HomeMy Public PortalAbout20010523 - Agendas Packet - Board of Directors (BOD) - 01-12 Regional Open ,,!" -ice
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
Meeting 01-12
SPECIAL AND REGULAR MEETING
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
7:00 p.m. j
Wednesday, May 23, 2001
330 Distel Circle
Los Altos, California
AGENDA*
Please Note: 7:00 p.m. Closed Session Start Time
7:30 p.m. Regular Meeting Start Time
7:00* ROLL CALL
SPECIAL MEETING OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN
SPACE DISTRICT--CLOSED SESSION
The Closed Session will begin at 7:00 p.m. At the conclusion of the Closed Session, the Board
will adjourn the Special Meeting Closed Session to the Regular Meeting, and, at the conclusion of
the Regular Meeting, the Board may reconvene the Special Meeting Closed Session.
1. Conference with General Counsel -Existing Litigation - Government Cale Section 54956.9(a)
Name of Case-Richmond vs. Krone Bishop et al. Santa Clara Superior Court Case No.
CV86195.
7:30* REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL
OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
i
** ORAL COMMUNICATIONS—Public
ADOPTION OF AGENDA
*** ADOPTION OF CONSENT CALENDAR—P. Siemens
*** APPROVAL OF MINUTES
• March 14, 2001
• March 28, 2001
*** WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS
BOARD BUSINESS
7:45* 1 Progress Report on the Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve Resource Inventory and
Assessment Project;Receive and Comment on the Progress Report-M. Freeman
8:15* 2 Program Evaluation for the 2000-2001 Action Plan for the Implemenataion of the Basic
Policy of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District; Comment on and Accept
Staffs Program Evaluation Report-C. Britton
330 Distel Circle • Los Altos, CA 94022-1404 • Phone:650-691-1200
Fax:650-691-0485 • E-mail: mrosd@openspace.org •Web site:www.openspace.org 1 goFREE
Board of Directors:Pete Siemens,Mary C.Davey,Jed Cyr,Deane Little,Nonette Hanko,Larry Hassett,Kenneth C.Nitz *General Manager:L.Craig Britton
Meeting 01-12 Page 2
8:45* 3 Authorization to Utilize Design Concepts for Graphic Design and Harbor Printing
Service, Selected Via Competitive Bids,Until Formal Requests for Proposals Yield New
Contract Proposals;Authorize the General Manager to Contract with Design Concepts to
Perform Graphic Design Work Not to Exceed$14,000 and Harbor Printing to Complete
Printing Projects Not to Exceed$50,000—S. Jensen
8:55* 4 Agreement with California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection(CDF)to
Conduct a Prescribed Bum at Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve;Authorize the
General Manager to Enter Into an Agreement with the California Department of Forestry
and Fire Protection to Conduct a Prescribed Bum at Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve
as an Ongoing Part of the Grassland Management Implementation Plan—J. Isaacs
9:05* 5 Agreement with Santa Clara County Fire Department to Conduct a Prescribed Bum on
the Rancho de Guadalupe Area of Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve;Determine that the
Recommended Actions as Set Out in This Report are Categorically Exempt Under the
California Environmental Quality Act;Authorize the General Manager to Execute the
Attached Permit to Enter For the Purpose of Allowing the Santa Clara County Fire
Department to Conduct a Controlled Burn,For Training Purposes,on the Rancho de
Guadalupe Area of Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve—G. Baillie
*** 6 Scheduling of a Special Meeting of the Board of Directors on May 30,2001 and
Cancellation of June 13, 2001 Regular Board Meeting—C. Britton
*** REVISED CLAIMS
9:10* INFORMATIONAL REPORTS—Brief Reports or announcements concerning pertinent activities of
District Directors and Staff.
9:30* ADJOURNMENT
* Times are estimated and items may appear earlier or later than listed. Agenda is subject to
change of order.
** TO ADDRESS THE BOARD: The Chair will invite public comment on agenda items at the time each
item is considered by the Board of Directors. You may address the Board concerning other
matters during Oral Communications. Each speaker will ordinarily be limited to three minutes.
Alternately,you may comment to the Board by a written communication, which the Board
appreciates.
*** All items on the consent calendar may be approved without discussion by one motion. Board
members, the General Manager, and members of the public may request that an item be removed
from the Consent Calendar during consideration of the Consent Calendar.
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Regional Open 1F -ice
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
Meeting 01-07
REGULAR MEETING
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
March 14, 2001
MINUTES
I. ROLL CALL
President Pete Siemens called the meeting to order at 7:35 p.m.
