whenever necessary for public
safety, for investigation purposes, or for tracking offending animal(s). Visitor Services
staff may immediately close an area for public safety purposes. As soon as possible,
the Area Superintendent should approve a closure and indicate the scope of the
closure.
2. When any trail, portion of or an entire preserve(s) is closed, the Supervising Ranger
shall immediately contact the Area Superintendent and the Natural Resources
Manager or assigned designee and inform them of the circumstances. The Area
Superintendent shall notify the Visitor Services Manager who will notify the Visitor
and Field Services Assistant General Manager and General Manager of the situation.
Area Superintendent or Supervising Ranger may put the Visitor Services
Manager in direct contact with the ranger(s) on scene to relay clear, precise
information
If an Area Superintendent cannot be reached, the Supervising Ranger shall
contact the Visitor Services Manager to inform of the closure
If the Visitor Services Manager cannot be reached, the Area Superintendent
will contact the Assistant General Manager and General Manager to update
them on the closure
For any closure the Visitor Services Manager, Natural Resources Manager,
and General Manager will be notified of the incident as soon as possible
See also Emergency Notification Section 5.028 of the Ranger Operations
Manual
3. The duration and scope of the closure will depend on the circumstances of each
situation. Consultations should be made with knowledgeable professionals such as
wildlife biologists, California Department of Fish and Wildlife staff, authorized
trackers, etc. The closure may need to be adjusted as more information becomes
available. Consideration should also be given to the following specific factors:
The proximity of other use areas to the site of the wildlife-human interaction
and whether these areas consist of suitable habitat (i.e. vegetation that
provides cover) or wildlife corridors linking habitat blocks
The probability of an incident or attack. Natural Resources staff shall review
the circumstances of the wildlife-human interaction and the history of animal
activity in the area
Whether there are indications of a sick, injured, or diseased animal being
involved
Whether the animal’s behavior was predatory, defensive, or curious in nature
The animal’s direction of travel and elapsed time since the interaction.
Whether the circumstances of the wildlife-human interaction have any
similarity with other interactions that would indicate the presence of an
ATTACHMENT 3
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Resource Management Policy 12.006
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Title: Wildlife Response Protocols 6/30/2020
animal that is prone to aggressive behavior or does not fear humans
Visitor Services in conjunction with Public Affairs shall notify applicable
neighbors, tenants, local jurisdictions, and agencies as deemed necessary. If
a portion of a preserve is to be closed to the public for an extended period, a
press release should be issued to local news sources.
Visitor Services staff shall notify the law enforcement agency with jurisdiction
over the area of the closure
4. Preserve closures should remain in effect until the area is deemed safe by Natural
Resources staff or California Department of Fish and Wildlife (as applicable) and
Visitor Services Supervisory staff. Upon re-opening a closed area, Caution signs
should be posted for two weeks. If additional wildlife-human interaction(s) with
unacceptable behavior occur, or if the offending animal is still in the area, Caution
signs will remain posted for two weeks from the most recent.
F. Duration of Closures Following an Attack:
1. Areas should normally be reopened when California Department of Fish and Wildlife,
trappers, or others as applicable have completed (successfully or unsuccessfully)
their operations, and there is no indication that the offending animal is still in the
area. Closures for longer periods of time may be appropriate if there are indications
that the offending animal is still in the area (i.e., fresh sign) or is likely to return soon
(i.e., cached food). Before reopening an area, consult with Natural Resources or
California Department of Fish and Wildlife (as applicable) and the Visitor Services
Manager. Be sure visitor information (signs and brochures) are in place when facility
is reopened.
2. If a portion of the preserve is to be closed to the public for an extended period, the
Public Affairs department will work with the Natural Resources Manager or assigned
designee and/or California Department of Fish and Wildlife (as applicable) to issue a
press release to local news sources.
3. Closures shall be enforced with citations if necessary, to ensure compliance.
G. Public Education during Preserve Closures:
1. When a closure has been necessary due to a wildlife interaction, District staff should
make every effort to inform the public about the value and fragile nature of wildlife
and their habitat within the preserves. What people can do to avoid a potentially
dangerous interaction with wildlife should be given special attention. General
information (such as signs and pamphlets) on the specific animals should be made
available in affected areas.
2. If a Preserve or trail was closed and reopened without locating the offending animal,
visitors should be informed of the situation and of what to do if they encounter
wildlife. Use any closure as an additional opportunity to expand the District’s efforts to
educate the public about living with wild animals.
H. Media Relations about Wildlife Interactions:
1. All media inquiries regarding responses to specific wildlife interactions shall generally
be referred to the Public Affairs Manager, or the designated Public Information
Officer. Since California Department of Fish and Wildlife has statutory responsibility
for wildlife in the state, media inquiries regarding the specific wildlife interaction may
be referred to California Department of Fish and Wildlife staff (if applicable). For
“incidents” or “attack,” California Department of Fish and Wildlife may assist the
District in disseminating appropriate information.
2. District staff may respond to inquiries regarding frequency and locations of sightings,
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Resource Management Policy 12.006
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Title: Wildlife Response Protocols 6/30/2020
District protocols for wildlife interactions, public warnings, preserve closures and
other types of general information related to District operations.
3. The media is an important partner to be utilized in the on-going education of the
community regarding the possible presence of dangerous wild animals, and
threatening wildlife behavior.
4. Incident information will be posted on the District website if a preserve is closed due
to wildlife activity. Incident information may be posted on the District website when
caution signs are posted based on the discretion of the Area Superintendent and
Natural Resources Manager or assigned designee.
ATTACHMENT 3
June 24, 2020
Board Meeting 20-13
SPECIAL AND REGULAR MEETING
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
Wednesday, June 24, 2020
The Board of Directors conducted this meeting in accordance with California Governor
Newsom’s Executive Order N-29-20. All Board members and staff participated via
teleconference.
DRAFT MINUTES
SPECIAL MEETING
Vice-President Riffle called the special meeting of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space
District to order at 5:00 p.m.
ROLL CALL
Members Present: Jed Cyr, Larry Hassett, Karen Holman, Zoe Kersteen-Tucker, Yoriko
Kishimoto, Curt Riffle, and Pete Siemens
Members Absent: None
Staff Present: General Manager Ana Ruiz, General Counsel Hilary Stevenson, Assistant
General Manager Susanna Chan, Chief Financial Officer/Director of
Administrative Services Stefan Jaskulak, District Clerk/Assistant to the
General Manager Jennifer Woodworth, Public Affairs Manager Korrine
Skinner
District Clerk Jennifer Woodworth reported no written comments were submitted for this item.
1. Benchmark Survey Results (R-20-62)
Public Affairs Manager Korrine Skinner provided the staff presentation describing the purpose of
the benchmark survey to support the Board’s strategic plan goals and to inform the creation of a
District-wide strategic communications plan. Ms. Skinner introduced Miranda Everitt from FM3
Research who was the District’s consultant for the project.
Ms. Everitt presented the results of the benchmark survey conducted in January 2020, describing
the methodology used and compared District survey results to surveys completed by other open
space and parks agencies. The survey looked at residents’ opinions on issues affecting District
residents, value of open space lands, District mission and values, effectiveness of District
messaging, etc.
Meeting 20-13 Page 2
The Board requested and received clarification regarding the benchmark survey results.
President Holman inquired regarding the reasons why residents surveyed under 40 have less
familiarity with the District.
Ms. Everitt stated this could be for a variety of factors, such as new to the area, less awareness of
local open space options, busier schedules, etc.
Director Kishimoto inquired regarding the information sources used by residents and suggested
additional information could be gathered regarding specific sources of news and information.
Ms. Skinner reported the District will repeat the study periodically and could craft a more
specific question for a future study.
Director Kersteen-Tucker commented on the size of the sampling area in the Coastside
Protection Area stating that a large number were from Redwood City, which is not in the
Coastside Protection Area.
Ms. Skinner stated that the areas were identified by zip code, and staff will look into this more.
Director Kersteen-Tucker spoke regarding the importance of protecting local food sources as a
potential District message related to protecting agricultural lands.
Vice-President Riffle inquired regarding the potential effect of the shelter-in-place on the survey
results.
Ms. Skinner stated that she thinks resident awareness levels are expected to have risen as visitor
usage rose during the shelter-in-place.
Vice-President Riffle inquired regarding differing opinions for residents along the coastal area
versus those closer to the Bay.
Ms. Skinner described some of the small differences between residents on either side of the
District and stated that the results were enlightening compared with preconceived ideas of what
the results would be.
Ms. Skinner reviewed the implications of the survey results for District communications,
including increasing awareness, consider target audience opportunities, elevating key messaging
themes, and matching the message to the audience. Strategies include better utilizing the Open
Space Views newsletter, expanding media and social media outreach, expand community
presentations and tabling, embracing the District’s low-impact identity, etc.
Public comments opened at 6:37 p.m.
District Clerk Jennifer Woodworth reported no public comments were submitted for this item.
Public hearing closed at 6:37 p.m.
Meeting 20-13 Page 3
Director Siemens suggested a smaller scope survey should be completed in the next year to
measure increase in awareness following the COVID-19 outbreak and spoke in favor of creating
a newspaper insert for local papers.
Director Kersteen-Ticker expressed interested in further studying the differences between
coastside and bayside residents to help develop focused messages for the coastal areas. Director
Kersteen-Tucker expressed interest in learning more about where residents visit open space, such
on District, state, or county lands.
Director Kishimoto spoke regarding the District’s upcoming 50th anniversary and what may be
next for the District in the coming 50 years.
Director Hassett spoke in favor of partnering with health organizations to promote family health
on District preserves.
General Manager Ana Ruiz commented on the value of the information to help the District better
connect with its residents and also in creating new tools that can provide more focused
information that is important and meaningful to residents.
No Board action required.
Vice-President Riffle adjourned the special meeting of the Board of Directors of the
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District at 6:56 p.m.
REGULAR MEETING
Vice-President Riffle called the regular meeting of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space
District to order at 7:05 p.m.
ROLL CALL
Members Present: Jed Cyr, Larry Hassett, Zoe Kersteen-Tucker, Yoriko Kishimoto, Curt
Riffle, and Pete Siemens
Members Absent: Karen Holman
Staff Present: General Manager Ana Ruiz, General Counsel Hilary Stevenson, Chief
Financial Officer Stefan Jaskulak, Assistant General Manager Brian
Malone, Assistant General Manager Susanna Chan, Controller Mike
Foster, District Clerk/Assistant to the General Manager Jennifer
Woodworth, Finance Manager Andrew Taylor, Natural Resources
Manager Kirk Lenington, Visitor Services Manager Matt Anderson,
Planning Manager Jane Mark, Land & Facilities Manager Michael Jurich,
Engineering & Construction Manager Jay Lin, Information Systems &
Technology Manager Casey Hiatt, Public Affairs Manager Kori Skinner,
Real Property Manager Mike Williams, Governmental Affairs Specialist
Joh Hugg
Meeting 20-13 Page 4
Vice-President Riffle announced this meeting is being held in accordance with Governor
Newsom’s Executive Order allowing Board members to participate remotely. The District has
done its best to conduct a meeting where everyone has an opportunity to listen to the meeting
and to provide comment. The public has the opportunity to comment on the agenda, and the
opportunity to listen to this meeting through the internet or via telephone. This information can
be found on the meeting agenda, which was physically posted at the District’s Administrative
Office, and on the District website. Vice-President Riffle described the process and protocols for
the meeting.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
District Clerk Jennifer Woodworth reported no written comments were submitted for this item.
ADOPTION OF AGENDA
Motion: Director Kersteen-Tucker moved, and Director Siemens seconded the motion to adopt
the agenda.
ROLL CALL VOTE: 6-0-0 (President Holman absent)
CONSENT CALENDAR
Public comment opened at 7:12 p.m.
District Clerk Jennifer Woodworth read the comments submitted for the Consent Calendar into
the record.
Ross Heitkamp supports the dedication of a commemorative bench for California State Senator
Jim Beall and suggested an alternate location for the bench installation.
Public comment closed at 7:14 p.m.
Director Holman arrived at 7:15 p.m.
Motion: Director Cyr moved, and Director Siemens seconded the motion to approve the Consent
Calendar.
ROLL CALL VOTE: 7-0-0
1. Approve June 10, 2020 Minutes
2. Claims Report
3. Approval of a Commemorative Bench for State Senator Jim Beall at El Sereno
Open Space Preserve (R-20-63)
General Manager’s Recommendation: Approve the recommendation from the Legislative,
Funding and Public Affairs Committee to install a commemorative bench and plaque in honor of
Meeting 20-13 Page 5
significant supporter State Senator Jim Beall with a view over the Lexington Vista at El Sereno
Open Space Preserve.
Director Siemens spoke regarding the honor it was to nominate Senator Beall for a
commemorative bench honoring Senator Beall.
Governmental Affairs Specialist Josh Hugg stated staff will work with Senator Beall’s office
regarding the specific bench location if the bench is approved by the Board in response to the
public comment received. The photograph attached to the staff report is meant to be
representative of the area.
4. Partnership with the San Mateo County Resource Conservation District for
Invasive Plant Early Detection and Rapid Response (R-20-67)
General Manager’s Recommendation: Authorize the General Manager to enter into a three-year
agreement with the San Mateo County Resource Conservation District to perform education and
outreach activities and limited invasive non-native plant treatment, for a total amount not-to-
exceed $210,000 ($70,000 per year).
5. Annual Review of Finance Policies for Fiscal Year 2021 (R-20-64)
General Manager’s Recommendations:
1. Affirm Board Policies 3.08 - Statement of Investment, and 3.09 - Debt Management Policy.
2. Approve two minor amendments to Board Policy 3.06 – Initial and Continuing Disclosures
Relating to Bond Issuances relating to reporting events of the Continuing Disclosure Policy.
6. Authorization to contribute a $1.5 Million payment of the Fiscal Year 2019-20
budget savings to the Section 115 Trust administered by Public Agency Retirement
Services (PARS) (R-20-65)
General Manager’s Recommendation: Authorize the General Manager to deposit $1.5 Million
into the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District’s PARS account established under a Section
115 Trust to pre-fund pension obligations.
ROLL CALL VOTE: 7-0-0
BOARD BUSINESS
7. Fiscal Year 2020-21 Budget and Capital Improvement and Action Plan (R-20-68)
Chief Financial Officer and Director of Administrative Services Stefan Jaskulak provided the
staff report. Mr. Jaskulak reviewed the changes to the budget book since the public hearing on
the budget on June 10, 2020, as requested by the Board of Directors. Mr. Jaskulak reviewed the
proposed FY20-21 budget by fund and the resolutions proposed for adoption.
Director Riffle requested clarification regarding the e-bike pilot project, including potential study
of e-bike use on paved and unpaved trails, which is included as a Visitor Services Department
operating project.
Meeting 20-13 Page 6
Assistant General Manager Brian Malone reported the intent of the project is to bring an item to
the Board in August 2020 regarding e-bike use on paved trails. A potential pilot program for e-
bikes on unpaved trails, including potential project initiation and timeline, would also be
discussed as a part of the agenda item.
Director Kishimoto suggested modifying the project language to state “Explore pilot program for
e-bike access on District paved trails and defer the evaluation of a pilot e-bike program on
District unpaved trails.”
Director Kersteen-Tucker spoke in support of including that further evaluation of e-bike use
would be evaluated rather than stating any evaluation is deferred. Additionally, Director
Kersteen-Tucker requested additional information regarding the impact of e-bike on District
trails.
Mr. Malone stated the main impact at District preserves is on the visitor experience rather than
on the trails, and staff will be installing additional signage informing visitors regarding the
current prohibition of e-bikes on District trails.
Director Kersteen-Tucker inquired how long the e-bikes potential pilot program would be
deferred.
General Manager Ruiz confirmed that further study of a potential pilot project for e-bikes on
unpaved trails would be including in the following fiscal year action plan and budget (FY22),
which the Board will review and approve as part of the annual Budget and Capital Improvement
and Action Plan process.
Public comments opened at 7:46 p.m.
District Clerk Jennifer Woodworth reported no public comments were submitted for this item.
Public comments closed at 7:46 p.m.
Motion: Director Kishimoto moved and Director Cyr seconded the motion to:
1. Adopt a Resolution approving the Fiscal Year 2020-21 (FY21) Budget and Capital
Improvement and Action Plan.
2. The Visitor Services Department operating project E-Bike Policy Evaluation will be
modified to read “Explore pilot program for e-bike access on District paved trails.”
3. Adopt a Resolution approving the Classification and Compensation Plan for Fiscal Year
2020-21.
ROLL CALL VOTE: 7-0-0
INFORMATIONAL MEMORANDUM
• Updates regarding the administrative historic resources procedural guide, historic
resources database, and historic resources training program
Meeting 20-13 Page 7
INFORMATIONAL REPORTS
A. Committee Reports
Director Riffle reported the Board Appointee Evaluation committee met on June 17, 2020 and
finalized the evaluation schedule, which has been provided to the Board appointees.
B. Staff Reports
Ms. Ruiz reported on several upcoming webinars that may be of interest to the Board members.
C. Director Reports
The Board members submitted their compensatory reports.
Director Kersteen-Tucker requested updates regarding the District’s volunteer and docent
programs and their ability to return to field work.
Ms. Ruiz reported staff is currently assembling a phased plan for reentry into the field, including
training, safety protocols, etc.