Members Present: Jed Cyr, Mary Davey, Nonette Hanko,Larry Hassett,Deane Little,
Pete Siemens, and Ken Nitz.
Members Absent: None.
Staff Present: Craig Britton, Sue Schectman, John Maciel, Cathy Woodbury,
Douglas Vu, Lisa Zadek, Thomas Fischer, Del Woods.
H. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS -None.
M. ADOPTION OF AGENDA
Motion: J. Cyr moved that the Board adopt the agenda. L. Hassett seconded and
the motion passed 7 to 0.
IV. ADOPTION OF CONSENT CALENDAR
Staff members answered questions regarding Revised Claims.
K. Nitz removed Agenda Item No. 8, Adopt Resolution Terminating the District's
Agreement with the California Pooled Investment Authority.
Motion: J. Cyr moved that the Board adopt the Consent Calendar, including
approval of the minutes of the December 20, 2000 Special Meeting; draft
response to a letter from Ms. Ellie Ferrari, rferrari2@yahoo.com.; agenda
item 5, Appoint Macias, Gini and Company as the District's Auditors for
the Fiscal Year 2000-2001 and Authorize the General Manager to Execute
the Engagement Letter Agreement in the Amount of$14,800; agenda
item 6, Authorize Staff to Contract with Executive Search Firm of
Wilcox, Miller and Nelson to Assist with the Filling of the Administration
and Human Resources Manager Position at a Cost Not to Exceed $20,000;
agenda item 7, Appoint Lisa Zadek as Acting District Clerk; and Revised
Claims 01-05. K. Nitz seconded the motion. The motion passed 7 to 0.
330 Distel Circle • Los Altos,CA 94022-1404 - Phone:650-691-1200
Fax:650-691-0485 • E-mail:mrosd®openspace.org -Web site:www.openspace.orgJ
Board of Directors:Pete Siemens,Mary C.Davey,Jed Cyr, Deane Little, Nonette Hanko,Larry Hassett,Kenneth C. Nitz -General Manager:L.Craig Britton
l
Meeting 01-07 Page 2
V. BOARD BUSINESS
A. Agenda Item No. 1 —Adoption of the Site Selection Criteria for Future Bench
Locations on District Open Space Preserves - (Report R-01-06).
D. Vu presented the staff report.
C. Britton informed the Board that the picnic tables with plaques at Purisima had
been installed by POST, not the District. He assured them that quality materials
would be used for any District benches.
D. Vu said the District would allow a higher number of benches in high use areas.
C. Britton noted that it is a subjective process. He said the Board would have to
approve each site. Staff will suggest tentative sites. P. Siemens suggested adding
"and viewshed" after the first criterion under Resource and Environment.
Henry Pas, Los Altos, Vice President of ROMP, expressed the personal opinion
that these areas are preserves and not parks. He felt installing benches takes away
from the preserve atmosphere and makes them feel like parks.
Motion: M. Davey moved that the Board adopt the bench site criteria for
future benches located on District open space preserves as
amended to add the words"and viewshed" after the first criterion
under Resource and Environment. L. Hassett seconded the motion.
Discussion: J. Cyr said he liked the idea of criteria but was not anxious to have
a lot of benches.
D. Vu noted that the District does not have an active program
where they install memorial benches.
L. Hassett asked if there were other options available. C. Britton
said not from the District. However, the Board could do what they
wanted from a policy standpoint to acknowledge a founder of the
District or people could go to other agencies that have programs.
Vote: The motion passed 6 to 1 (Director Nitz voted no).
B. Agenda Item No. 2—Proposed Addition of the Lobner Property to Monte Bello
Open Space Preserve;Determine that the Recommended Actions are
Categorically Exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act as Set Out
in this Report; Adopt the Attached Resolution Authorizing Purchase of the
Lobner Property: Tentatively Adopt the Preliminary Use and Management Plan
Recommendations, Includin Ng among the Property as an Addition to Monte Bello
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Meeting 01-07 Page 3
Open Space Preserve. Indicate Intention to Withhold the Property from
Dedication as Public Open Space—(Report R-01-31).
T. Fischer outlined staffs recommendations and showed the property's location
on a map.
T. Fischer said Santa Clara County has had a number of requests to put the bridge
in. M. Williams said the bridge would be used for emergency services. C.
Britton commented that the District would appreciate it from a patrol standpoint.