Director Kersteen-Tucker requested and received an update regarding the higher use of District
preserves by visitors.
President Holman inquired if staff was aware of any concerns related to illegal fireworks being
used near District preserves.
Mr. Malone reported that visitor use is typically higher near the July Fourth holiday, and
additional staff is brought on to enforce fireworks prohibitions. There has not been an issue
related to fireworks prohibitions so far at the preserves.
Director Riffle suggested the Board conduct a self-evaluation and requested staff report back
with information regarding this topic.
The Board members spoke in support of conducting a Board self-evaluation.
President Holman suggested staff work with the Board President and Vice-President to further
develop the self-evaluation process and return to the Board.
ADJOURNMENT
Vice-President Riffle adjourned the regular meeting of the Board of Directors of the
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 8:12 p.m.
________________________________
Jennifer Woodworth, MMC
District Clerk
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
CLAIMS REPORT
MEETING # 20-14
MEETING DATE: July 08, 2020 Fiscal Year to date EFT:55.87%
Fiscal Year 18-19 EFT:29.44%
Payment
Number
Payment
Type
Payment
Date
Notes Vendor No. and Name Invoice Description Payment Amount
2143 EFT 06/29/2020 11958 - PARS/Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District FY20 PARS 115 Trust Contribution - Pension 1,500,000.00
81215 Check 06/26/2020 *10845 - City of Mountain View - Finance Dispatch Services - Apr - Jun 2020 57,450.00
2116 EFT 06/26/2020 *12052 - 4984 EL Camino LLC A02/A03/A04 Rent - July 2020 36,678.00
2154 EFT 07/03/2020 11303 - Santa Clara County FireSafe Council Funding Support - Grant Application Development - Cal Fire Forest Health Grant 34,995.00
81232 Check 06/26/2020 11558 - Vida Verde Nature Education Grantmaking Program: Vida Verde Education Center - 1/1/20 - 4/29/20 27,487.05
81238 Check 07/03/2020 11501 - Harris Design BCR Public Access Project - Jan - Apr 2020 26,524.38
2125 EFT 06/26/2020 11593 - H.T. Harvey & Associates Ravenswood Bay Trail - April 2020 24,650.18
2131 EFT 06/26/2020 10227 - Peninsula Open Space Trust South Cowell Appraisal - 1/2 MROSD Share /South Cowell Investigations/Historic Eval.19,812.35
2120 EFT 06/26/2020 *10214 - Delta Dental Dental Benefits - June 2020 17,638.50
2147 EFT 07/03/2020 11859 - Horizon Water and Environment, LLC Programmatic Environmental Permitting thru May 31, 2020 16,933.00
2151 EFT 07/03/2020 10227 - Peninsula Open Space Trust Reimbursement for Phase II Soil Sampling 13,700.00
2142 EFT 06/26/2020 11990 - ZFA Structural Engineers Contingency - Structure Stabilization at Multiple Preserves 11,381.50
2160 EFT 07/03/2020 12050 - Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc.Deer Hollow Farm White Barn Structural Stabilization - March 2020 11,115.00
2134 EFT 06/26/2020 12082 - Sicular Environmental Consulting La Honda Forest Management Plan - 4/1/20 - 5/31/20 8,200.00
2128 EFT 06/26/2020 10419 - Lincoln National Life Insurance Co.LTD/AD&D/Life - June 2020 7,655.87
2122 EFT 06/26/2020 10642 - Forensic Analytical Consulting Services, Inc.Fit Testing/Annual Mandatory Cal/OSHA Training 2020 7,450.00
2138 EFT 06/26/2020 11895 - Timmons Group Inc Work Order and Asset Management - Mar - Apr 2020 6,335.00
81234 Check 06/26/2020 11165 - Woodhams Electrical Disconnect Elect. Feed to Burned Structure - Thornewood/Reinstall #4 ACSR Cable - Tree Work 5,586.00
2118 EFT 06/26/2020 11148 - Balance Hydrologics, Inc BCR Gaging Assistant - Bear Creek Preserve 4,686.25
2124 EFT 06/26/2020 10187 - Gardenland Power Equipment Fuel, Helmets, Brushcutter parts, Weed Whip, Hedge Trimmer, Chainsaw Chains 4,294.09
81239 Check 07/03/2020 11770 - Hydroscience Engineers Bear Creek Stables Improvements (Water System Design) - May 2020 4,085.00
81242 Check 07/03/2020 11618 - Trail People Hwy 17 Wildlife Crossing - Final 4/16 - 6/09 3,983.00
2141 EFT 06/26/2020 *11118 - Wex Bank Fuel for District vehicles 3,847.20
2132 EFT 06/26/2020 12031 - Ray & Jan's Mobile Truck Service P125, P115 & P122 Equip Install, 5K Service (8 Patrol Vehicles), Qtr Bit Inspections 3,200.18
81224 Check 06/26/2020 11064 - Rosemary Cameron Consulting services 10/1/2019 - 05/31/2020 3,137.50
2157 EFT 07/03/2020 11895 - Timmons Group Inc Work Order and Asset Management - May 2020 3,005.00
2148 EFT 07/03/2020 10794 - John Northmore Roberts & Associates Bear Creek Stables Improvements - May 2020 2,975.13
2146 EFT 07/03/2020 10187 - Gardenland Power Equipment Chainsaw bar oil, trimmer line, battery powered equip, premixed fuel & gas cans 2,944.66
2156 EFT 07/03/2020 10307 - The Sign Shop Signage - Windy Hill, RW Bay Trail, Std Op, Facility Main. & Custom Vinyl Letters 2,745.88
2130 EFT 06/26/2020 10073 - Normal Data Database Services - May 2020 2,406.25
2126 EFT 06/26/2020 12105 - IBI Group Rancho San Antonio Multimodal Access Study - February 2020 2,355.00
81229 Check 06/26/2020 *11730 - Standard Insurance Company RV Benefit - Basic Supplemental Life - June 2020 2,312.46
2153 EFT 07/03/2020 12031 - Ray & Jan's Mobile Truck Service 5K Service - P123,P117,M208,M210,M214,M225,A102,M223,M216 2,199.27
81222 Check 06/26/2020 11518 - Ranching By Nature Payment for Thistle Mowing Hand-pulling Poison Hemlock 2,112.50
81237 Check 07/03/2020 12015 - Dudek Grant Writing Services - 4/25 - 5/29 2,100.00
2119 EFT 06/26/2020 12109 - Christine Sculati Grants Program Support - May 2020 2,093.75
2145 EFT 07/03/2020 10723 - Callander Associates Ravenswood Bay Trail Construction Project - May 2020 1,879.86
2121 EFT 06/26/2020 10546 - Ecological Concerns, Inc.IPM for Roads and Trails at BCR 1,750.00
81235 Check 07/03/2020 *10428 - ALLIANT INSURANCE SERVICES Crime Insurance Premium 7/1/2020 - 7/1/2021 1,701.00
81240 Check 07/03/2020 11409 - LA OFERTA Bond Oversight Committee Recruitment Ads - 06/05/2020 1,644.00
2144 EFT 07/03/2020 10616 - BKF Engineers ADA Barrier Removal Project - 4/27/20 - 5/24/20 1,570.00
2140 EFT 06/26/2020 *10213 - Vision Service Plan-CA Benefit - Vision - June 2020 1,491.00
81231 Check 06/26/2020 10201 - Turf & Industrial Equip. Co.ATV18 JD Gator 400hr service, 2 new front tires 1,425.20
81218 Check 06/26/2020 10056 - Lance Bayer Legal Consulting & Training Services - 4/27 - 5/18 1,425.00
81236 Check 07/03/2020 10706 - Bay Area News Group (Mercury News)Bid Ads Purisima Uplands Demo and Clean-up Project 1,405.26
2139 EFT 06/26/2020 10350 - Valbridge Property Advisors Property Appraisal - 330 Distel Circle 1,302.00
2159 EFT 07/03/2020 11856 - West Coast Arborists, Inc.Fresh Cuts & Stump Treatments - 240 Cristich Lane 1,300.00
2155 EFT 07/03/2020 12117 - Signet Testing Laboratories, Inc.SAO Special Inspection Services 5/29/20 - 6/5/20 1,256.20
81220 Check 06/26/2020 11928 - Old Republic Title Co.Zellerbach Condition of Title Guarantee/Loma Prieta Condition of Title Guarantee 1,200.00
2137 EFT 06/26/2020 *10952 - Sonic.net Internet Services - July 2020 1,170.00
81221 Check 06/26/2020 10397 - Overhead Door Company of Santa Clara Valley Shop Doors Repair/Adjust (FFO)1,005.00
Electronic funds transfer (EFT) for accounts payable disbursements to reduce check printing and mailing, increase
payment security, and ensure quicker receipt by vendors
page 1 of 8
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
CLAIMS REPORT
MEETING # 20-14
MEETING DATE: July 08, 2020 Fiscal Year to date EFT:55.87%
Fiscal Year 18-19 EFT:29.44%
Payment
Number
Payment
Type
Payment
Date
Notes Vendor No. and Name Invoice Description Payment Amount
Electronic funds transfer (EFT) for accounts payable disbursements to reduce check printing and mailing, increase
payment security, and ensure quicker receipt by vendors
2129 EFT 06/26/2020 10791 - LSA Associates, Inc.Beatty Parking Area and Trail Connections - April 2020 968.75
81216 Check 06/26/2020 *11551 - Green Team of San Jose Garbage Service (RSA), (SAO)895.73
81241 Check 07/03/2020 10058 - Liebert Cassidy Whitmore Human Resources Legal Consulting - May 2020 881.00
81243 Check 07/03/2020 10775 - Tyler Technologies Inc Conversion Services - NW Table & Data Fields 700.00
2123 EFT 06/26/2020 10169 - Foster Brothers Security Systems Lock/Door Closer (PuR)670.35
81213 Check 06/26/2020 12090 - Action Towing M27 Tow to SFO 660.00
2149 EFT 07/03/2020 11617 - MIG, Inc.ADA Plan Update - March 2020 641.25
2135 EFT 06/26/2020 12117 - Signet Testing Laboratories, Inc.SAO Special Inspection Services 628.10
2133 EFT 06/26/2020 10099 - San Francisco Bay Bird Observatory American Badger & Burrowing Owl Habitat Suitability Study - May 20 597.00
2127 EFT 06/26/2020 11906 - Law Offices of Gary M. Baum Legal Services - May 2020 570.00
2136 EFT 06/26/2020 10447 - Simms Plumbing & Water Equip., Inc.Water Tank Repair at Big Dipper Residence 524.08
81226 Check 06/26/2020 *10136 - San Jose Water Company Water Service (SAO-Cristich), (BCR)520.30
81227 Check 06/26/2020 10580 - Sharp Business Systems Sharp Copies - printer costs - 4/28/20 - 5/29/20 468.71
81233 Check 06/26/2020 11852 - Western Exterminator Co.Exterminator Service (RSA-Annex)426.50
81212 Check 06/26/2020 *12041 - A T & T Mobility (FirstNet)EOC Emergency Phones - May 2020 (8)353.93
2158 EFT 07/03/2020 11388 - Wagner & Bonsignore Water Rights Services 352.50
81223 Check 06/26/2020 10093 - Rene Hardoy AO Gardening Services 325.00
81228 Check 06/26/2020 10102 - Shute, Mihaly & Weinberger LLP Legal Services - SMC Code Amendments - April 2020 269.50
2150 EFT 07/03/2020 10925 - Papé Machinery T-34 John Deere Excavator Parts 217.82
81225 Check 06/26/2020 10151 - Safety Kleen Systems Inc Solvent Tank Service (FFO)216.90
81214 Check 06/26/2020 10168 - Cintas Shop Towel Service (FFO & SFO)168.95
81217 Check 06/26/2020 11141 - Jarvis Fay & Gibson LLP Legal Services - May 2020 150.00
2152 EFT 07/03/2020 12060 - Preferred Alliance, Inc.Off-Site Participants Testing - May 2020 145.04
81219 Check 06/26/2020 *10664 - Mission Trail Waste Systems AO Garbage Service 140.51
2117 EFT 06/26/2020 10294 - AmeriGas - 0130 Propane Tank Refill (FFO)124.26
81230 Check 06/26/2020 10162 - Terminix Processing Center Pest Control for AO 94.00
81211 Check 06/26/2020 *11880 - A T & T (CALNET3)Mt. Um Safety Phone 45.77
1,921,355.42
*Annual Claims
**Hawthorn Expenses
A### = Administrative Office Vehicle HR = Human Resources P### = Patrol Vehicle SCNT = Stevens Creek Nature Trail
AO2, AO3, AO4 = Leased Office Space IPM = Invasive Plant Maintenance PCR = Purisima Creek Redwoods SCS = Stevens Creek Shoreline Nature Area
BCR = Bear Creek Redwoods ISM = Invasive Species Management PIC= Picchetti Ranch SFO = Skyline Field Office
CAO = Coastal Area Office LH = La Honda Creek PR = Pulgas Ridge SG = Saratoga Gap
CC = Coal Creek LR = Long Ridge RR = Russian Ridge SJH = Saint Joseph's Hill
DHF = Dear Hollow Farm LT = Los Trancos RR/MIN = Russian Ridge - Mindego Hill SR= Skyline Ridge
ECdM = El Corte de Madera M### = Maintenance Vehicle RSA = Rancho San Antonio T### = Tractor or Trailer
ES = El Sereno MB = Monte Bello RV = Ravenswood TC = Tunitas Creek
FFO = Foothills Field Office MR = Miramontes Ridge SA = Sierra Azul TH = Teague Hill
FOOSP = Fremont Older Open Space Pres.OSP = Open Space Preserve SAO = South Area Outpost TW = Thornewood
GP = General Preserve SAU = Mount Umunhum WH = Windy Hill
Abbreviations
page 2 of 8
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
CLAIMS REPORT Wells Fargo Credit Card - May 2020
MEETING # 20-14
MEETING DATE 07-08-20
GL Date Amount Description
6/8/2020 69,260.44 Annual Microsoft Software Office 365, SharePoint, OneDrive, Teams
6/8/2020 26,560.00 Eucalyptus Tree Removal at RSA
6/8/2020 9,800.00 Violence Prevention Training
6/8/2020 8,074.75 Manure Dump Trailer - Reimbursed by DHF
6/8/2020 7,969.14 Internet Service at AO
6/8/2020 7,693.65 Wildlife Cameras for Mountain Lion Study at Rancho San Antonio
6/8/2020 4,330.82 Touch Free faucets Covid upgrades
6/8/2020 3,103.55 District wide phone service and SAO T1 Internet
6/8/2020 3,045.51 Engine support and motor mount replacement
6/8/2020 3,000.00 Work Delay Charge for Nest Survey - Tree Removal RSA
6/8/2020 2,704.14 Air compressor
6/8/2020 2,625.00 Cloth Facemasks
6/8/2020 2,104.83 M204 AC Evaporator Core and Air Conditioning
6/8/2020 2,095.99 Interpretive Guide Training Mat'l & Certification - Chance
6/8/2020 2,066.52 Touch free faucets for AO2,AO4, and SFO
6/8/2020 2,045.59 T32 Repairs
6/8/2020 1,802.58 3 Kohler touchfree kitchen faucets for AO1, SFO
6/8/2020 1,485.42 SA-Mt Um Radar Tower Fall Protection Roof Anchors
6/8/2020 1,421.07 Debris Disposal
6/8/2020 1,400.00 Online Course Registration Fee ArcGIS Pro 4/23-24 – A.Peth
6/8/2020 1,387.92 SFO Propane
6/8/2020 1,368.00 Ultra violet bulbs
6/8/2020 1,348.25 Touchless Flushing Units for Field Office Toilets
6/8/2020 1,305.47 COVID-19 Signs. Quantity: 36.
6/8/2020 1,179.01 SFO Propane
6/8/2020 1,174.00 Pre-employment physical and Commercial DL recertification
6/8/2020 1,144.50 Face Masks
6/8/2020 1,106.54 Touchless ADA Bottle Filler
6/8/2020 1,080.63 Four new BFGoodrich All-Terrain Tires
6/8/2020 1,070.60 Geocortex Workflow training for Data Analyst I
6/8/2020 1,035.00 Toastmasters Membership Renewal
6/8/2020 1,000.00 Cloth Facemasks
6/8/2020 1,000.00 Cloth facemasks
6/8/2020 1,000.00 Cloth facemasks
6/8/2020 962.53 2 Tractor Tires for John Deere 6330 - TO27
6/8/2020 882.63 Nerf bars for FFO patrol vehicles
6/8/2020 813.90 Kestrel Weather Meters
6/8/2020 810.61 Law enforcement gear, batons, cases, belts, etc.
6/8/2020 725.00 Annual Membership - Sunnyvale Chamber - Hood
6/8/2020 710.13 Uniform Hats With Embroidery Patches
6/8/2020 698.50 WT02 Tow Due to Rear Axel Leak
6/8/2020 679.22 Sprayers for applying disinfectant
6/8/2020 678.94 Refrigerator for Monte Bello Cabin Residence
6/8/2020 675.13 Restroom Cleaning Supplies
6/8/2020 613.97 Touch free kitchen faucet for FFO
6/8/2020 607.54 COVID-19 Signs. Quantity: 12.