Regarding keeping motorcycles off District land if the bridge is put in and the
road is improved, T. Fischer said the District would be monitoring the area. C.
Britton said they can gate the trail and will probably work with the County.
T.Fischer said the County has installed a gate to keep out non-residents. He did
not know if the gate would stay after the County improves the road, which is
single lane.
M. Williams outlined the terms and conditions and described a right of first offer.
He added that any houses built prior to 1940 are considered grandfathered, and all
the houses on the property are probably pre-1940. Under today's standards, only
one house would be allowed. He said the demolition of the cabin staff knows is
on the property(but is uninhabitable)would cost about$9,000. He said they are
looking at possible uses of the granite curbing.
Motion: N. Hanko moved that the Board determine that the recommended
actions are categorically exempt from the California
Environmental Quality Act as set out in the staff report; adopt
Resolution 01-06, Resolution of the Board of Directors of the
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District Authorizing
Acceptance of the Purchase Agreement—Bargain Sale,
Authorizing Officer to Execute Certificates of Acceptance of
Grants to District and Execute Grant of Right of First Offer, and
Authorizing General Manager to Execute Any and All Other
Documents Necessary or Appropriate to Closing of the Transaction
(Monte Bello Open Space Preserve—Lands of Lobner); tentatively
adopt the Preliminary Use and Management Plan
recommendations contained in the staff report, including naming
the property as an addition to Monte Bello Open Space Preserve;
and indicate their intention to withhold the property from
dedication as public open space. M. Davey seconded the motion.
The motion passed 7 to 0.
C. Agenda Item No. 3—Adoption of the Action Plan for the Implementation of the
District's Basic Polite for Fiscal Year 2001-2002—(Report R-01-23).
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Meeting 01-07 Page 4
C. Britton reported on the changes and comments from the January meeting that
had been incorporated into the plan.
N. Hanko suggested changing Item 2 on page 2, last sentence, to read, ". . .
including potential connections . . .." She commented that a speaker at the
meeting at the Presidio talked about the need to get the State to fund access to
parks and open space. A legislator who was at the meeting said she was happy to
get the information, but no one had approached her about it. N. Hanko said she
hoped we could use that approach. C. Britton said that is not currently part of the
District's legislative program, but staff could follow it. Staff tracks bills that
would have an impact on the District and has been given authority by the Board to
take a position on them.
P. Siemens suggested removing the word"a" before the word"Maintenance" on
page 16, item c.
The Board President moved the agenda to item 8.
D. Agenda Item No. 8—Adopt Resolution Terminating the District's Agreement
with the California Pooled Investment Authority—(Report R-01-36).
C. Britton noted that the District had withdrawn its funds from the CPIA, but it
was required that the resolution be adopted.
Motion: K. Nitz moved that the Board adopt Resolution No. 01-07,
Resolution of the Board of Directors of the Midpeninsula Regional
Open Space District Terminating the Joint Exercise of Powers
Agreement Creating the California Pooled Investment Authority.
M. Davey seconded the motion. The motion passed 7 to 0.
The Board President moved the agenda back to item 3.
C. Agenda Item No. 3—continued.
C. Woodbury pointed out the changes on the Planning Department Work Program
appendix.
Motion: M. Davey moved that the Board adopt the 2001-2002 Action Plan
for the Implementation of the Basic Policy of the Midpeninsula
Regional Open Space District. N. Hanko seconded the motion.
The motion passed 7 to 0.
E. Agenda Item No. 4-Initial Presentation of the Budget for Fiscal Year 2001-
2002;Review the Proposed Budget for the 2001-2002 Fiscal Year—(Report R-
01-08).
Meeting 01-07 Page 5
C. Britton provided an overview and talked about staffing changes and the 6
percent guideline. He said he thought it was important to plan ahead and to assign
a Guideline discussion it back to the budget committee.
Discussion followed regarding the 6 percent guideline and spending patterns,
including the fact that over the years staff have not spent the money budgeted.
Since 1992, there have been a lot of staff added to manage the increased lands of
the District. Concerns were expressed about the cost of living increase in the Bay
Area, the fact that there is no way of knowing where the economy is heading in
the future, the need for a contingency plan, and the possible decrease in property
taxes.
Motion: M. Davey moved that the Board receive the budget preview. K.
Nitz seconded the motion.
Discussion: Board members complimented staff on the report and the budget
committee on their work.
Vote: The motion passed 7 to 0.