6/8/2020 589.36 Restroom cleaning supplies
6/8/2020 557.82 SA-Kennedy Rd - Sanitation Service
6/8/2020 547.53 Plexi Partition Supports
6/8/2020 541.48 COVID-19 Signs. Quantity: 13.
6/8/2020 509.93 Thermometers
6/8/2020 500.00 Bay Area Air Quality Mgmt Hazardous Matl's Abatement Fee - SAO
6/8/2020 499.90 Nitrile Gloves
6/8/2020 478.40 Permit fees for foundation on the interior of the structure
6/8/2020 463.50 Property Research Services - April 2020
6/8/2020 459.90 Zoom subscription for virtual public meetings
6/8/2020 455.75 Face Masks
6/8/2020 455.46 Batteries for radios
6/8/2020 450.00 Website hosting - May 2020
6/8/2020 450.00 CAPPO Procurement Conference Reg Fee Jan 2020 - McDaniel
6/8/2020 450.00 Tow vehicle from AO to Mission Valley Ford
6/8/2020 441.32 Nerf bar for FFO patrol vehicle.
6/8/2020 425.00 SA-Mt Um - Rental Pedestrian Canopy
6/8/2020 418.89 Technical support calls
6/8/2020 409.97 Office Supplies related to COVID-19 - Bankers boxes
6/8/2020 387.04 Hotel room for Online PC832 class - Schenck
6/8/2020 371.45 ATV Helmet/Goggles for John H., Cody F.
6/8/2020 363.17 SFO Garbage and Recycle
6/8/2020 354.20 Facebook Advertising - April 2020
6/8/2020 350.00 Job announcement Budget Manager - AFP Online Job Center
6/8/2020 343.18 Face Masks
6/8/2020 330.00 Monthly Rental for Storage Unit
6/8/2020 327.99 Fans for public restrooms
6/8/2020 319.83 Visitor Survey Flyers (Qty 50)
6/8/2020 306.96 Lumber and Hardware for DHF Manure Mgmt Project
6/8/2020 300.39 COVID-19 Signs. Quantity: 6
6/8/2020 290.00 Subscription to Cattlefax (marketing/pricing info) - Weidemann
6/8/2020 289.95 Windex Disinfectant Spray
6/8/2020 285.24 Wireless antenna for providing internet at Nature Center as SFO
6/8/2020 283.35 Ravenswood Bay Trail Signage
6/8/2020 276.98 SA-Mt Um - Fencing Rental @ Summit
6/8/2020 275.33 T28-Bobcat Coupler Kit and Hydraulic Fluid
6/8/2020 275.00 Job announcement Budget Manager - CA Society of Municipal
6/8/2020 273.28 Network switch for use at Nature Center at SFO
6/8/2020 270.70 Laminating sheets for preserve signs
6/8/2020 270.26 Ballasts for UV Lights at Bergman Main House
6/8/2020 269.39 Axial Fans for Public Restrooms
6/8/2020 247.83 Escutcheons for touch free kitchen faucets
6/8/2020 245.41 Plastic bottles, soap dispencers
6/8/2020 243.23 Field supplies for pressing plants
6/8/2020 235.15 Field Supplies
6/8/2020 228.65 Marketing Email - May 2020
6/8/2020 227.10 3 Oil filled radiator heaters for Silva house
6/8/2020 225.00 Towing Services for M204
6/8/2020 222.29 Car chargers
6/8/2020 220.00 Pre-employment physical
6/8/2020 218.00 LexisNexis Online Subscription - April 2020
6/8/2020 216.30 Hitch Rack for E-Bike
6/8/2020 208.00 American Public Works Asscn Membership for AGM
6/8/2020 200.00 Monthly payment for Logmein Rescue remote admin tool
6/8/2020 200.00 LCW Webinar - COVID
6/8/2020 197.42 Consultant Programming on Word report templates
6/8/2020 191.76 Laminating Sheets for Quarterly Docent Activities
6/8/2020 189.35 Water line repair from house fire
6/8/2020 184.16 Hydraulic oil for heavy equipment
6/8/2020 181.30 Laser detector and car chargers
6/8/2020 180.00 Renewal of Costco membership for 2020
6/8/2020 176.37 Poison ivy scrub
6/8/2020 168.25 Check Valves for Faucet Upgrades - Covid 19
6/8/2020 168.00 Hand sanitizer
6/8/2020 166.35 Rodent deterrent sonic devices for various residential houses
6/8/2020 162.78 Sloan Valve Retrofit kit for AO urinal
6/8/2020 162.38 Upgrade to Office 365 G5 x 1 License
6/8/2020 162.05 Towing Service for M204
6/8/2020 159.00 Job announcement Budget Manager - Government Finance Office
6/8/2020 155.80 Lumber for DHF Manure Mgmt Project
6/8/2020 150.73 Black Disposable Nitrile Gloves
6/8/2020 141.83 AO Water Service
6/8/2020 135.27 Metal for restrooms
6/8/2020 130.74 Bike Brakes
6/8/2020 130.27 Parts for Faucet Upgrades - Covid 19
6/8/2020 130.00 CAPPO Membership - Jaskulak
6/8/2020 129.93 Deposits Receivable
6/8/2020 128.52 PC 832 Class for Ranger - Cowan
6/8/2020 128.52 PC 832 Class for Ranger - Schenck
6/8/2020 127.22 Parts for faucet installations - Covid 19
6/8/2020 122.75 Consultant Programming Work on Word Report Templates
6/8/2020 121.85 Safety Glasses
6/8/2020 121.63 Water Service for Rentals
6/8/2020 120.45 Key lock boxes for various residential properties
6/8/2020 116.40 Parts for Faucet Upgrades - Covid 19
6/8/2020 115.60 Toilet paper
6/8/2020 113.25 Water Service for Rentals
6/8/2020 111.40 M24 Tow Hitch and Lock
6/8/2020 110.00 CSMFO Membership - Jaskulak
6/8/2020 110.00 Municipal Clerk Assoc Membership GMO Admin Assistant - Lumina
6/8/2020 103.28 Field Supplies
6/8/2020 100.74 AO Plumbing Supplies
6/8/2020 99.00 Online Field Training Officer refresher - Barshow
6/8/2020 99.00 FTO Refresher Training - Verbrugge
6/8/2020 98.58 Batteries for counters
6/8/2020 95.70 Spray bottles, extensions cords and hooks
6/8/2020 93.98 AO Plumbing Materials
6/8/2020 92.47 Insect repellent and sunsreen
6/8/2020 88.22 Shop Supplies
6/8/2020 87.98 AO Plumbing Supplies
6/8/2020 80.71 Restroom cleaning supplies
6/8/2020 80.00 Nat'l Assoc for Interpretation InterpTech Online Conf - Vuoso
6/8/2020 80.00 Nat'l Assoc Interpretation InterpTech Online Conf - Fitzsimons
6/8/2020 80.00 Nat'l Assoc for Interpretation InterpTech Online Conf - Tjosvold
6/8/2020 76.25 Batteries for marbled murrelet acoustic recording units
6/8/2020 75.00 LCW Webinar - COVID
6/8/2020 75.00 Family First Coronavirius Response Act Training - Basnight
6/8/2020 75.00 Reg Gov Services Leading Remote Teams webinar - Kern
6/8/2020 75.00 Reg Gov Services Leading Remote Teams webinar - MacKessy
6/8/2020 75.00 MB Pay Phone
6/8/2020 75.00 MMANC Annual Membership - Bazar
6/8/2020 74.34 FOOSP - Sanitation Service ADA
6/8/2020 71.33 DHF - Supplies for Manure Project
6/8/2020 70.71 Paint and supplies for parking lot striping project
6/8/2020 70.00 WH Annual Water Back - flow Prevention Assembly Inspection
6/8/2020 69.08 SFO Water chlorine system
6/8/2020 69.00 Online FTO Refresher Training - Hapke
6/8/2020 68.87 Parts for plexiglass installation at AO
6/8/2020 66.97 Waterline repair from house fire
6/8/2020 66.61 Adobe Acrobat DC x 1 licenses
6/8/2020 65.00 Webinar- Implementing an Electronic Content Mgmt System - Soria
6/8/2020 64.26 Purell Sanitizer Dispenser
6/8/2020 63.64 Hard hat face shield adapter
6/8/2020 63.55 Thermopile for furnace at Bergman guest house
6/8/2020 62.48 Misc shop supplies
6/8/2020 60.00 Rainwise Annual Renewal
6/8/2020 58.98 Wall Pockets
6/8/2020 58.91 Wiper blades for P108
6/8/2020 58.21 Parts for FFO mens room urinal
6/8/2020 55.16 Gas Charge Error - Reimbursement to Follow - Mort
6/8/2020 54.60 Laminating sheets
6/8/2020 54.56 Shop Supplies
6/8/2020 54.44 DHF - Supplies for Manure Project
6/8/2020 53.55 WH Water Meter
6/8/2020 53.12 Water Service for Rentals
6/8/2020 51.27 Spray bottles for vehicle disinfecting
6/8/2020 50.57 Zanfel - Poison Oak Treatment
6/8/2020 50.26 Laminating pouches
6/8/2020 50.19 Thumb drive
6/8/2020 50.00 Webinar - Leveraging Every Conversation - Soria
6/8/2020 50.00 Clerks Virtual Institute - Leveraging Conversations
6/8/2020 50.00 FFO Backup internet service
6/8/2020 50.00 Gordon Ridge SMC Notice of Exemption filing fee
6/8/2020 49.50 Web forms - May 2020
6/8/2020 49.16 Cleaning supplies
6/8/2020 49.01 Parts for pressure washer
6/8/2020 49.00 Social Media Management - May 2020
6/8/2020 48.45 Parts for plexiglass install at AO1
6/8/2020 43.66 Ratchet set for SAO
6/8/2020 42.55 Parts for plexiglass install at AO
6/8/2020 42.09 Sunscreen and febreze
6/8/2020 41.46 Supplies for Visitor Counters
6/8/2020 39.12 Cases of Water for visitor use
6/8/2020 39.00 Web PDF Viewer - May 2020
6/8/2020 38.35 Metal for restrooms
6/8/2020 38.20 DHF - Washing Machine Hose
6/8/2020 37.80 Shipped tool out for repair
6/8/2020 37.10 USB Microphones for laptops
6/8/2020 35.00 Webinar - Extraordinary Resilience Registration - Soria
6/8/2020 34.77 Grout Sealer for Shower
6/8/2020 33.70 Water for all Rangers Patrol Trucks/for Visitors
6/8/2020 31.64 Headlamp bulb for P98
6/8/2020 31.59 Water Heater Parts for DHF
6/8/2020 30.50 Fuel Stabilizer
6/8/2020 30.24 FOOSP - Water Service
6/8/2020 29.67 Putty for soldering
6/8/2020 29.40 Supplies for visitor counters (2 transactions)
6/8/2020 29.29 Website Analytics - May 2020
6/8/2020 29.17 M213 Hitch
6/8/2020 29.00 Midpen Webstore - May 2020
6/8/2020 28.63 2.5 Gallon Container for Cleaning Supplies
6/8/2020 28.42 5 Gallon Container for Cleaning Supplies
6/8/2020 27.30 Saw blades for plexiglass install at AO1
6/8/2020 27.23 Hardware for restrooms solar fans
6/8/2020 27.04 Plumbing parts house fire waterline repair
6/8/2020 26.20 Canycom Mower Wheel Bolts
6/8/2020 25.00 Stamps for SFO
6/8/2020 23.97 Rubber Boots for Cleaning Restrooms
6/8/2020 21.84 Outlet timer for SFOShop
6/8/2020 21.66 Surge protector for use as Nature Center
6/8/2020 19.86 Thermometer for Health Check
6/8/2020 19.65 CAO Spring water line repair
6/8/2020 19.00 Webinar - Registration fee PL Staff
6/8/2020 17.49 Sample items for store or promotion
6/8/2020 16.94 Temporary No Parking Signs
6/8/2020 16.45 Thermometer - B Downing
6/8/2020 16.38 Black ink for the printer I am using at home for work - Vargas
6/8/2020 15.96 Ongoing Subscription - LA Times
6/8/2020 14.44 Nuts-Bolts for Restroom Truck
6/8/2020 14.16 HDMI cable to connect laptop - Werner
6/8/2020 14.09 Thermometer
6/8/2020 11.99 Capacity upgrade for Dropbox account used for Board packets
6/8/2020 11.99 Capacity upgrade for Dropbox account used for Board packets
6/8/2020 10.00 Open Spaces Closed for Business Parks and Pandemic Reg - AGM
6/8/2020 10.00 Supply Chain Webinar
6/8/2020 9.53 Plumbing repair from house fire
6/8/2020 8.17 Bulb for Brake Light P113
6/8/2020 7.00 GIS help desk
6/8/2020 6.54 Hand Sanitation Bottles for Trucks/Heavy Equipment
6/8/2020 6.11 Lithium Grease for Deck Mower
6/8/2020 5.59 Padded Envelope and Postage - Mailed Tick to the lab
6/8/2020 5.00 UV Light Webinar
6/8/2020 5.00 Ca Science Teacher Assoc Webinar - COVID-19 distance learning
6/8/2020 5.00 California Science Teachers webinar - Tjosvold
6/8/2020 3.20 CAO Water System
6/8/2020 (16.94) Credit return from Zoro Tools
6/8/2020 (21.85) M24 - Return/Exchange Tow Hitch
6/8/2020 (26.88) Return of faucet parts
6/8/2020 (131.93) Return - Poison Oak Treatment
6/8/2020 (131.94) Return - Poison Oak Treatment
6/8/2020 (191.90) Credit for order for non-deliver - office closure
6/8/2020 (216,562.59) WFB Credit Card Charges May 2020
Rev. 1/3/18
R-20-74
Meeting 20-14
July 8, 2020
AGENDA ITEM 3
AGENDA ITEM
Award of Contract for Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting at Eight Mitigation Sites for Five
Years (2020-2024)
GENERAL MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATIONS
1. Authorize the General Manager to enter into contract with Vollmar Natural Lands Consulting
for the base contract price of $81,292 to monitor eight mitigation sites for five years.
2. Authorize an allowance of $20,000 to be expended only if additional mitigation sites require
monitoring and reporting over the next five years.
3. Authorize a 10% contingency of $8,130 to be expended only if the eight mitigation sites do
not meet permit success criteria, additional years of monitoring are required, and/or
additional coordination with the permitting agencies is necessary, for a not-to-exceed total
contract of $109,422.
SUMMARY
The Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District (District) has implemented capital improvement
projects that require permits from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), the
Regional Water Quality Board (RWQCB), and the United States Army Corps of Engineers
(USACE). Mitigation Monitoring Plans (MMPs) or Vegetation Restoration Plans (VRPs)
developed by the District or District Consultants, in consultation with permitting agencies,
outline required mitigation measures for potential temporary and/or permanent impacts related to
a project. The recommended 5-year contract will authorize Vollmar Natural Lands Consulting to
monitor and report on eight mitigation sites for five years for a base contract amount of $81,292.
In addition, the General Manager recommends authorizing an allowance of $20,000 to
accommodate any additional monitoring and reporting of newly installed mitigation sites in years
2021-2024, and a 10% contingency of $8,130 to be expended only if mitigation sites do not meet
permit success criteria, additional years of monitoring are required, and/or additional
coordination with the permitting agencies is necessary, for a total not-to-exceed contract amount
of $109,422. The Fiscal Year 2020-21 (FY21) budget includes sufficient funds to cover
expenditures through June 30, 2021. Funds to complete the contract work in future years will be
proposed as part of the annual Budget and Action Plan process.
DISCUSSION
Capital and operational projects that affect the natural environment have the potential to impact
native species and/or the jurisdictional areas regulated by the California Department of Fish and
R-20-74 Page 2
Wildlife (CDFW), and/or United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) mitigation measures and/or regulatory permits often require
biological surveys, documentation, and mitigation of potential impacts to natural resources,
including native plant restoration to reestablish normal ecological function. Some of this work
has been implemented under Routine Maintenance Agreements (i.e. a broad permit with
generalized mitigation conditions) and others have obtained individual permits (i.e. a specific
permit with specific mitigation conditions).
Mitigation Monitoring Plans (MMPs) or Vegetation Restoration Plans (VRPs) developed by the
District or District Consultants, in consultation with permitting agencies, outline required
mitigation measures for potential temporary and/or permanent impacts related to a project. These
measures often include native plantings to restore ecological functions. The associated
mitigation monitoring of installed vegetation and site conditions are reported to permitting
agencies for five to ten years, or more, after a project is completed. The monitoring reports
document native vegetation and ecological function reestablishment at the sites and any
necessary adaptive management measures to ensure all permit conditions and MMP success
criteria are achieved.
The following tasks are included under the recommended 5-year agreement for Mitigation
Monitoring and Reporting at Eight Mitigation Sites to ensure permit conditions and MMP
success criteria are met at each Mitigation Site:
• Review permits and permit conditions to confirm monitoring and reporting requirements;
• Annually conduct mitigation site monitoring of installed vegetation and site conditions;
• Recommend adaptive management actions to ensure success criteria are met;
• Prepare Draft Mitigation Monitoring Reports for District review;
• Prepare Final Mitigation Monitoring Reports to submit to permitting agencies.