VI. INFORMATIONAL REPORTS
M. Davey: 1. At the Open Space Council event Friday at the Presidio, there was an
announcement from POST about Johnson Ranch. She passed out bumper stickers. There
was also an announcement about Coyote Valley and another one about creating
sustainable communities. 2. The last hearing on the Carnegie property for land west of
Junipero Serra will be before the Santa Clara Board of Supervisors on March 20. She
urged groups to write in support of Carnegie, but not in the proposed location.
K. Nitz wondered why Carnegie was not staying where they were.
N. Hanko: 1. She reported on the Bay Area Open Space Council event noting that it
was well done, and the speakers were outstanding. 2. During the event, N. Hanko
received the life achievement award for B. Crowder. 3. George Miller thanked them for
giving the award to B. Crowder and talked about government spending for land and water
conservation.
L. Hassett: 1. He said he learned a lot at the conference. 2. He will be gone through
April 9.
D. Little: 1. While hiking on Monte Bello, he noticed that Indian Creek Trail is getting
eroded. 2. He talked about the notation on the trail map regarding closure of trails.
C. Britton: 1. He distributed copies of the draft Workplace Enhancement Plan. Meetings
have been held, and there will be two more meetings before it is finalized. 2. He met
with Paul Romero regarding the per capita estimate in Proposition 12 funding. 3. The
Meeting 01-07 Page 6
FYIs included announcement of the De Anza celebration in Cupertino. 4. He referred to
a letter in the FYIs regarding the East Palo Alto Revitalization Plan.
N. Hanko added that she and M. Davey are going to the Los Altos History House that is
beginning its recognition of the District and its efforts through the years with a display.
On September 13, the entire upper floor will be dedicated to the District and its work.
VH. ADJOURNMENT
At 9:50 P.M.,the meeting was adjourned.
Roberta Wolfe
Recording Secretary
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Regional Open Space
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MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
Meeting 01-08
SPECIAL AND REGULAR MEETINGS
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
March 28, 2001
MINUTES
SPECIAL MEETING
I. ROLL CALL
President Pete Siemens called the meeting to order at 7:02 p.m.
Members Present: Jed Cyr, Mary Davey, Nonette Hanko, Deane Little(arrived 7:15
p.m.), Pete Siemens, and Ken Nitz.
Members Absent: Larry Hassett
Staff Present: Craig Britton, S. Schectman, T. Fischer, M. Williams, D. Woods
H. CLOSED SESSION
P. Siemens stated that the Board would adjourn to Closed Session for a conference with
General Counsel.
The Board recessed to Closed Session at 7:02 p.m. and the Closed Session commenced at
7:02 p.m. The Board concluded the Closed Session at 7:20 p.m. No disclosable action
was taken.
REGULAR MEETING
III. P. Siemens called the Regular Meeting to order at 7:34 P.M. and noted that no reportable
actions had taken place in Closed Session.
Members Present: Jed Cyr, Mary Davey, Deane Little, Peter Siemens, and Ken Nitz.
Members Absent: Larry Hassett and Nonette Hanko.
Additional Staff Present: Lisa Zadek, John Escobar, Stephanie Jensen, Cathy
Woodbury, Del Woods, Michel Foster, Sandy Sommer.
330 Distel Circle • Los Altos,CA 94022-1404 * Phone:650-691-1200
Fax:650-691-0485 • E-mail:mrosd@openspace.org •Web site:www.openspace.org ® $'
Board of Directors:Pete Siemens,Mary C. Davey,Jed Cyr,Deane Little,Nonette Hanko,Larry Hassett,Kenneth C. Nitz -Genera(Manager:L.Craig Britton
-08 Page 2
Meeting Ol g �
IV. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Rod Brown, representing ROMP, thanked the District for the proposed response to Mr.
Myers' letter.
Patti Ciesla passed out an article on the environmental effects of mountain biking
compared to hiking in an area that did not have trails.
V. ADOPTION OF AGENDA
Motion: J. Cyr moved that the Board adopt the agenda. M. Davey seconded and
the motion passed 5 to 0.
VI. ADOPTION OF CONSENT CALENDAR
Staff answered questions regarding the Revised Claims. K. Nitz removed agenda item 6,
Authorize the General Manager to Execute a Purchase Contract with the State
Department of General Services and Lasher Auto for Five Vehicles for a Total Cost Not
to Exceed $129,000.
Motion: M. Davey moved that the Board adopt the Consent Calendar, including a
draft response to a letter from Mr. Roger Myers, 3057 Altamont Way,
Redwood City; agenda item 8,Denial of the Claim Against the District
Filed by Vilmar Marquez•, agenda item 9, Authorize the General Manager
to Execute an Agreement with Pinnacle Towers of Sarasota,Florida for
Antenna Site Lease at Skeggs Point; and agenda item 10,Tentative
Adoption of an Amendment to the Comprehensive Use and Management
Plan for Fremont Older Open Space Preserve to Rename Stevens Creek
Trail to Stevens Creek/Tony Look Trail. K. Nitz seconded the motion.
The motion passed 5 to 0.
VH. BOARD BUSINESS
A. Agenda Item No. 1 —Approval of Insurance Coverage for 2001-2002 Fiscal Year
at a Total Cost of$267,400 - eport R-01-43�
III Skip McIntyre, Thoits Insurance, said this is the first time in ten years there had
been a substantial increase in insurance premiums. He explained that the increase
was largely due to the greater number of vehicles and amount of land the District
had, plus there had been claims against the District. S. Schectman described the
claims and explained that the Directors and Officers coverage protects against
liability for acts done in the discharge of official duties. C. Britton noted that staff
had budgeted for a 25 percent increase in premiums.
Motion: J. Cyr moved that the Board approve the property and general
liability, auto, umbrella liability, fidelity bond, and public entity
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! Meeting 01-08 Pagel
errors and omissions insurance bid totaling $267,000 from Thoits
Insurance Brokers, based upon the quotations shown in the staff
report from Travelers, General Accident Insurance, Fireman's
Fund Insurance, Chubb, and United National Insurance for the
period of April 1, 2001 through March 31, 2002. K. Nitz seconded
the motion. The motion passed 5 to 0.
B. Agenda Item No. 2—Final Approval of Fiscal Year 2001-2002 Budget
(A) Controller's Report on the Proposed Fiscal Year 2001-2002 Budget:
(Report R-01-38).
M. Foster talked about the tax income from both Counties. C. Britton noted that
regarding land acquisition, for the first time in the District's history they have
been outbid for property. People were willing to pay highly inflated prices, and
others were not selling. He said it was not because staff was not aggressive and
had not been negotiating to acquire additional open space land.
M. Foster said there was no reason to show a cash balance at the end of the year,
and that was not a goal.
(B) Administration and Budget Committee's Fiscal Year 2001-2002 Budget
Report—(Report R-0144).
K. Nitz presented the report and noted that the Budget Committee had looked at
the 6 percent growth guideline for operating expenses. The growth has been at 10
percent for the last few years. The Committee supported the recommendations
(A), (B), and (C).
(C) Approve a Four-Point (4%) Salary Adjustment for the Represented,
Office Supervisory and Management staff; Adopt the Attached
Resolution Approving the Budget for the 2001-2002 Fiscal Year—(Report
R-01-45).
Motion: M. Davey moved that the Board approve the proposed fiscal year
2001-2002 budget and recommendations described and presented
in the staff report; approve a four point (4%) salary adjustment for
the represented, office, supervisory, and management staff; and
adopt Resolution 01-08, Resolution of the Board of Directors of
the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District Adopting Budget
for Fiscal Year 2001-2002. K. Nitz seconded the motion. The
motion passed 5 to 0.
C. Agenda Item No. 3—Final Adoption of an Amendment to the Use and
Management Plan for Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve Designating the Ridge
Trail Between the Hawk Trail Junction and Rapley Ranch Road as a Multi-Use
Trail — (Report R-01-39).
Meeting 01-08 Page 4
C. Woodbury presented the staff report.
C. Britton talked about how the trail would be monitored in conjunction with the
resource management program, and noted that it will not be a scientific study.
J. Escobar said there would be no trail closures this year because staff needs to
observe the use impacts. However, they can close trails on short notice if there is
noticeable damage. He added that the road has value to the District for patrol
reasons, and is a major regional connection.
Motion: M. Davey moved that the Board adopt an Amendment to the Use
and Management Plan for Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve
designating the Ridge Trail between the Hawk Trail Junction and
Rapley Ranch Road as a multi-use trail. K. Nitz seconded the
motion. The motion passed 5 to 0.