The following projects require mitigation monitoring and reporting to be compliant with permit
conditions and fulfill mitigation requirements:
Table 1: Mitigation projects requiring monitoring and reporting under this contract
Project
Site # Site Name Open Space
Preserve Project Type Project
Site Size Project Description
1 Mount Umunhum
Trail Sierra Azul Mitigation 8,700 ft² Permit requirements for Mount
Umunhum Trail bridges
2 Woods Trail Sierra Azul Mitigation 12,000 ft² Permit requirements for Mount
Umunhum Trail bridges
3 Tree Farm Bear Creek
Redwoods Mitigation 3.76 acres Permit requirements for the new
public access parking lot
4 Mud Lake Bear Creek
Redwoods Mitigation 1,080 ft2 Permit conditions for
installation of new culvert
5 Stables Bear Creek
Redwoods Mitigation 10,000 ft2 Riparian Tree Removals for
Fuel Management Work
6 Webb Creek Bear Creek
Redwoods Mitigations 2,271 ft2 Permit conditions for new
bridge
7 Stevens Creek
Nature Trail Monte Bello Mitigation 3,200 ft² Permit conditions for bridge and
trail improvements
8 Harkins Bridge
Purisima
Creek
Redwoods
Mitigation 10,890 ft² Permit conditions for new
bridge
R-20-74 Page 3
District staff are not available to perform this work due to the ongoing commitments for Measure
AA and Vision Plan projects, and to complete core job responsibilities.
Contractor Selection
A Request for Qualifications and Proposals (RFPQ) was sent to 13 consultants and posted on the
District website on May 5, 2020. Two addenda were issued. Seven proposals were received.
Three District staff from two departments ranked proposals based on the quality of the proposal,
including the consistency with the objectives, ability to demonstrate an understanding of the
project, fulfilling proposal requirements, and overall presentation. In addition, the proposals were
ranked on the implementation approach and ability to meet the project schedule. Proposal fees
for the base contract ranged from $69,466 to $125,474.
After a careful review of all the proposals, District staff determined Vollmar Natural Lands
Consulting to be the most qualified and cost-effective consultant to conduct the mitigation
monitoring and reporting. Vollmar Natural Lands Consulting submitted their base contract
proposal at a cost of $69,466. After Vollmar Natural Lands Consulting’s proposal was selected,
Addendum 2 was issued to include monitoring and reporting for the Bear Creek Redwoods
Stables Mitigation Site also for 5-years, for a fee of $11,826, bringing the revised Project base
cost total to $81,292.
The base cost for this service is $81,292 over a 5-year period. In addition, the General Manager
recommends an allowance in the amount of $20,000 to accommodate any mitigation monitoring
and reporting for additional Projects that may require installation of plants at mitigation sites in
future years, and a 10% contingency of $8,130 to be expended only if mitigation sites do not
meet permit success criteria, additional years of monitoring are required, and/or additional
coordination with the regulatory agencies is necessary, for a total not-to-exceed contract amount
of $109,422.
FISCAL IMPACT
There are sufficient funds in the Fiscal Year 2020-21 budget to cover the cost of the
recommendation. Funds to complete the work will be recommended in future fiscal year budgets
as a part of the annual Budget and Action Plan process.
The recommended action is not funded by Measure AA.
BOARD COMMITTEE REVIEW
This item was not previously reviewed by a Board committee.
PUBLIC NOTICE
Public notice was provided as required by the Brown Act. Public notice was sent to the
Resource Management interested parties lists by postal or electronic mail.
R-20-74 Page 4
CEQA COMPLIANCE
This item is not a project subject to the California Environmental Quality Act. The work
performed by the consultant under the proposed contract will help ensure that the District fulfills
its CEQA mitigation monitoring commitments for Projects that are otherwise complete.
NEXT STEPS
Upon approval by the Board of Directors, the General Manager will execute an agreement with
Vollmar Natural Lands Consulting to complete mitigation monitoring and reporting at eight
mitigation sites for five years. Natural Resources department staff will continue to work with the
Engineering and Construction, Land and Facilities, and Planning departments to design projects
that avoid and/or minimize the impacts of capital and operational projects and reduce the amount
of required future mitigation work and associated monitoring and reporting.
Attachment
1. Project Locations
Responsible Department Head:
Kirk Lenington, Natural Resources Department
Prepared by:
Amanda Mills, Resource Management Specialist II
P U R I S I M A
C R E E K
R E D W O O D S
M I R A M O N T E S
R I D G E
T U N I TA S
C R E E K
E L C O R T E
D E M A D E R A
C R E E K
T E A G U E
H I L L
T H O R N E W O O D
L A H O N D A
C R E E K
W I N D Y
H I L L
C O A L
C R E E K
L O N G
R I D G E
B E A R
C R E E K
R E D W O O D S
S I E R R A
A Z U L
M O N T E
B E L L O
R A N C H O S A N
A N T O N I O
F R E M O N T
O L D E R
P I C C H E T T I
R A N C H
S A R AT O G A
G A P
S K Y L I N E
R I D G E
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S E R E N O
J O S E P H ’ S
H I L L
S T E V E N S C R E E K
S H O R E L I N E N AT U R E
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R U S S I A N
R I D G E
Purisima Creek Redwoods
8.Harkins Bridge
Monte Bello
7.Stevens Creek Nature Trail
Bear Creek Redwoods
3.Tree Farm
4.Mud Lake
5.Stables
6.Webb Creek
Sierra Azul
1. Mount Umunhum Trail
2. Woods Trail
Midpeninsula Regional
Open Space District
(Midpen)
6/12/2020
Mitigation Monitoring Sites
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MilesIPrivate Property
While the District strives to use the best available digital data, these data do not represent a legal survey and are merely a graphic illustration of geographic features.
Other Protected Lands
!(Revegetation SiteMROSD Preserve
ATTACHMENT 1
Rev. 1/3/18
R-20-66
Meeting 20-14
July 8, 2020
AGENDA ITEM 4
AGENDA ITEM
Award of Contract to Andreini Brothers for the ADA Barrier Removal Project at Russian Ridge,
Monte Bello, and Windy Hill Open Space Preserves
GENERAL MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATIONS
1. Authorize the General Manager to enter into a contract with Andreini Brothers of Half Moon
Bay, CA, for the base amount of $429,504.
2. Authorize a 13% contingency of $55,836 to be reserved for unanticipated issues, bringing the
total contract to a not-to-exceed amount of $485,340.
SUMMARY
The ADA Barrier Removal Project (Project) will replace existing dilapidated restrooms and
install accessible parking and pathways at Russian Ridge, Monte Bello, and Windy Hill Open
Space Preserves. The Project includes American with Disabilities Act (ADA)-complaint
upgrades to restrooms, accessible parking stalls, pathways, signage, drainage infrastructure, and
split-rail fences. Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District (District) staff issued a Request for
Bids on May 6, 2020 and received eight (8) bid proposals on June 3, 2020, with GradeTech Inc.
(GradeTech) announced as the apparent low bidder. Subsequently, Andreini Brothers, the
second low bidder, protested that GradeTech’s bid proposal is incomplete and should be rejected
as non-responsive. Upon reviewing the Bid Proposals and following the Bid Protest procedures
set forth in the District’s Instructions to Bidders, the General Manager determined that
GradeTech’s bid is indeed non-responsive and recommends awarding a contract to Andreini
Brothers as the lowest responsive and responsible bidder, for a base amount of $429,504 and
authorizing a 13% contingency amount of $55,836. There are sufficient funds to complete the
recommendations in the fiscal year 2020-21 (FY21) budget.
BACKGROUND
In May 2019, the District completed the ADA Self-Evaluation and Transition Plan Update
(Transition Plan), which evaluated the conditions of District facilities and preserves with current
ADA codes and standards (R-19-38). From the Transition Plan’s evaluations and
recommendations, the annual ADA Barrier Removal Project was created to systematically
remove accessibility barriers at District facilities and preserves. In general, projects include
modernization and ADA upgrades to restrooms, accessible parking and pathways, easy access
trails, signage, facilities, and other amenities. The District tracks and reports annual
accomplishments of completed projects and tasks to the Board of Directors (Board) as part of the
annual ADA Transition Plan implementation update starting winter of 2021. To date, the Land
R-20-66 Page 2
and Facilities (L&F) Department has completed a number of ADA Transition Plan
recommendations to upgrade stiles and adjust restroom doors throughout District preserves for
improved accessibility.
For the FY20 ADA Barrier Removal Project, staff prioritized the replacement of three
dilapidated restrooms and accessible parking stalls based on input from the L&F Department. In
December 2019, the District hired engineering consultants to generate construction documents
for the restroom and parking lot improvements. The consultants completed the design early this
year. District staff submitted plans for permitting and is currently waiting for final approval. In
May 2020, the Board approved the purchase of the Project’s three (3) CXT ADA-compliant
prefabricated vault restrooms to be installed by a separate contractor (R-20-46). Within the past
five years, the District has successfully installed CXT Restrooms at La Honda Creek, Bear Creek
Redwoods, and Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserves.
DISCUSSION
The Project will upgrade and improve ADA accessibility at Russian Ridge, Monte Bello, and
Windy Hill Open Space Preserves parking areas. Construction includes removing existing
dilapidated single-stall vault restrooms, installing new double stall ADA and California Building
Code compliant CXT vault restrooms, installing ADA parking stalls, and constructing ADA
accessible paths from parking stalls to restrooms. In addition, the recommendations include
demolition, minor grading, concrete work, drainage infrastructure, striping and pavement
markings, split rail fencing and signage. The proposed improvements will provide the required
number of ADA parking stalls at each parking site consistent with current ADA requirements
and remove a number of ADA barriers identified in the ADA Transition Plan.
The Project sites are located within the jurisdiction of the City of Palo Alto, Town of Portola
Valley, San Mateo County, and Santa Clara County. Staff submitted for permits from these
agencies, including building permits, demolition permits, and architectural design review. The
District has already obtained permits from the Town of Portola Valley and anticipates receiving
the remaining permits prior to the commencement of construction.
In summary, the scope of work under the recommended contract includes the following
improvements:
• Remove three dilapidated restrooms and excavate vault pits to receive three new CXT
double vault restrooms;
• Eight ADA accessible parking stalls;
• Pavement striping;
• Seven ADA curb ramps;
• 250 lineal feet of concrete pathways from parking stalls to restrooms and trailhead; and
• Parking lot drainage.
CONTRACTOR SELECTION
A Request for Bids was issued on May 6, 2020 via BidSync and released to four builders’
exchanges. Legal notices were posted in the San Jose Mercury News and San Mateo County
Times, and a link to the solicitation was posted on the District website. An optional pre-bid
meeting was held on May 19, 2020 with seven total contractors in attendance.
R-20-66 Page 3
The District publicly opened the bids on June 3, 2020 and announced GradeTech Inc., as the
apparent low bidder. The detailed breakdown of the eight (8) bids received is as follows:
Bidder Location Total Base Bid
Percent +/- from
District’s Estimate
($470,000)*
1. GradeTech Inc. San Ramon, CA $427,040 -9%
2. Andreini Brothers Half Moon Bay, CA $429,504 -9%
3. MVC Enterprises Inc. Temecula, CA $432,828 -8%
4. Burch Construction San Francisco, CA $465,027 -1%
5. NBC Construction &
Engineering Inc. San Francisco, CA $478,288 +2%
6. Graniterock Company Watsonville, CA $485,457 +3%
7. Lewis & Tibbits San Jose, CA $510,879 +9%
8. Yerba Buena Engineering Inc. San Francisco, CA $535,400 +14%
*Estimate was prepared by District staff for budgeting purposes. The estimate was informed by data base numbers
on file from previous projects.
Andreini Brothers submitted a timely bid protest on June 10, 2020, stating that GradeTech did
not sign the corporate resolution as required on the Instructions to Bidders and Bid Proposal
Form, therefore, their bid should be rejected as non-responsive and the Project should be
awarded to Andreini Brothers, the second lowest bidder. The District issued a protest notice to
GradeTech on June 12, 2020, and GradeTech responded and provided a corporate resolution on
June 15, 2020, well after the complete bid proposal was due.
A responsive bid within the meaning of state contract law is one that, on its face, is in
compliance with all of the requirements set forth in the bid documents. The District’s
Instructions to Bidders and Bid Proposal Form requires bidders to provide a corporate resolution.
GradeTech submitted a bid that lacked this required form by the due date. After a careful review
of all the bid documents, GradeTech’s bid was subsequently deemed as being not in full
compliance with all of the requirements set forth in the bid documents and therefore not
responsive.
Upon reviewing the Bid Proposals and following the Bid Protest procedures set forth in the
District’s Instructions to Bidders, the General Manager recommends awarding the contract to
Andreini Brothers as the lowest responsive and responsible bidder. In addition, the General
Manager recommends a 13% contingency be reserved for unanticipated issues.
FISCAL IMPACT
The FY21 budget includes $487,000 for the ADA Barrier Removal Project #31901. The FY21
budget also includes $42,350 in gift funds for work specifically in the Windy Hill Open Space
Preserve from the Peninsula Open Space Trust. There are sufficient funds in the project budget to
cover the recommended action and expenditures.
R-20-66 Page 4
ADA Barrier Removal
31901
Prior Year
Actuals*
FY20
Amended
FY21
Projected
FY22
Projected
Estimated
Future
Years
TOTAL
District Funded: $439 $223,500 $444,650 $1,433,500 $0 $2,102,089
Gift from POST: $0 $0 $42,350 $0 $0 $42,350
Total Budget: $439 $223,500 $487,000 $1,433,500 $0 $2,144,439
Spent-to-Date
(as of 6/5/2020): ($439) ($111,328) $0 $0 $0 ($111,767)
Encumbrances: $0 ($1,655) $0 $0 $0 ($1,655)
Andreini Brothers.
award of contract: $0 $0 ($429,504) $0 $0 ($429,504)
13% Contingency: $0 $0 ($55,836) $0 $0 ($55,836)
Budget Remaining
(Proposed): $0 $110,517 $1,660 $1,433,500 $0 $1,545,677
*Prior Year Actuals for the R-20-46 board report (Award of Contract to LB Foster Company for Prefabricated Vault
Restrooms to be Installed at Russian Ridge, Monte Bello, and Windy Hill Open Space Preserves) were overstated
using budgeted numbers.
The recommended action is not funded by Measure AA.
BOARD COMMITTEE REVIEW
No Committee review has previously occurred for the recommended award of contract
PUBLIC NOTICE
Public notice was provided as required by the Brown Act.
CEQA COMPLIANCE
In accordance with the State California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines, the
proposed project is categorically exempt from CEQA under Section 15302, Replacement or
Reconstruction of existing facilities and structures, and Section 15304, Minor Alterations to
Land. This exemption consists of minor public or private alterations in the condition of land,
water, and/or vegetation which do not involve removal of healthy, mature, scenic tree. District
staff filed Notices of Exemption with San Mateo County on January 27, 2020 and Santa Clara
County on January 28, 2020.
NEXT STEPS
If approved, the General Manager will enter into a contract with Andreini Brothers. Final
contract signature is subject to meeting all District requirements, such as having all required
insurance and bonding in place. Construction will begin July 2020 and be completed by
November 2020.
Attachment:
1. Project Site Map
Responsible Department Head:
Jason Lin, Engineering and Construction Department Manager
R-20-66 Page 5
Prepared by:
Sean Smith, Capital Project Manager II, Engineering and Construction Department
Graphics prepared by:
Francisco Lopez Tapia, GIS Technician, Information Systems and Technology Department
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C O A L C R E E K
O P E N S P A C E
P R E S E R V E
F O O T H I L L S
O P E N S P A C E
P R E S E R V E
L A H O N D A
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S P A C E P R E S E R V E
L O S T R A N C O S
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P R E S E R V E
M O N T E B E L L O
O P E N S P A C E
P R E S E R V E
R U S S I A N
R I D G E O P E N
S P A C E P R E S E R V E
W I N D Y H I L L
O P E N S P A C E
P R E S E R V E
S K Y L I N E R I D G E
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R A N C H O S A N
A N T O N I O O P E N
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Midpeninsula Regional
Open Space District
(Midpen)
5/4/2020
A: Project Location Map
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MilesI
MROSD Preserves
Private Property
While the District strives to use the best available digital data, these data do not represent a legal survey and are merely a graphic illustration of geographic features.
Parking Lot
Area of
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Mountain View
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Cupertino
Saratoga
Sunnyvale
Other Protected Lands
ATTACHMENT 1
R-20-72
Meeting 20-14
July 8, 2020
AGENDA ITEM 5
AGENDA ITEM
Establish the Fiscal Year 2021 Tax Levy for the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District’s
General Obligation Bonds - Series 2015A, Series 2015B, and Series 2018
GENERAL MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION
Adopt Resolutions of the Board of Directors of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
for each of San Mateo, Santa Clara, and Santa Cruz Counties to establish an ad valorem property
tax levy of $1.50 per $100,000 (or $0.0015 per $100) in assessed value for the General
Obligation Bonds – Series 2015A, Series 2015B, and Series 2018 (Measure AA).
SUMMARY
On June 3, 2014, voters of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District (District) approved
the passage of Measure AA authorizing the District to issue up to $300 million of general
obligation bonds (Bonds) over thirty years to finance Measure AA capital projects. In 2015, the
District issued $40,000,000 of tax-exempt bonds (Series A) and $5,000,000 of taxable bonds
(Series B). The District subsequently issued $50,000,000 of tax-exempt bonds in February 2018.
The proposed Fiscal Year 2021 tax levy of $0.0015 per $100, or $1.50 per $100,000 in assessed
value, will provide the District with sufficient revenues to pay the related debt service payments
through September 2021.
DISCUSSION
Debt service payments on the Bonds are paid through a tax levy on all taxable property within
the District. Each year, the levy is calculated based on the assessed value and the debt service
amount the District needs to collect. The evolution of the tax levy is as follows:
FY16 $.0008 per $100 of assessed valuation
FY17 $.0006 per $100 of assessed valuation
FY18 $.0009 per $100 of assessed valuation
FY19 $.0018 per $100 of assessed valuation
FY20 $.0016 per $100 of assessed valuation
FY21 $.0015 per $100 of assessed valuation
Based on the debt service schedule for the Bonds, and tax revenue projections provided by the
District’s Tax Administration Consultant (Goodwin Consulting Group), the Board is asked to
approve resolutions for each of the three Counties authorizing the placement of an ad valorem
property tax levy of $0.0015 per $100, or $1.50 per $100,000 in assessed value.
R-20-72
Page 2
FISCAL IMPACT
The establishment of the ad valorem property tax levy will provide the District with sufficient
revenues to pay the scheduled debt service payments on related debt service September 1, 2020,
March 1, 2021, and September 1, 2021.
BOARD COMMITTEE REVIEW
This item was not previously reviewed by a Board Committee.
PUBLIC NOTICE
Notice was provided pursuant to the Brown Act. No additional notice is necessary.
CEQA COMPLIANCE
No compliance is required as this action is not a project under CEQA.
NEXT STEPS
If approved by the Board, the General Manager will direct staff to forward the resolutions to the
relevant departments and Board of Supervisors of each County for inclusion in the 2020-2021
property tax bills.
Attachments:
1. Resolution of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District Setting the Tax Rate on
Voter Approved General Obligation Bonds – County of San Mateo
2. Resolution of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District Setting the Tax Rate on
Voter Approved General Obligation Bonds – County of Santa Clara
3. Resolution of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District Setting the Tax Rate on
Voter Approved General Obligation Bonds – County of Santa Cruz
Responsible Department Head:
Stefan Jaskulak, Chief Financial Officer/Director of Administrative Services
Prepared by:
Andrew Taylor, Finance Manager
Resolutions/2019/19-___SMC Measure AA Levy 1
RESOLUTION NO. 20-____
A RESOLUTION OF THE MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE
DISTRICT SETTING THE 2020-21 TAX RATE FOR SAN MATEO
COUNTY ON VOTER APPROVED GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS
______________________________________________________________________________
WHEREAS, the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District (the “District”) is a regional
open space district that includes territory in each of the County of San Mateo, the County of Santa
Clara and the County of Santa Cruz (each, a “County”; collectively, the “Counties”); and
WHEREAS, the District is empowered to issue general obligation bonds that are
authorized by two-thirds of the qualified electors of the District pursuant to Article 3 (commencing
with Section 5500) of Chapter 3 of Division 5 of the Public Resources Code and Article 4.5,
commencing with Section 53506, of Chapter 3 of Part 1 of Division 2 of Title 5 of the Government
Code of the State of California (collectively, the “Act”); and
WHEREAS, a special bond election was duly and regularly held in the District on June 3,
2014, for the purpose of submitting a ballot measure to the qualified electors of the District (the
"2014 Authorization"), and more than two-thirds of the votes cast at the election approved the
issuance of up to $300 million of general obligation bonds to finance certain projects specified in
the 2014 Authorization; and
WHEREAS, for the purpose of financing the projects authorized by the 2014
Authorization (the “Projects”), by its Resolution No. 15-19, the District issued General Obligation
Bonds, Series 2015, Series A and Series B for the aggregate amount of $45,000,000 pursuant to
the Act. By Resolution No. 17-31, the District further issued General Obligation Bonds, Series
2018 for the aggregate amount of $50,000,000; and
WHEREAS, Section 5569 of the Public Resources Code provides that, for the purpose of
paying all sums coming due for principal and interest on all bonds of the District, there shall be
levied and collected each year a tax sufficient to pay the annual interest on such bonds and, also,
that part of the principal which will become due before the time for setting the next general tax
levy; and
WHEREAS, Section 5571 of the Public Resources Code provides that the Board of
Supervisors of the County of San Mateo, at the time of making the general tax levy in each year,
levy a tax upon all the real and personal property within the District and within its respective
County at a rate sufficient to meet the proportion of taxes necessary to be raised in the County for
the purpose of paying the principal and interest of the bonds and other indebtedness of the District;
and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Board of Directors of the
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, as follows:
SECTION 1. Levy of Tax. The Board of Directors of the District hereby determines
that the tax rate necessary to pay the principal and interest on the Bonds coming due and payable
on September 1, 2020, March 1, 2021, and September 1, 2021 is $0.0015 per $100 of assessed
ATTACHMENT 1
Resolutions/2019/19-___SMC Measure AA Levy 2
valuation, and such tax rate shall be and is hereby levied in accordance with all applicable
requirements of law.
SECTION 2. Collection of Tax. The Controller is hereby directed to forward a copy of
this Resolution to the Controller of the San Mateo County, and to the Board of Supervisors of the
County, and to take such actions and execute such documents as may be required to cause the tax
rate set forth in Section 1 to be placed on the 2020-2021 property tax bill and collected by the
County.
SECTION 3. Effective Date. This Resolution shall take effect from and after the date
of its passage and adoption.
PASSED AND ADOPTED by the Board of Directors of the Midpeninsula Regional
Open Space District on ______, 2020, at a Regular Meeting thereof, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
ATTEST: APPROVED:
Secretary
Board of Directors
President
Board of Directors
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
General Counsel
I, the District Clerk of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, hereby certify
that the above is a true and correct copy of a resolution duly adopted by the Board of Directors
of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District by the above vote at a meeting thereof duly
held and called on the above day.
District Clerk
Resolutions/2019/19-___SCC Measure AA Levy 1
RESOLUTION NO. 20-___
A RESOLUTION OF THE MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE
DISTRICT SETTING THE 2020-21 TAX RATE FOR SANTA CLARA
COUNTY ON VOTER APPROVED GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS
______________________________________________________________________________
WHEREAS, the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District (the “District”) is a regional
open space district that includes territory in each of the County of San Mateo, the County of Santa
Clara and the County of Santa Cruz (each, a “County”; collectively, the “Counties”); and
WHEREAS, the District is empowered to issue general obligation bonds that are
authorized by two-thirds of the qualified electors of the District pursuant to Article 3 (commencing
with Section 5500) of Chapter 3 of Division 5 of the Public Resources Code and Article 4.5,
commencing with Section 53506, of Chapter 3 of Part 1 of Division 2 of Title 5 of the Government
Code of the State of California (collectively, the “Act”); and
WHEREAS, a special bond election was duly and regularly held in the District on June 3,
2014, for the purpose of submitting a ballot measure to the qualified electors of the District (the
"2014 Authorization"), and more than two-thirds of the votes cast at the election approved the
issuance of up to $300 million of general obligation bonds to finance certain projects specified in
the 2014 Authorization; and
WHEREAS, for the purpose of financing the projects authorized by the 2014
Authorization (the “Projects”), by its Resolution No. 15-19, the District issued General Obligation
Bonds, Series 2015, Series A and Series B for the aggregate amount of $45,000,000 pursuant to
the Act. By Resolution No. 17-31, the District further issued General Obligation Bonds, Series
2018 for the aggregate amount of $50,000,000; and
WHEREAS, Section 5569 of the Public Resources Code provides that, for the purpose of
paying all sums coming due for principal and interest on all bonds of the District, there shall be
levied and collected each year a tax sufficient to pay the annual interest on such bonds and, also,
that part of the principal which will become due before the time for setting the next general tax
levy; and
WHEREAS, Section 5571 of the Public Resources Code provides that the Board of
Supervisors of the County of Santa Clara, at the time of making the general tax levy in each year,
levy a tax upon all the real and personal property within the District and within its respective
County at a rate sufficient to meet the proportion of taxes necessary to be raised in the County for
the purpose of paying the principal and interest of the bonds and other indebtedness of the District.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Board of Directors of the
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, as follows:
SECTION 1. Levy of Tax. The Board of Directors of the District hereby determines
that the tax rate necessary to pay the principal and interest on the Bonds coming due and payable
on September 1, 2020, March 1, 2021, and September 1, 2021 is $0.0015 per $100 of assessed
ATTACHMENT 2
Resolutions/2019/19-___SCC Measure AA Levy 2
valuation, and such tax rate shall be and is hereby levied in accordance with all applicable
requirements of law.
SECTION 2. Collection of Tax. The Controller is hereby directed to forward a copy of
this Resolution to the Controller-Treasurer of the County of Santa Clara, and to the Board of
Supervisors of the County, and to take such actions and execute such documents as may be
required to cause the tax rate set forth in Section 1 to be placed on the 2020-2021 property tax
bill and collected by the County.
SECTION 3. Effective Date. This Resolution shall take effect from and after the date
of its passage and adoption.
PASSED AND ADOPTED by the Board of Directors of the Midpeninsula Regional
Open Space District on ______, 2020, at a Regular Meeting thereof, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
ATTEST: APPROVED:
Secretary
Board of Directors
President
Board of Directors
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
General Counsel
I, the District Clerk of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, hereby certify
that the above is a true and correct copy of a resolution duly adopted by the Board of Directors
of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District by the above vote at a meeting thereof duly
held and called on the above day.
District Clerk
Resolutions/2019/19-___SCrC Measure AA Levy 1
RESOLUTION NO. 20-____
A RESOLUTION OF THE MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE
DISTRICT SETTING THE 2020-21 TAX RATE FOR SANTA CRUZ
COUNTY ON VOTER APPROVED GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS
______________________________________________________________________________
WHEREAS, the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District (the “District”) is a regional
open space district that includes territory in each of the County of San Mateo, the County of Santa
Clara and the County of Santa Cruz (each, a “County”; collectively, the “Counties”); and
WHEREAS, the District is empowered to issue general obligation bonds that are
authorized by two-thirds of the qualified electors of the District pursuant to Article 3 (commencing
with Section 5500) of Chapter 3 of Division 5 of the Public Resources Code and Article 4.5,
commencing with Section 53506, of Chapter 3 of Part 1 of Division 2 of Title 5 of the Government
Code of the State of California (collectively, the “Act”); and
WHEREAS, a special bond election was duly and regularly held in the District on June 3,
2014, for the purpose of submitting a ballot measure to the qualified electors of the District (the
"2014 Authorization"), and more than two-thirds of the votes cast at the election approved the
issuance of up to $300 million of general obligation bonds to finance certain projects specified in
the 2014 Authorization; and
WHEREAS, for the purpose of financing the projects authorized by the 2014
Authorization (the “Projects”), by its Resolution No. 15-19, the District issued General Obligation
Bonds, Series 2015, Series A and Series B for the aggregate amount of $45,000,000 pursuant to
the Act. By Resolution No. 17-31, the District further issued General Obligation Bonds, Series
2018 for the aggregate amount of $50,000,000; and
WHEREAS, Section 5569 of the Public Resources Code provides that, for the purpose of
paying all sums coming due for principal and interest on all bonds of the District, there shall be
levied and collected each year a tax sufficient to pay the annual interest on such bonds and, also,
that part of the principal which will become due before the time for setting the next general tax
levy; and
WHEREAS, Section 5571 of the Public Resources Code provides that the Board of
Supervisors of the County of Santa Cruz, at the time of making the general tax levy in each year,
levy a tax upon all the real and personal property within the District and within its respective
County at a rate sufficient to meet the proportion of taxes necessary to be raised in the County for
the purpose of paying the principal and interest of the bonds and other indebtedness of the District.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Board of Directors of the
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, as follows:
SECTION 1. Levy of Tax. The Board of Directors of the District hereby determines
that the tax rate necessary to pay the principal and interest on the Bonds coming due and payable
on September 1, 2020, March 1, 2021, and September 1, 2021 is $0.0015 per $100 of assessed
ATTACHMENT 3
Resolutions/2019/19-___SCrC Measure AA Levy 2
valuation, and such tax rate shall be and is hereby levied in accordance with all applicable
requirements of law.
SECTION 2. Collection of Tax. The Controller is hereby directed to forward a copy of
this Resolution to the Auditor-Controller of the County of Santa Cruz, and to the Board of
Supervisors of the County, and to take such actions and execute such documents as may be
required to cause the tax rate set forth in Section 1 to be placed on the 2020-2021 property tax
bill and collected by the County.
SECTION 3. Effective Date. This Resolution shall take effect from and after the date
of its passage and adoption.
PASSED AND ADOPTED by the Board of Directors of the Midpeninsula Regional
Open Space District on ______, 2020, at a Regular Meeting thereof, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
ATTEST: APPROVED:
Secretary
Board of Directors
President
Board of Directors
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
General Counsel
I, the District Clerk of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, hereby certify
that the above is a true and correct copy of a resolution duly adopted by the Board of Directors
of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District by the above vote at a meeting thereof duly
held and called on the above day.
District Clerk
R-20-73
Meeting 20-14
July 8, 2020
AGENDA ITEM 6
AGENDA ITEM
Review of 2020 State of California Legislative Session – Board of Directors Briefing on Matters
of Interest to Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
GENERAL MANAGER’S RECOMMENDATION
Receive and discuss the 2020 State of California legislative session update from legislative
consultants: Public Policy Advocates LLC and Environmental and Energy Consulting. No Board
action required.
SUMMARY
Representatives from Public Policy Advocates LLC (PPA) and Environmental and Energy
Consulting (EEC) will provide a legislative briefing on the current 2020 State of California
legislative session. The briefing will include an overview of the most significant actions taken
during the session, particularly in light of the impacts to the state as a result of COVID-19, and
provide predictions for the remainder of the session. The Board of Directors (Board) last
received a briefing on the 2019 legislative session on October 24, 2019.
DISCUSSION
The 2020 Legislative Program, which the Board approved at its February 12, 2020 meeting,
reflects Board policy positions on a variety of issues affecting the Midpeninsula Regional Open
Space District (District), its mission, and its annual strategic goals. The Legislative Program has
guided the determination of priority legislation to track during the year. Staff and the District’s
legislative consultants actively use the Legislative Program to communicate District positions on
bills, budget recommendations, and other legislative items to the respective authors and/or
legislative committees as appropriate. Throughout the 2020 session, staff has fielded time-
sensitive requests from partners and monitored evolving pieces of legislation based on Board
Policy 1.11 (attachment 1). Legislation deemed a priority by the Board pursuant to this policy is
tracked, and, when appropriate, either supported or opposed (attachment 2).
COVID-19 and California Shelter-in-Place
In response to the rising threat of COVID-19, Governor Newsom initiated a statewide shelter-in-
place order on March 19, 2020, effectively shutting down all “nonessential” activities across the
state. The State Senate and Assembly initiated a joint recess that concluded May 4 for the
Assembly and May 11 for the Senate. Due to the compressed timeline and magnitude of the
crisis, both houses have significantly reduced the slate of bills under consideration, which has
impacted the list of priority bills promoted by the District. The District’s legislative consultants
R-20-73 Page 2
will discuss the outcome of the FY21 budget process and the prospects for legislation for the
remainder of the legislative session (Attachment 3).
Legislative Categories
In addition to their written reports (Attachments 4 and 5), EEC and PPA may discuss legislation
and topics including, but not limited to, the following:
• California budget
• Potential state funding measures
• Cap and trade/Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund/Climate change
• Wildlife corridors
• Water legislation
• Wildfire prevention/forest health legislation
• Governor’s executive orders and implications
• Workers compensation
• Other COVID-19-related legislation
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no fiscal impact associated with this briefing.
BOARD COMMITTEE REVIEW
Legislative updates are periodically brought to the Legislative, Funding, and Public Affairs
Committee (LFPAC) throughout each year. The most recent LFPAC review was June 11, 2019.
PUBLIC NOTICE
Public notice was provided as required by the Brown Act. No additional notice is required.
CEQA COMPLIANCE
This item is not a project subject to the California Environmental Quality Act.
NEXT STEPS
The Governmental Affairs Specialist will bring legislative items and proposals to LFPAC and
the Board as needed throughout the remainder of the 2020 legislative session.
Attachments:
1. Board Policy 1.11, Positions on Ballot Measures and Legislative Advocacy
2. 2020 Priority Bill Legislative Status as of July 1, 2020
3. Amended state legislative calendar
4. EEC Budget Update – June 23, 2020
5. PPA Funding Questions Update – June 23, 2020
Responsible Department Head:
Korrine Skinner, Public Affairs Manager
Prepared by:
Joshua Hugg, Governmental Affairs Specialist
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
Board Policy Manual
Positions on Ballot Measures
and Legislative Advocacy
Policy 1.11
Chapter 1 – Administration and Government
Effective Date: 4/13/16 Revised Date: N/A
Prior Versions: N/A
Board Policy 1.11 Page 1 of 3
Purpose
To establish a policy governing positions on local and state ballot measures/propositions and
state and federal legislative advocacy. It is intended to cover all matters before the Legislature
and the voters.