D. Agenda Item No. 4—Authorize the General Manager to Enter into an Agreement
with Eccles Engineering for Civil En ing eering and Geotechnical Engineering
Services for the Methuseleh Bridge Project at El Corte de Madera Creek Open
Space Preserve for a Total Sum not to Exceed $26,500, Authorize the General
Manager to Execute an Agreement with Freyer & Laureta, Inc. for Civil
Engineering Services on Road Repairs on Old Page Mill Road at Skyline Ridge
Open Space Preserve for a Sum not to Exceed $28,300, Authorize the General
Manager to Execute an Amended Agreement with Sycamore Associates for
Biological Consulting Services for Road Repairs and Trail Bridge Construction at
El Corte de Madera Creek Open Space Preserve($8,600)and for the Potential
Amendment to the Use and Management Plan for Windy Hill Open Space
Preserve($4,400) for a Total Sum not to Exceed $13,000—(Report R-01-37).
S. Sommer presented the staff report. S. Schectman said the District is not
required to go out to advertised bid for professional services.
S. Sommer said they had been awarded FEMA funds for repairs, and the funds
must be used this year. The information gathered would be added to the District's
database. She said staff doesn't know what the project is yet; that will be
determined by the consultant. She added that the Town of Portola Valley had
surveyed for frogs and had done mitigation work during construction of the
Kabcenell driveway.
Patti Ciesla asked about the necessity of maintaining the Page Mill trail as a road-
width trail.
J. Escobar noted that it is an historical road and 99 percent of it is intact. Given
that it could be a major regional trail connection, he thought repairing it was
worth the investment. Most of the road is stable with the exception of these bad
f Meeting 01-08 Page 5
spots. He said this will make a remarkable trail and will accommodate multi-use
as well.
Motion: D. Little moved that the Board authorize the General Manager to
execute an agreement with Eccles Engineering of San Jose for
consulting services for the Methuseleh Bridge project at El Corte
de Madera Creek Open Space Preserve ($16,500), and for
unanticipated planning and land protection projects at various
preserves($10,000), for a total sum not to exceed $26,500;
authorize the General Manager to execute an agreement with
Freyer&Laureta, Inc. of San Mateo for civil engineering services
on road repairs on Old Page Mill Road at Skyline Ridge Open
Space Preserve, for a sum not to exceed $28,300; and authorize the
General Manager to execute an amended agreement with
Sycamore Associates of Walnut Creek for biological consulting
services for road repairs and trail bridge construction at El Corte de
Madera Creek Open Space Preserve($8,600), and for the potential
amendment to the Use and Management Plan for Windy Hill Open
Space Preserve($4,400), for a total sum not to exceed $13,000. J.
Cyr seconded the motion. The motion passed 5 to 0.
E. Agenda Item No. 5—Approval of President Siemens' Recommendation to
Appoint Directors Hassett Nitz, and Hanko to a Newly Formed Coastal
Annexation Ad Hoc Committee, Including Determining that the Committee
would be Compensable- (Report R-01-48).
P. Siemens reviewed his appointments.
Motion: J. Cyr moved that the Board approve the Board President's
appointment of Directors Hassett,Nitz and Hanko to the newly
formed Coastal Annexation Ad Hoc Committee, and determine
that the Committee would be compensable. K. Nitz seconded the
motion. The motion passed 5 to 0.
F. Agenda Item No. 6—Authorize the General Manager to Execute a Purchase
Contract with the State Department of General Services and Lasher Auto for Five
Vehicles for a Total Cost Not to Exceed $129,000— (Report R-01-34).
K. Nitz said he had removed this item from the Consent Calendar because he did
not think anything over $50,000 should be a consent item. C. Britton said the
Board would need to consider this if there was a desire to create a new policy. K.
Nitz asked if there were Firestone tires on the District's emergency vehicles. J.
Escobar said they had not purchased Firestone tires.
Motion: K. Nitz moved that the Board authorize the General Manager to
execute a purchase contract with the State Department of General
Meeting 01-08 Page 6
Services for five vehicles at a total cost not to exceed $129,000.
M. Davey seconded the motion. The motion passed 5 to 0.
G. Agenda Item No. 7—Approve the Annual Claims List, Including;Debt Service
Payments for the 2001-2002 Fiscal Year—(Report R-01-48).
C. Britton explained that this was not a consent item because it was reflected in
the budget and the budget had not been approved when the Consent Calendar was
considered.
Motion: M. Davey moved that the Board approve the annual claims list,
including debt service payments for the 2001-2002 fiscal year. J.
Cyr seconded the motion. The motion passed 5 to 0.
VIII. REVISED CLAIMS
Staff answered several specific questions about Revised Claims.