Definitions
For the purposes of the Positions on Ballot Measures and Legislative Advocacy policy, the
following terms and definitions shall be used:
Measure – may be included on a municipal, county, or district ballot and includes
ordinances, initiatives, referenda, advisory measures, issuance or refunding of bonds, city or
county charter amendments, or any other measure or proposition a legislative body may
submit to the voters within the body’s jurisdiction.
Ballot Proposition – can be a referendum or an initiative measure that is submitted to the
electorate for a direct decision or direct vote. Propositions may be placed on the ballot by
the California State Legislature or by a qualifying petition signed by registered voters.
Initiative – power of the electors to propose legislation, and to adopt or reject them. Any
proposed ordinance may be submitted to the legislative body by means of a petition.
Referendum – applies to the process for repealing newly enacted legislation. Within
specified time limits, the electors may file a petition protesting the adoption of that
legislation.
Local Legislation – typically ordinances, which are the laws of a city, charter, or district,
often having the force of law, but only within the local jurisdiction.
State or Federal Legislation – bills or proposed legislation under consideration by the
legislature at the state or federal level.
ATTACHMENT 1
Board Policy 1.11 Page 2 of 3
Policy
1. Positions on Matters Before the Voters
a. From time to time the Board of Directors may be asked or may desire to take a
position on local or state measures. The Board may consider taking a position on the
measure/proposition if the measure/proposition:
i. Would directly impact the District’s finances, responsibilities, legal authority,
or operations; AND
ii. Is in line with or inconsistent with the District’s mission and/or commitment
to preserve open space within its boundaries and sphere of influence.
The Board, by majority vote, may direct the General Manager to research the
measure/proposition and return to the Board at a future meeting with information
and a General Manager recommendation. At that time, the Board may vote to take
a position on a measure/proposition.
b. Measures/propositions determined to not impact District business may nonetheless
be analyzed by the General Manager when directed by a majority vote of the Board,
of which the analysis report would include possible alternatives for Board action, but
no position recommendation.
2. Local, State, and Federal Legislative Advocacy
a. The Legislative, Funding, and Public Affairs Committee (LFPAC) receives periodic
updates regarding the District’s legislative program. When LFPAC determines that
proposed legislation may affect District business, it may direct the General Manager
to prepare a recommendation for consideration by the full Board or where there is
not adequate time to convene the full Board, may direct the General Manager to
take action to support or oppose the legislation without full Board approval. In such
cases, the General Manager or designee shall report to the Board any actions taken
to support or oppose legislation at or before the next Board meeting.
b. When time is so short that neither the full Board nor LFPAC can be convened to
consider positions to support or oppose local, state or federal legislation, the
General Manager is authorized to take a position on behalf of the District if the
legislation:
i. Is related to the District’s mission; AND
ii. Would directly impact the District’s business, such as project delivery,
operations, finances, legal authority, or other District responsibilities; AND
iii. The position being taken is consistent/inconsistent with existing District
policy, past action, or District Strategic Plan; OR
iv. The legislation carries other considerations that make it contrary to the
District’s interests.
In such instances, the General Manager or designee shall report to the Board any
actions taken to support or oppose the legislation at or before the next Board
meeting.
c. Full Board action is required regarding legislation that is not clearly within the
criteria listed above under Section 2.b. or guided by direction previously given by
LFPAC.
ATTACHMENT 1
Board Policy 1.11 Page 3 of 3
3. Full Board action is required to support or oppose any type of grassroots advocacy action,
such as social, political, or economic movements, that are not legislation.
4. Board members representing the District in their official capacity on regional or other
bodies may, at his or her discretion, take actions based on the principles above consistent
with previously approved Board positions and policies.
5. This policy is not intended to limit the prerogative of individual Board members from
expressing their individual support for or opposition to any local ballot measure, State
proposition, State or Federal legislation, or grassroots advocacy actions. However, in doing
so, the member should clearly state they are speaking for themselves, and not in an official
capacity on behalf of the Board or the District. Individual Board Members who take a
position in support or opposition to ballot measure or legislation for which the Board has
not previously taken a position are encouraged as a professional courtesy to include the
language for identification purposes only parenthetically following their signature
referencing their position on the Board.
ATTACHMENT 1
MROSD Legislative Tracking Matrix
7/1/2020
Measure Author Focus Area Goal Topic Status Brief Summary Position Priority
AB 2482 Stone, Mark D Climate
Protect the
positive
environmental
values of open
space lands
Agriculture:
environmental
farming programs
and grants.
Removed due to
COVID-related
reduction of bills
at the request of
leadership
Would require the Department of Food and Agriculture, upon appropriation by the
Legislature of additional funds, to administer the State Water Efficiency and
Enhancement Program (grant program) to provide grants to agricultural operations to
implement irrigation systems that reduce greenhouse gases and energy use and
increase water use efficiency, as prescribed. The bill would also require the department
to fund culturally competent training on irrigation and nutrient management, authorize
the department to contract with qualified third parties to measure grant program
outcomes, and require the department to adopt guidelines for the grant program.
Support 2
AB 2619 Stone, Mark D Climate
Protect the
positive
environmental
values of open
space lands
Coastal resources:
Program for
Coastal Resilience,
Adaptation, and
Access.
Removed due to
COVID-related
reduction of bills
at the request of
leadership
Would establish the Program for Coastal Resilience, Adaptation, and Access for the
purpose of funding specified activities intended to help the state prepare, plan, and
implement actions to address and adapt to sea level rise and coastal climate change.
The bill would create the Coastal Resilience, Adaptation, and Access Fund in the State
Treasury, and would authorize the California Coastal Commission and specified state
agencies to expend moneys in the fund, upon appropriation in the annual Budget Act,
to take actions, based upon the best scientific information, that are designed to
address and adapt to sea level rise and coastal climate change, as prescribed.
Support 2
AB 2954 Rivas, Robert D Climate
Protect the
positive
environmental
values of open
space lands
California Global
Warming Solutions
Act of 2006:
climate goal:
natural and
working lands.
Awaiting
committee
assignment in
Senate Rules
Would require the State Air Resources Board, in collaboration with the California
Environmental Protection Agency, the Natural Resources Agency, the Office of Planning
and Research, and other relevant departments, to identify by July 1, 2021, an overall
climate goal for the state’s natural and working lands, as defined, to sequester carbon
and reduce atmospheric greenhouse gas emissions. As part of this process, the bill
would require the state board, in collaboration with the same agencies and
departments, to among other things, identify practices, policy incentives, and potential
reductions in barriers that would help achieve the climate goal for integration into the
next update to the scoping plan that immediately follows the identification of the
climate goal and, on or before January 1, 2022, report to the Legislature recommended
policy incentives that the state could enact to help reach the climate goal.
Support 2
SB 1296 Durazo D Climate
Protect the
positive
environmental
values of open
space lands
Natural resources:
the Nature and
Parks Career
Pathway and
Community
Resiliency Act of
2020.
Died in Senate
Appropriations
Committee
Current law establishes various environmental and economic policies and
programs.This bill would establish the Nature and Parks Career Pathway and
Community Resiliency Act of 2020, which would require state conservancies, the
Wildlife Conservation Board, and the Natural Resources Agency to establish
independent grant programs to support climate-beneficial and climate resiliency
projects that incorporate partnerships with nonprofit organizations that provide
certifications and placement services for jobs and careers in the natural resources field,
as specified.
Support 2
SB 1323 Skinner D Climate
Protect the
positive
environmental
values of open
space lands
Carbon
sequestration:
state goals:
natural and
working lands:
registry of
projects.
Removed due to
COVID-related
reduction of bills
at the request of
leadership
Would require, no later than July 1, 2021, that the Natural Resources Agency, in
coordination with the California Environmental Protection Agency, the State Air
Resources Board, and the department establish carbon sequestration goals for natural
and working lands, as defined. The bill would require the board to include specified
carbon dioxide removal targets as part of its scoping plan.
Support 2
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
Priority Bill Status as of June 24, 2020
1
ATTACHMENT 2
MROSD Legislative Tracking Matrix
7/1/2020
AB 1922 Rivas, Luz D Education
Connect people to
open space and a
regional
environmental
protection vision
Pupil instruction:
science
requirements:
climate change.
Removed due to
COVID-related
reduction of bills
at the request of
leadership
Current law requires the adopted course of study for grades 1 to 6, inclusive, and the
adopted course of study for grades 7 to 12, inclusive, to include certain areas of study,
including, among others, English, mathematics, social sciences, science, and visual and
performing arts, as specified. This bill, with respect to both of the above-referenced
adopted courses of study, would require the science area of study to include an
emphasis on the causes and effects of climate change. The bill would require that
appropriate coursework including this material be offered to pupils as soon as possible,
commencing no later than the 2021–22 school year.
Support 2
AB 3256 Garcia, Eduardo D Funding
Strengthen
organizational
capacity and long-
term financial
sustainability to
fulfill the mission
Climate risks:
bond measure.
On hold in
Assembly Rules
awaiting
negotiation with
Governor
The California Drought, Water, Parks, Climate, Coastal Protection, and Outdoor Access
For All Act of 2018, approved by the voters as Proposition 68 at the June 5, 2018,
statewide direct primary election, authorizes the issuance of bonds in the amount of
$4,000,000,000 pursuant to the State General Obligation Bond Law to finance a
drought, water, parks, climate, coastal protection, and outdoor access for all
program.This bill would state the intent of the Legislature to enact a bond measure that
would address climate risks to the State of California.
Support 1
ACR 179 Voepel R Governance
Strengthen
organizational
capacity and long-
term financial
sustainability to
fulfill the mission
Special Districts
Week
Removed due to
COVID-related
reduction of bills
at the request of
leadership
This measure proclaims the week of May 17, 2020, to May 23, 2020, to be Special
Districts Week.
Support 2
SB 1372 Monning D Habitat
Connectivity
Protect the
positive
environmental
values of open
space lands
Wildlife corridors
and connectivity:
Wildlife and
Biodiversity
Protection and
Movement Act of
2020.
Removed due to
COVID-related
reduction of bills
at the request of
leadership
Current law requires the Department of Fish and Wildlife, contingent upon funding
being provided by the Wildlife Conservation Board or from other appropriate bond
funds, upon appropriation by the Legislature, to investigate, study, and identify those
areas in the state that are most essential as wildlife corridors and habitat linkages, as
well as the impacts to those wildlife corridors from climate change, and requires the
department to prioritize vegetative data development in these areas. This bill would
additionally require the department to investigate, study, and identify impacts to those
wildlife corridors from state infrastructure projects, including transportation and water
projects, large-scale development projects not covered by an existing natural
community conservation plan or habitat conservation plan, and planned or potential
land conversions.
Support 1
AB 2987 Flora R Planning and
Permitting
Strengthen
organizational
capacity and long-
term financial
sustainability to
fulfill the mission
Local agency
public contracts:
bidding
procedures.
Removed due to
COVID-related
reduction of bills
at the request of
leadership
The Uniform Public Construction Cost Accounting Act authorizes a public agency to
elect to become subject to uniform construction cost accounting procedures. The act
authorizes bidding procedures for public projects, as specified. Those bidding
procedures include procedures for the publication or posting and electronic
transmission of notice inviting formal bids. This bill would authorize a public agency, as
an alternative to the publication or posting requirement, to meet the notice inviting
formal bids requirement by transmitting notice electronically, as specified, and
publishing the notice electronically in a prescribed manner on the public agency’s
internet website at least 14 calendar days before the date of opening the bids.
Support 2
AB 3005 Rivas, Robert D Planning and
Permitting
Protect the
positive
environmental
values of open
space lands
Leroy Anderson
Dam and
Reservoir:
environmental
review,
permitting, and
public contracting.
Awaiting
committee
assignment in
Senate Rules
Would require the Department of Fish and Wildlife, within 15 days of receipt of the
notification from the Santa Clara Valley Water District, to inform the department
whether the Anderson Dam project, as defined, will not substantially adversely affect
an existing fish and wildlife resource. If the department determines that the project will
substantially adversely affect an existing fish and wildlife resource, the bill would
specify the process by which the department is to issue a final agreement to the district
that includes reasonable measures necessary to protect the affected resource.
Support 2
2
ATTACHMENT 2
MROSD Legislative Tracking Matrix
7/1/2020
AB 2373 Rubio, Blanca D Stewardship
Protect the
positive
environmental
values of open
space lands
Structural pest
control: second
generation
anticoagulant
rodenticides.
Removed due to
COVID-related
reduction of bills
at the request of
leadership
Current law provides for the licensure and regulation of structural pest control by the
Structural Pest Control Board in the Department of Consumer Affairs. This bill would
require a licensee, beginning July 1, 2021, to complete a training course of at least one
hour on the ecological impact of second generation anticoagulant rodenticides, as
defined, on wildlife with respect to primary and secondary poisoning. The bill would
require the training course to be developed by the board or a provider approved by the
board, and to meet and apply to the continuing education requirements for licensees
established by the board.
Support 2
AB 2502 Quirk D Water
Protect the
positive
environmental
values of open
space lands
Groundwater
sustainability
plans: impacts on
managed
wetlands.
Removed due to
COVID-related
reduction of bills
at the request of
leadership
The Sustainable Groundwater Management Act requires all groundwater basins
designated as high- or medium-priority basins by the Department of Water Resources
that are designated as basins subject to critical conditions of overdraft to be managed
under a groundwater sustainability plan or coordinated groundwater sustainability
plans by January 31, 2020. The act prescribes that plans contain certain required
contents and requires that plans contain, where appropriate and in collaboration with
the appropriate local agencies, additional analyses or components, including, among
others, control of saline water intrusion, wellhead protection areas and recharge areas,
a well abandonment and well destruction program, well construction policies, and
impacts on groundwater dependent ecosystems. This bill would add impacts to
managed wetlands, as specified, to the additional analyses or components that a plan
is required to contain when appropriate.
Support 2
AB 2518 Wood D Water
Protect the
positive
environmental
values of open
space lands
Voluntary stream
restoration
landowner
liability.
Removed due to
COVID-related
reduction of bills
at the request of
leadership
Would exempt a landowner who voluntarily allows land to be used for such a project to
restore fish and wildlife habitat from civil liability for property damage or personal
injury resulting from the project if the project is funded, at least in part, by a state or
federal agency that promotes or encourages riparian habitat restoration, unless the
property damage or personal injury is caused by willful, intentional, or reckless conduct
of the landowner or by a design, construction, operation, or maintenance activity
performed by the landowner.
Support 2
3
ATTACHMENT 2
2020 TENTATIVE ASSEMBLY LEGISLATIVE CALENDAR
COMPILED BY THE OFFICE OF THE ASSEMBLY CHIEF CLERK
Revised 5-6-20
DEADLINES
Jan. 1 Statutes take effect (Art. IV, Sec. 8(c)).
Jan. 6 Legislature reconvenes (J.R. 51(a)(4)).
Jan. 10 Budget must be submitted by Governor (Art. IV, Sec. 12(a)).
Jan. 17 Last day for policy committees to hear and report to fiscal committees
fiscal bills introduced in their house in the odd-numbered year
(J.R. 61(b)(1)).
Jan. 20 Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.
Jan. 24 Last day for any committee to hear and report to the floor bills introduced
in that house in the odd-numbered year. (J.R. 61(b)(2)). Last day to submit
bill requests to the Office of Legislative Counsel.
Jan. 31 Last day for each house to pass bills introduced in that house in the odd-
numbered year (J.R. 61(b)(3)) (Art. IV, Sec. 10(c)).
S M T W TH F S
1 2 3 4
Wk. 1 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
Wk. 2 12 13 14 15 16 17 18
Wk. 3 19 20 21 22 23 24 25
Wk. 4 26 27 28 29 30 31
JANUARY
FEBRUARY
S M T W TH F S
Wk. 4 1
Wk. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Wk. 2 9 10 11 12 13 14 15
Wk. 3 16 17 18 19 20 21 22
Wk. 4 23 24 25 26 27 28 29
Feb. 17 Presidents' Day.
Feb. 21 Last day for bills to be introduced (J.R. 61(b)(4), J.R. 54(a)).
MARCH
S M T W TH F S
Wk. 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Wk. 2 8 9 10 11 12 13 14
Wk. 3 15 16 17 18 19 20 21
Wk. 4 22 23 24 25 26 27 28
Wk. 1 29 30 31
Mar. 3 Primary Election.
Mar. 20 Joint Recess begins upon adjournment (A.C.R. 189, Resolution Chapter 15,
Statutes of 2020).
Mar. 27 Cesar Chavez Day observed.
APRIL
S M T W TH F S
Wk. 1 1 2 3 4
Spring
Recess 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
Wk. 2 12 13 14 15 16 17 18
Wk. 3 19 20 21 22 23 24 25
Wk. 4 26 27 28 29 30
MAY
S M T W TH F S
Wk. 4 1 2
Wk. 1 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
Wk. 2 10 11 12 13 14 15 16
Wk. 3 17 18 19 20 21 22 23
Wk. 4 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
Wk. 1 31
May 4 Assembly reconvenes from Joint Recess (A.C.R. 189, Resolution
Chapter 15, Statutes of 2020).
May 22 Last day for policy committees to hear and report to fiscal committees
fiscal bills introduced in the Assembly (J.R. 61(b)(5)).
May 25 Memorial Day.
May 29 Last day for policy committees to hear and report to the floor nonfiscal
bills introduced in the Assembly (J.R. 61(b)(6)).
*Holiday schedule subject to final approval by Rules Committee.Page 1 of 2
OVER
ATTACHMENT 3
2020 TENTATIVE ASSEMBLY LEGISLATIVE CALENDAR
COMPILED BY THE OFFICE OF THE ASSEMBLY CHIEF CLERK
Revised 5-6-20
JUNE
S M T W TH F S
Wk. 1 1 2 3 4 5 6
Wk. 2 7 8 9 10 11 12 13
No
Hrgs. 14 15 16 17 18 19 20
Summer
Recess 21 22 23 24 25 26 27
Summer
Recess 28 29 30
June 5 Last day for fiscal committees to hear and report to the floor bills
introduced in the Assembly (J.R. 61 (b)(8)).
June 15 Budget Bill must be passed by midnight (Art. IV, Sec. 12(c)).
June 15-19 Assembly Floor session only. No committee may meet for any
purpose except for Rules Committee, bills referred pursuant to
Assembly Rule 77.2, and Conference Committees (J.R. 61(b)(10)).
June 19 Last day for the Assembly to pass bills introduced in that house
(J.R. 61(b)(11)).
Summer Recess begins for the Assembly upon adjournment, provided
Budget Bill has been passed (J.R. 51(b)(2)).
June 25 Last day for a legislative measure to qualify for the Nov. 3 General
Election ballot (Elections Code Sec. 9040).
JULY
S M T W TH F S
Summer
Recess 1 2 3 4
Summer
Recess 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
Wk. 3 12 13 14 15 16 17 18
Wk. 4 19 20 21 22 23 24 25
Wk. 1 26 27 28 29 30 31
July 3 Independence Day observed.
July 13 Legislature reconvenes from Summer Recess (J.R. 51(b)(2)).
July 31 Last day for policy committees to hear and report fiscal bills to fiscal
committees (J.R. 61(b)(13).
AUGUST
S M T W TH F S
Wk. 1 1
Wk. 2 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Wk. 3 9 10 11 12 13 14 15
No
Hrgs. 16 17 18 19 20 21 22
No
Hrgs. 23 24 25 26 27 28 29
No
Hrgs 30 31
Aug. 7 Last day for policy committees to meet and report bills (J.R. 61(b)(14)).
Aug. 14 Last day for fiscal committees to meet and report bills (J.R. 61(b)(15)).
Aug. 17 – 31 Floor session only. No committee may meet for any purpose except
Rules Committee, bills referred pursuant to Assembly Rule 77.2, and
Conference Committees (J.R. 61(b)(16)).
Aug. 21 Last day to amend bills on the floor (J.R. 61(b)(17)).
Aug. 31 Last day for each house to pass bills (Art. IV, Sec 10(c), J.R. 61(b)(18)).
Final Recess begins upon adjournment (J.R. 51(b)(3)).
IMPORTANT DATES OCCURRING DURING FINAL RECESS
2020
Sept. 30 Last day for Governor to sign or veto bills passed by the Legislature before Sept. 1
and in the Governor's possession on or after Sept. 1 (Art. IV, Sec. 10(b)(2)).
Oct. 1 Bills enacted on or before this date take effect January 1, 2021. (Art. IV, Sec. 8(c)).
Nov. 3 General Election.
Nov. 30 Adjournment sine die at midnight (Art. IV, Sec. 3(a)).
Dec. 7 2021-22 Regular Session convenes for Organizational Session at 12 noon.
(Art. IV, Sec. 3(a)).
2021
Jan. 1 Statutes take effect (Art. IV, Sec. 8(c)).
*Holiday schedule subject to final approval by Rules Committee.Page 2 of 2
ATTACHMENT 3
To: Board of Directors, Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
From: Environmental & Energy Consulting
Date: June 23rd, 2020
Re: California Funding Report
California’s funding landscape has completely changed in the last few months as a result
of the COVID-19 emergency. The legislature’s budget, funding, and policy priorities have
shifted almost completely to respond to the emergency, with a directive to focus all
energy and resources only on COVID-19 response, wildfire prevention and response,
housing and homelessness, and economic recovery. This, during a time when California
anticipates a $54B budget deficit, 18% unemployment rate, and less-than-projected
Cap-and-Trade revenues.
Despite this depressed financial outlook, Environmental & Energy Consulting (EEC)
continues to work to secure funding to advance the following Midpeninsula Regional
Open Space District (District) projects:
1) Land Acquisitions: San Jose Water Company, etc.
2) Highway 17 Projects
3) Land Transfer: Cloverdale
This memo summarizes the above District projects that we continue to pursue state
funding for during Fiscal Year 2020-2021.
1) Land Acquisitions: San Jose Water Company, etc.
Budget Request:
• Senator Beall previously secured a $10 million General Fund
appropriation to the Wildlife Conservation Board (WCB), to be distributed
as grants to the District to acquire lands in the Upper Guadalupe, Los
Gatos Creek, and Saratoga Creek from the San Jose Water Company
(SJWC).
• The existing budget language specifies that the funds are available for
encumbrance or expenditure until June 30, 2021, and that the funds must
be used to acquire lands from the SJWC.
• Due to changing dynamics impacting the planned transactions, EEC
worked with Senator Beall to submit and advance a budget re-
appropriation request that does the following: 1) Extends the
encumbrance period of the funds to June 30, 2025; and 2) Creates more
flexibility for eligible land acquisitions.
• The Governor’s May Revise did not include Senator Beall’s re-
appropriation. On June 15th, the legislature passed SB 74, the Senate and
ATTACHMENT 4
Assembly’s negotiated state budget proposal, which included Senator
Beall’s re-appropriation request. Because the Governor and legislature had
not negotiated prior to the legislature passing SB 74, further budget
negotiations would need to be had prior to the three houses finalizing the
state budget.
• On June 22nd, the legislature and Governor negotiated a final state budget
and released their final budget deal, and associated budget bills. The final
budget deal includes Senator Beall’s re-appropriation. We are now waiting
for the Governor to sign the state budget into law.
2) Highway 17 Projects
New Funding:
• EEC has been working to advance new, non-General Fund state funds to
support the District’s Highway 17 projects. This has been especially
important as the state’s General Fund continues to diminish and be
renegotiated due to COVID-19.
• Working with the District’s legislative delegation, Assemblymember
Eduardo Garcia crafted new amendments to his bond, AB 3256, that
appropriates $400 million to the Wildlife Conservation Board to, among
others, support projects necessary to the protection of wildlife corridors
and habitat linkages.
• Senator Allen’s bond, SB 45, includes an appropriation of $600 million to
the Wildlife Conservation Board to fund, among others, projects to protect
and restore wildlife corridors and habitat linkages.
• The legislature has until July 26th to pass a bond. Conversations are
ongoing to understand if there is an appetite for an economic stimulus
bond within the legislature and with California voters.
• In parallel, EEC continues to work with other legislative leaders, including
Senator Hertzberg, to position the Cloverdale-eligible funds in the case
that another state funding package becomes viable.
General Fund Request:
• EEC worked with Senator Beall to submit a Member Budget Request to
appropriate $20 million to Caltrans and the Wildlife Conservation Board
to support the District’s Highway 17 projects.
• The status of Senator Beall’s budget request is uncertain because
conversations related to non-COVID-19 Member Budget Requests are
being delayed, and will likely not happen until after the legislature returns
from Summer Recess in July or August. It is unlikely that non-COVID-19
Member Budget Requests will be funded this year.
Agency Funding:
• EEC provided Senator Beall with support to describe how the Department
of Transportation (Caltrans) can use Advanced Mitigation funds to
support the District’s Highway 17 project. District staff have met with
ATTACHMENT 4
Caltrans and the Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) staff to begin
the discussion as to the project might be able to utilize these funds.
• At the request of Senator Beall’s office, EEC worked with CDFW to request
a letter from the department in support of this project that could be sent to
Caltrans to encourage their active pursuit of funding for the project.
Although the department indicated that they are supportive of wildlife
corridors in general, they were unable to publicly express support for the
project because their comments could be perceived as their pre-approving
a project before the project is officially presented and considered for
approval.
• Caltrans wrote a letter describing how they are exploring funding options
for the District’s project, including all SB 1 funds, and suggested that the
Regional Conservation Investment Strategies Program could be an option
for funding.
• Conversations are ongoing to determine how Caltrans, and other agencies,
can find funding for the Highway 17 project.
3) Land Transfer: Cloverdale
New Funding:
• EEC has been advancing various strategies to secure new, non-General
Fund state funds to support the transfer of the Cloverdale property to the
District. This has been especially important as the state’s General Fund
continues to diminish and be renegotiated due to COVID-19.
• With the support of Senator Hill and Assemblymember Berman, and in
partnership with Together Bay Area, Assemblymember Eduardo Garcia
crafted new amendments to his bond, AB 3256, that increases the
appropriation to the State Coastal Conservancy from $300 million to
$800 million, increasing the opportunity for the District to successfully
attain a grant to support the Cloverdale land transfer.
• Senator Allen’s bond, SB 45, includes an appropriation of $700 million to
the State Coastal Conservancy to fund projects identified by the
conservancy. The District’s Cloverdale land transfer would be an eligible
project for these funds.
• The legislature has until July 26th to pass a bond. Conversations are
ongoing to understand if there is an appetite for an economic stimulus
bond within the legislature and with California voters.
• In parallel, EEC continues to work with other legislative leaders, including
Senator Hertzberg, to position the Cloverdale-eligible funds in the case
that another state funding package becomes viable.
General Fund Request:
• On behalf of Peninsula Open Space Trust, Public Policy Group worked
with Senator Hill to submit a formal Member Budget Request requesting
$10 million from the General Fund to support the transfer of the
Cloverdale property to the District.
ATTACHMENT 4
" D u e t o t h e s t a t e s r a p i d l y c h a n g i n g b u d g e t p r i o r i t i e s a s a r e s u l t o f t h e
C O V I D - 1 9 p a n d e m i c , w e h a v e h e a r d t h a t n o n - C O V I D - 1 9 r e l a t e d M e m b e r
B u d g e t R e q u e s t s a r e n o t l i k e l y b e f u n d e d t h i s y e a r . W e d o b e l i e v e ,
h o w e v e r , t h a t P P G a n d S e n a t o r H i l l a r e s t i l l p u r s u i n g t h i s M e m b e r B u d g e t
R e q u e s t t o t h e b e s t o f t h e i r a b i l i t y .
A T T A C H M E N T 4
June 23, 2020
TO: Ana María Ruiz, General Manager
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
Joshua Hugg, MPA, Governmental Affairs Specialist
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
FROM: Russell Noack, Julee Malinowski Ball, Nadra Mamou
Public Policy Advocates, LLC
RE: District Administration COVID-19 Legislative Issues
Local Government Budgets: With the state projected to have a $41 billion shortfall, local governments
were concerned the state might have to dip into local coffers to balance their books.
To answer this question, we have the benefit of having the final budget being passed out of the
Legislature last week. We can say with confidence the state did not dip into the local coffers to balance
their books, although the state has the ability to do so. Proposition 1A (2014) says that local property
and sales tax revenue is to remain with local governments rather than going into the statewide treasury,
except when the governor declares an emergency and 2/3rds of the California State Legislature agrees.
Local governments focused their efforts instead on getting financial assistance from the state.
The California State Association of Counties (CSAC), along with their affiliate organizations and counties
up and down the state, were asking for the state to backfill 1991 Realignment and 2011 Realignment,
which are projected to fall $3.3 billion short of their base funding over the current year and budget year.
California’s safety-net system is delivered almost entirely by counties —public health, public safety,
behavioral health and social services— and is under immense strain from the COVID-19 public health
crisis and steep economic recession.
The final budget package prioritized relief to maintain the safety net in a severely challenging state
budget and will help soften the blow to county programs and services. Although the counties requested
$1 billion, the Legislature approved $750 million. Pursuant to Section 8.28 of the Budget Bill, as
amendedi, if the state receives an additional $14 billion of flexible federal funding by October 15, 2020,
ATTACHMENT 5
Re: District Administration COVID-19 Legislative Issues
June 23, 2020
Page 2 of 3
the counties will receive another $250 million. Also, worth noting, budget control language provides this
funding is contingent on the county’s certifying compliance with the state’s stay-at-home requirements
and health directives including face coverings.
The final budget also increased the state’s CARES Act funding allocation to cities to $500 million and
established a floor allocation of $50,000 per city. In the Governor’s May Revisionii, the state’s allocation
was $450 million and did not provide a minimum allocation for each city. Cities are facing a $7 billion
general revenue shortfall. There is no additional funding triggered like the counties if federal money is
approved.
Landlord/Tenant Stabilization Fund: In the early stages of the budget process, Senate leadership put
together a landlord/tenant stabilization fund proposal. This proposal would create a three-party
agreement to resolve unpaid rents among renters, landlords and the state. Senator Caballero and
Senator Bradford introduced SB 1410 COVID-19 emergency: tenanciesiii. SB 1410 outlines the terms of
the tenant-owner rent stabilization agreement, which would protect tenants from eviction during the
state of emergency, or for the unpaid rent from the state of emergency. The state of California will pay
the unpaid rent in the form of a tax credit and the tenant will repay the state of California by
installments over the span of ten years starting in 2024, without interest. Owners of real property are
eligible to participate in this program. We are asking for clarity around how public entities qualify as
owners of real property.
Workers' Compensation - Rebuttable Presumption: In early May, after months of negotiations, Governor
Newsom issued Executive Order N-62-20iv, which created a rebuttable presumption of work-relatedness
for COVID-19 illness if the employee tested positive within 14 days of working outside the home at the
direction of the employer. The Order lasts until July 5, 2020.
Three bills on the subject are also in the legislative process. Senate Bill 1159 (Hill)v would codify the
Governor's Executive Order. Assembly Bill 664 (Cooper)vi would create a conclusive presumption for
certain public safety and hospital workers. And Assembly Bill 196 (L. Gonzalez)vii would create a
conclusive presumption for all essential employees working outside the home and extends the time
frame for 90 days.
Labor Code Section 3363.5 provides that a person who performs voluntary services for a public agency
as authorized by the Governing Body upon adoption of a resolution shall be deemed to be an employee
for workers' compensation purposes. It is our understanding that MROSD has adopted such a policy
since 1994 and accordingly volunteers fall under the rebuttable presumption of the Executive Order
(EO). Despite the negative impact on organizations that utilize a large number of volunteers each
working only a few hours, it is not likely that the Governor or Legislature would revise the EO to exclude
the presumption for volunteers asked to work outside their homes. Although an uphill fight, working in
concert with the California Special Districts Association, MROSD is attempting to see if a broader
coalition of districts and nonprofits can be created seeking some relief from legislative leaders and the
Newsom Administration.
ATTACHMENT 5
Re: District Administration COVID-19 Legislative Issues
June 23, 2020
Page 3 of 3
Teeter Plan: Governor Newsom issued Executive Order N-61-20viii, which among other things
established a property tax penalty waiver program for taxpayers who are unable to pay due to financial
hardship beyond their control caused by the COVID-19 crisis. A reduction in penalty payments would
negatively affect Teeter Plan Counties as the Teeter Method allows counties to calculate an upfront
payment plan to remit payments to special districts with the penalties ultimately remaining with the
counties.
We have met with representatives of the Treasurer Tax Collector Association, County Assessors
Association and CSAC and have received the positive news that the April 10 property tax payments have
been remitted as usual and little or no impact has been observed to date.
We are closely monitoring the issue with the relevant stakeholder groups to determine if the volume of
financial hardship waivers will have a greater impact on delayed property tax payments on the
December 10 due date.
i Senate Bill 74 (Mitchell), As Enrolled 06/15/2020
ii 2020-21 May Revision to the Governor’s Budget, As Revised on May 14, 2020
iii Senate Bill 1410 (Caballero and Bradford), As Amended 06/19/2020
iv Executive Order N-62-20, Issued by Governor Gavin Newsom on 05/06/2020
v Senate Bill 1159 (Hill), As Amended on 06/18/2020
vi Assembly Bill 664 (Cooper), As Amended on 05/18/2020
vii Assembly Bill 196 (L. Gonzalez), As Amended on 05/05/2020
viii Executive Order N-61-20, Issued by Governor Gavin Newsom on 05/06/2020
ATTACHMENT 5
DATE: July 8, 2020
MEMO TO: Board of Directors
THROUGH: Ana Ruiz, General Manager
FROM: Julie Andersen, Senior Resource Management Specialist
Kirk Lenington, Natural Resources Manager
Jane Mark, Planning Manager
SUBJECT: Alma Bridge Road Newt Mortality Update
SUMMARY
In response to a newt mortality issue along Alma Bridge Road, Midpeninsula Regional Open Space
District (District) staff have participated in ongoing conversations with newt advocacy groups (Sierra
Club and Audubon) and researchers (US Geologic Survey and US Davis Road Ecology Center). District
staff are also coordinating with partners, including Santa Clara County Roads and Airports (County
Roads), Santa Clara County Parks (County Parks), Santa Clara Valley Water District (Valley Water), the
California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), and Peninsula Open Space Trust (POST). To date,
over 10,000 dead newts have been documented by volunteers on Alma Bridge Road since monitoring
began in 2017. District staff reviewed an infrastructure project proposed by newt advocates and
researchers to reduce roadkill with County Roads, County Parks, and Valley Water staff. As a result of
these discussions, the District is currently working with POST to develop an additional study for review
by the stakeholder agencies. Further study will characterize the road mortality relative to long term
subpopulation viability and help determine the appropriate scale of any roadway modifications. In
addition, staff is evaluating how the Beatty Parking Lot and Trail Connections Project will interface with
the studies and future actions to address the newt mortality issue along Alma Bridge Road.