Motion: J. Cyr moved that the Board approve Revised Claims 01-06. K. Nitz
seconded the motion. The motion passed 5 to 0.
IX. INFORMATIONAL REPORTS
M. Davey reported that the Board of Supervisors had postponed the decision on the
Carnegie Foundation site on Stanford land until May 8. The chances of the plan to build
8 Y
in the foothills succeeding are not good because the criteria outlined in the community
plan have not been met.
K. Nitz said the Use and Management Committee met at Windy Hill Saturday. They
discussed the Sausal Trail and Kabcenell bridge, and there was a large group of people
including staff members.
D. Little agreed that the Use and Management meeting was great. He said the driveway
and bridge were uglier than he had expected and noted that he had voted against it. He
said he would like to go ahead with the alternate trail rather than ask preserve visitors to
use the driveway.
J. Cyr was also at the U&M meeting. He said one of the reasons it was a great meeting
was that there were people representing lots of user issues and viewpoints, as well as
staff. He said staff responses to comments and questions from the public and Board
members were well prepared and professionally handled.
C. Britton: 1. The Special District Forum will be in Plymouth, Minnesota on June 13-16.
2. He passed out copies of an article from the California Parks and Recreation Society
n h impact f parks n r values. 3. He had lunch with Ka CPRS magazine o the act o a s o property� ) g P p P p Y Y
Duffy and updated her on District activities. 4. Next week is the first hearing on AB 953
l Meeting 01-08 Page 7
authored by J. Simitian. LAFPAC met and approved a recommended amendment
proposed by Marin County but decided not to propose it until it gets to the Senate. He
will be going to.Sacramento to testify. 5. He had passed out the Workplace
Enhancement Plan at the last meeting. He said they have met with staff and the
committee has put the final touches on it and passing out the final version. 6. He said the
staff's casual dress was because of the Art O'Neal refresher classes. There were 18-20
new employees in attendance.
J. Escobar: 1. He said he had been at the CPRS conference during the last meeting. 2.
They have completed the draft language for the brochure for Administrative Services and
Human Resources Manager, and the closing date is May 7.
C. Woodbury said she had attended the American Planning Association(APA)
conference. She said they had a program on planning for regional biodiversity.
S. Jensen: 1. She followed up regarding the press release on the truck donation. She
worked with J. Schaeffer, volunteer fire department chief. They want the press release to
go out at the fire awareness season. 2. She had vacationed on an island off the Yucatan
of Mexico where they are working to preserve the island.
By consensus, the Board appointed J. Cyr as Secretary Pro Tem.
X. ADJOURNMENT
At 8:43 P.M.,the meeting was adjourned.
Roberta Wolfe
Recording Secretary
I
Regional Open ,' ice
2
1
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
May 24,2001
Mr. Charlie Edge
Leading Edge Technology, Inc.
1015 Helena Dr.
Sunnyvale, CA 94087
Dear Mr. Edge:
The District Board of Directors reviewed your May 3, 2001 letter received by fax, concerning equestrian use at Rancho
San Antonio Open Space Preserve. We are pleased that you are able to enjoy the preserve on such a regular basis. Staff
also feels that this area is a treasure that deserves the highest level of care.
Rancho San Antonio is our busiest preserve. The P.G.& E. Trail and the Coyote Trail provide a loop ride for equestrians
from the staging area and trail links to other preserves. From time to time,visitors will experience impacts and conflicts
as a result of its popularity. Fortunately,equestrian use at this preserve is relatively infrequent and rarely results in the
problem you encountered. We have passed your report regarding manure on to the Foothills patrol and maintenance
staff. They will contact equestrians about keeping the staging area clean. Given your frequent visits to the preserve,we
assume you are well aware of the preserve trails that are closed to equestrian use.
In providing public access, we strive to balance and accommodate the interests of a wide variety of user groups and
constituents. Horses have been a part of local recreational trail use since the early history of the area,and horseback
riding continues to be a popular pastime for local area residents. As John Maciel,District Operations Manager,reported
in his May 15,2001 telephone conversation with you,ten years ago Santa Clara County Parks completed a Master Plan
for Rancho San Antonio which identified all recreational uses permitted within the park. The Master Plan retained
equestrian use of the trail system. Equestrian parking and staging is now provided at the gravel parking area serviced by
the roadway to the left as you enter the park. The equestrian use provided for in the County Park Master Plan is also
consistent with the District's Trail Use Policies and the Preserve Use and Management Plan. We do not anticipate
reviewing these policies in the near future. However, we will keep your letter on file for consideration when the Rancho
San Antonio Plan Use and Management Plan is reviewed.