DISCUSSION
In November 2017, District staff were notified by a District trail patrol volunteer that she had observed
ongoing newt roadkill (numbering in the hundreds) along Alma Bridge Road near Sierra Azul Open
Space Preserve. Staff responded that although concerning, Alma Bridge Road is not owned or managed
by the District and therefore our ability to implement actions to address this issue was limited and would
require participation of additional partners. Staff discussed the issue with the volunteer to clarify that this
work to monitor the roadkill along the roadway is not part of an official District study and contacted local
agencies to advise them of the issue. To date, over 10,000 dead newts have been documented by
volunteers on Alma Bridge Road since monitoring began in 2017.
California newt (Taricha torosa) and rough-skinned newt (Taricha granulosa) are closely related species,
are present in the area, and have both been identified among roadkill on Alma Bridge Road. Neither of
the newt species have special protection in this area. The California newt is listed as a California Species
of Special Concern in the southern portion of its range (Monterey County and south), which does not
include Santa Clara County or District preserves. The rough-skinned newt has no special protection. In
November 2018, POST began to further investigate the issue by working with a consultant biologist to
analyze existing volunteer data. That effort found that additional study is needed to estimate the adult
newt breeding population size and percentage of the population being killed by vehicle strikes. This
information was shared with newt advocates, researchers, and agency stakeholders.
In February 2019, the Audubon Society and the Loma Prieta Chapter of the Sierra Club sent a letter to
Supervisor Wasserman and the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors requesting road closures, efforts
to reduce traffic (e.g. vehicle shuttles), installation of signage on Alma Bridge Road, and the development
of educational materials (see Attachment 1). County Roads responded to this letter indicating they will
install signage on Alma Bridge Road, that road closures are not feasible, and that County Parks will
educate park users about newt crossings (Attachment 2). Supervisor Simitian’s office also discussed the
issue with District Natural Resources (NR) staff. County Roads followed up and has installed numerous
newt crossing signs on Alma Bridge Road.
The District developed a Frequently Asked Questions document (Attachment 3) to convey our knowledge
of and ongoing involvement in raising awareness about the newt mortality issue. This information is
available on the District website.
In January 2020, the District held a Planning and Natural Resources (PNR) Committee meeting onsite for
the Beatty Parking Lot and Trail Connections Project (Beatty Project) and heard comments from
Audubon Society regarding concerns about ongoing newt mortality on Alma Bridge Road. District NR
staff subsequently participated in a meeting with POST, the newt advocacy groups (Audubon, Sierra
Club), and researchers (UC Davis Roadkill Ecology Center, USGS) to discuss data collection, potential
mitigation options, and process. Shortly after, in February 2020 the researchers sent a proposal for the
use of an elevated roadway and directional fencing to offset newt mortalities in identified roadkill
hotspots along Alma Bridge Road. They sent this proposal to County Roads, County Parks, CDFW,
Valley Water, the District, and POST.
In April 2020, the District met with County Roads, County Parks, and Valley Water to discuss the
proposal and intersection with the Beatty Project. During discussions, County Parks and Valley Water
indicated they are supportive of a more systematic study of the newt population and noted that
multiagency collaboration is needed. The County does not believe it is appropriate to propose changes to
the built environment, roadway, or operation and maintenance of the roadway until the effects of
mortality on species population can be understood with more clarity. County Roads is not willing to
maintain the infrastructure as currently proposed and the General Manager does not recommend the
District taking on maintenance responsibility of a county road structure. Valley Water is also interested in
additional studies and defining a clear project lead before undertaking any proposals that may impact their
operations.
In June 2020, UC Davis submitted a pre-proposal to the Wildlife Conservation Board for Proposition 68
funding in the amount of $1,040,000 for the following work:
Phase 1 - Develop a plan and mitigation design to reduce herpetofauna mortality within three (3)
hotspot areas of Alma Bridge Road, next to Lexington Reservoir, by preventing access to the road
surface and allow herpetofauna access to mating habitat in the Reservoir through existing bridge and
culvert crossings.
Phase 2 - Contingent upon the County’s acceptance of the plan and design, build mitigation within the
hotspots and experimentally determine the effectiveness of the approach in order to inform
subsequent mitigation phases.
Herpetofauna is a catch all phrase that includes reptiles and amphibians, but the mortality of concern is
limited to newts. After discussions with District staff, the General Manager recommends continuing to
work collaboratively with stakeholder agencies to secure an outside consultant to develop a more focused
and systematic study that quantifies impacts of roadkill to the newt population. A research proposal is
currently in development for review by the District, POST, Valley Water, County Roads and County
Parks prior to an upcoming Planning and Natural Resources Committee Meeting where it will be
discussed. If recommended by the Committee, award of funds for a District contribution to the study will
then be brought to the full Board.
The District is also supportive of continuing to work with the newt advocacy groups and researchers to
discuss solutions to the newt roadkill issue. Further study that demonstrates with greater clarity the need
and beneficial outcomes of major roadway modifications to protect newts is needed for agencies to
consider contributing significant funds towards and/or being willing to install and maintain such roadway
modifications in the future. Implementation will require significant funds, equipment, and ongoing staff
time to provide environmental review, multi-agency collaboration, ongoing effectiveness monitoring,
inspection and maintenance. The General Manager has directed staff to work with stakeholder agencies
to explore funding a collaborative multi-agency study for determining the level of impact to the local
newt population, and the appropriate scale of roadway modifications needed to ameliorate the ongoing
roadkill. Depending on the cost, a future funding agreement may come to the full Board for review and
approval at a later date.
In addition to ongoing coordination, District has added a newt migration page to the District website,
distributes an annual rainy season email to all staff and social media posts to the public asking them to
drive slowly during wet weather in areas of newt migration and report any additional areas of observed
roadkill. Staff has also provided information on the District grantmaking program and provided permits
and information to help support newt research efforts. Furthermore, staff anticipates presenting an update
of the Beatty Project to the PNR Committee this summer, 2020.
Attachments:
1. February 2019 letter from Audubon Society and the Loma Prieta Chapter of the Sierra Club to
Supervisor Wasserman and the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors
2. March 2019 Santa Clara County Roads and Airports response to Attachment 1
3. District Frequently Asked Questions document for Alma Bridge Road Newts
February 11, 2019 via email
Supervisor Wasserman and Board of Supervisors
Santa Clara County
Re: Newt Mortality At Alma Bridge Road
Dear Supervisor Wasserman and members of the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors
Thousands of Pacific newts have been killed by vehicles on Alma Bridge Road, which borders
on Lexington Reservoir in the Santa Cruz Mountains. This road cuts between the newts’ upland
habitat and the vernal streams and ponds in which they reproduce. The newts must cross this
road twice – once on their migration to the ponds to mate, and then again when they return to the
highlands. A single vehicle driving along this road can crush dozens of these slow-moving
creaturesi.
The Santa Clara Valley Audubon Society and the Sierra Club Loma Prieta Chapter have been
alerted to this carnage by our members, who are very concerned and very upset. We write to
provide you with information and with the hope that you help identify and implement short-term
remedies while exploring long-term solutions.
Figure 1: Pacific Newts, Alma Bridge Road (photos by Anne Parsons)
Santa Clara ValleyAudubon Society
Attachment 1
Roadkill Counts: Citizen scientists have been counting the newt roadkill on Alma Bridge Road
since November 2017. Roadkill counts are being uploaded to the iNaturalist.org database on a
bi-weekly basis: https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/pacific-newts-all-lexington-reservoir-area
As many as 457 carcasses have been counted on a single day! Since our volunteers do not count
every day, we have reasons to believe these numbers under-represent the full carnage on Alma
Bridge Road.
Figure 2: Wildlife Mortality on Alma Bridge Road
Total Dead: 3,001
This season (Fall 2018 to Feb. 10): 2,530 22 data collection days
Last season (Fall-Winter 2017-2018): 471 3 data collection days
Other roadkill: 16 10 species: deer, frogs, toads, voles, moles
Figure 3: Newt mortality by month through February 10, 2019.
0
200
400
600
800
1000
1200
1400
1600
Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun
Pacific Newt Mortality
2017-2018 2018-2019
Attachment 1
Figure 4: iNaturalist data: Each blue dot indicates a dead newt and the location where its carcass
was found.
The map (Figure 4) shows the extent of the problem: newts are being killed all along the eastern
side of the reservoir – on miles of Alma Bridge Road.
While we do not know what the impact of this level of road kill on the newt population of the
region, our members care! Pacific newts have a lifespan of 14 years, and so extremely high
mortality rates over time could affect our local population negatively. In Southern California, the
California Newt (Taricha torosa) has been listed as a species of special concern where similar
conversion of land to human uses has resulted in habitat degradation and massive roadkillii. We
believe the same may be happening here. Furthermore, even if the impacts to the population
were insignificant, we should be doing all we can to reduce this carnage.
Who uses Alma Bridge Road? Our observations show the following users: residents of local
homes, hikers, bikers, boaters, equestrians, PG&E, Vulcan Materials Co., San Jose Water Co.,
Los Gatos Rowing Club, Santa Clara County Parks rangers and maintenance staff, Midpeninsula
Regional Open Space District (MROSD) rangers, UCSC Puma Project.
Attachment 1
Long-term solutions: The Peninsula Open Space Trust is considering a study of population
impacts and looking for long term solutions. Other CA communities have faced similar situations
and come up with their own solutions (Santa Cruz Countyiii , Tilden Parkiv, Stanfordv). Lessons
learned from these projects suggest it could take time to do the analysis and implement
appropriate mitigations.
Therefore, we ask the County to identify and implement Short-term solutions: We ask for
critical, immediate relief until long-term solutions are found. Here are a few suggestions:
• We think Alma Bridge Rd. could be closed at night (5pm-7am) from Highway 17 to
Soda Springs Road on a temporary basis from December through March. A gate can
be installed for emergency vehicle access. Residents have an alternate route to get to
their homes.
• Explore ways to reduce vehicle traffic to County Park and to the Rowing Club (for
example, shuttles).
• Install signage and develop education materials for users of the road
We thank you for your attention. For additional information of if you have questions, please
contact Shani Kleinhaus at 650-868-2114.
Respectfully,
Shani Kleinhaus, Ph.D.
Environmental Advocate
Santa Clara Valley Audubon Society
Katja Irvin
Conservation Committee co-chair
Sierra Club Loma Prieta Chapter
i Traffic is Driving a Newt Massacre in the Santa Cruz Mountains, (Bay Nature, 2/8/2019)
https://baynature.org/2019/02/06/traffic-is-driving-a-newt-massacre-in-the-santa-cruz-
mountains/
ii Taricha torosa, the California newt, is currently a species of California Special Concern in
southern CA (IUCN Red List Species Account):
https://amphibiaweb.org/cgi/amphib_query?where-genus=Taricha&where-
species=torosa&account=iucn
iii Hobbs, Michael Thomas, "Amphibian Mortality on Roads: A Case Study in Santa Cruz Long-
toed Salamander Habitat" (2013). Master's Theses. 4389.
https://scholarworks.sjsu.edu/etd_theses/4389
Attachment 1
This study recommended measures to reduce road mortality to the Santa Cruz long-toed
salamander by (1) restricting vehicular traffic on roads dissecting salamander habitats, (2)
installing structures to protect the animals while crossing roads, and (3) potentially assisting
animals crossing roads at nighttime during the breeding migrations. For a synopsis, see
Discussion (p. 45) and Recommendations (p.50).
iv South Park Drive in Tilden Park closed for 5 months to protect newts:
https://www.berkeleyside.com/2018/11/08/south-park-drive-in-tilden-park-closed-for-5-months-
to-protect-newts
v Tunnel of love for Stanford's salamanders / Breeding amphibians offered way to escape
commuters' cars:
https://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/Tunnel-of-love-for-Stanford-s-salamanders-2883540.php
CC:
Neal Sharma, Peninsula Open Space Trust
Terris Kasteen, California Department of Fish and Wildlife
Julie Andersen, Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
Anne Parsons, Citizen Science Volunteer
Santa Clara Valley Audubon Society staff and volunteers
Sierra Club Loma Prieta Chapter staff and volunteers
Attachment 1
County of Santa Clara
Roads and Airports Department
IOI Skyport Drive
San Jose, California 9st lGl3o2
l-40a-573-2400
March 8,2OL9
Shani Kleinhaus, Ph.D.
Environme nta I Advocate
Santa Clara Valley Audubon Society
Katja lrvin
Conservation Committee co-chair
Sierra Club Loma Príeta Chapter
Re: Newt Mortality on Alma Bridge Road
Dear Ms. Kleinhaus and Ms. lrvin,
This is in response to your letter dated February IL,2OL9 to Supervisor Wasserman and the members of
the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors regarding newt mortality on Alma Bridge Road. We
appreciate the commitment of the Audubon Society and the Sierra Club to effectuate a long-term
solution to this issue and look forward to working with your organizations to that end.
Your letter recommends a number of short-term solutions for the County to consider. Our response is
as follows:
a
a
Signage and educational material - We have developed a customized sign and propose to install
it as shown on the enclosed map. We would appreciate if your organizations could take the lead
on development of educational material that we can disseminate to the road users.
Nighttime closure of Alma Springs Road - Unfortunately, the road closure is not feasible as a
short-term solution. Legal issues, operational capacity of the County staff to open and close the
road, coordinating with property owners and public safety concerns would all need to be
addressed prior to considering any access restrictions.
Reduction of traffic to the park and Rowing Club - We have coordinated this response with our
County Parks Department, and they have committed to educating the Rowing Club and park
users regarding an awareness of newt movements and crossings. The newt crossing signs and
educational materials will help with general awareness of the public and park users.
a
Board of Supervisors: Mike Wasserman, Cindy Chavez, Dave Cortese, Susan Ellenberg, S. Joseph Simitian
County Executive: Jelfrey V. Smith ñ
7407
Attachment 2
We appreciate your efforts in bringing this matter to our attention and hope your plan to study a
long-term solution will yield a course of action that we can partner to implement. lf you have any
questions, please don't hesitate to call me.
Best Regards,
Director & Airports
CC:
Neal Sharma, Peninsula Open Space Trust
Terris Kasteen, California Department of Fish and Wildlife
Julie Andersen, Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
Anne Parsons, Citizen Science Volunteer
County of Santa Clara Board of Supervisors
2
Attachment 2
Attachment 2
Alma Bridge Road Newts
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is Midpen aware of the newt mortality issue on Alma Bridge Road?
Yes. Although Midpen is not the underlying landowner of Alma Bridge Road, we are aware of and
concerned about the issue. We are supportive of volunteer and outside organizations and agencies
efforts to collect data and study the road mortality issue. Midpen will utilize this information during
California Environmental Quality Act review of projects occurring near Alma Bridge Road.
2. What is Midpen doing to alleviate the issue?
When Midpen was notified of the issue, Midpen reached out to the following organizations and
agencies to raise awareness of the issue:
• Peninsula Open Space Trust (POST), Wildlife Linkages Program Manager
• California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Regional Biologist and Statewide Reptile and
Amphibian Coordinator
• Santa Clara County Parks, Natural Resources Program and Director
• Santa Clara Valley Water District Regional Biologists and Water Utility Manager
• Santa Clara County Roads and Airports, Transportation Planner
In addition, Midpen staff has shared information with the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors
office on the issue.
Midpen also maintains a newt migration webpage: www.openspace.org/newts
3. What studies are being conducted?
An outside biological consultant has been retained to study the issue. In 2019, the consultant will be
working on assessing available citizen science data, attempting to better understand the local newt
population, potential reproduction, and how observed mortality may affect the population.
4. What is the protection status for local newts?
Roadkill newts on Alma Bridge Road have been identified to the genus (Taricha, within which are
four identified species, all occurring in the western coastal region of North America). The Alma
Bridge Road newts have not been identified to species and are either California newt (Taricha
torosa) or rough skinned newt (Taricha granulosa) as the two species appear very similar. The
California newt is listed as a California species of special concern in the southern portion of its range,
which does not include Santa Clara County and the rough skinned newt has no special protection.
Attachment 3
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
openspace.org
5. What can I do to help local newts?
Do not attempt to pick up and relocate newts crossing the road; it is dangerous for you and other
drivers for you to be on the roadways. Newts also secrete a powerful neurotoxin in their skin that
can cause death if ingested. Do not handle newts. Stay off wet roads especially during the breeding
season (November to March) and if you must drive, minimize your number of trips, drive slowly and
carefully. Alert your friends and neighbors to slow down and drive carefully on Alma Bridge Road
when newts are on the move between November and March. If feasible, please reduce the driving
occurrences on Alma Bridge Road during these times.
Report observations of large newt migrations and/or mortality events using iNaturalist:
https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/midpen-biodiversity-index
Photo credit: California Newt, Karl Gohl.
Attachment 3