We appreciate the time you took to communicate your concerns, and we hope you will continue to enjoy the District's
trails.
Wte' ieimens,
President
Board of Directors
CC: Board of Directors
PS.je:kh
330 Distel Circle • Los Altos, CA 94022-1404 • Phone:650-691-1200
Fax:650-691-0485 • E-mail:mrosd@openspace.org •Web site:www.openspace.org SIM T
Board of Directors:Pete Siemens,Mary C. Davey,Jed Cyr,Deane Little, Nonette Hanko,Larry Hassett, Kenneth C. Nitz •General Manager:L.Craig Britton
Regional Open ' ace
1
1
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
DRAFT RESPONSE
PREPARED BY STAFF
FOR BOARD CONSIDERATION
Mr. Charlie Edge
Leading Edge Technology, Inc.
1015 Helena Dr.
Sunnyvale, CA 94087
Dear Mr. Edge:
The District Board of Directors reviewed your May 3, 2001 letter received by fax, concerning equestrian use at Rancho
San Antonio Open Space Preserve. We are pleased that you are able to enjoy the preserve on such a regular basis. Staff
also feels that this area is a treasure that deserves the highest level of care.
Rancho San Antonio is our busiest preserve. The P.G.&E. Trail and the Coyote Trail provide a loop ride for equestrians
from the staging area and trail links to other preserves. From time to time,visitors will experience impacts and conflicts
as a result of its popularity. Fortunately, equestrian use at this preserve is relatively infrequent and rarely results in the
problem you encountered. We have passed your report regarding manure on to the Foothills patrol and maintenance
staff. They will contact equestrians about keeping the staging area clean. Given your frequent visits to the preserve,we
assume you are well aware of the preserve trails that are closed to equestrian use.
In providing public access,we strive to balance and accommodate the interests of a wide variety of user groups and
t.onstituents. Horses have been a part of local recreational trail use since the early history of the area,and horseback
riding continues to be a popular pastime for local area residents. As John Maciel, District Operations Manager,reported
in his May 15, 2001 telephone conversation with you,ten years ago Santa Clara County Parks completed a Master Plan
Por Rancho San .ntoQio which identified all recreational uses permitted within the park. The Master Plan retained
u:,questrian use of the trail system. Equestrian parking and staging is now provided at the gravel parking area serviced by
the roadway to the left as you enter the park. The equestrian use provided for in the County Park Master Plan is also
consistent with the District's Trail Use Policies and the Preserve Use and Management Plan. We do not anticipate
reviewing these policies in the near future. However, we will keep your letter on file for consideration when the Rancho
San Antonio Plan Use and Management Plan is reviewed.
We appreciate the time you took to communicate your concerns, and we hope you will continue to enjoy the District's
trails.
Sincerely,
Fete Siemens, President
Board of Directors
(IC: Board of Directors
PS.je:kh
330 Distel Circle • Los Altos, CA 94022-1404 • Phone:650-691-1200
Fax: 650-691-0485 • E-mail: mrosd@openspace.org •Web site:www.openspace.org ft�fl ff".m.
Board of Directors:Pete Siemens,Mary C.Davey,Jed Cyr,Deane Little, Nonette Hanko,Larry Hassett,Kenneth C.Nitz •General Manager:L.Craig Britton
05/03/2001 12:48 4087334590 LET PAGE 01
Leading Edge Technology, Inc
1015 Helena Dr
Sunnyvale, CA 94087
Tel 408 730 0450 Fax 408 733 4590
Email wcedgc@aimnet.com
Date May 3,2001
Pages I
To Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
ae Board of Directors
cc
From Charlie Edge
Re Rancho San Antonio- equestrians
My wife has been hiking the trails of this beautiful preserve for over a year. I recently started and
have just completed my 44th consecutive day of hiking. All but one has been 100%enjoyable.
This past Sunday,April 29, I arrived at the first parking lot about 10-00am. I could not believe it
but two large horse trailers were trying to unload their contents and park. Cars could not move
" around them without risking trouble. Seven horses unloaded and proceeded to the trails.
I then started up the steep hill and was about 150 feet behind the horses 7. I could not believe
such a beautiful place was being messed up by a bunch of large animals...after all I note that
dogs are not allowed. x
The horses were leaving droppings every 50 or so feet and I mean large piles. The stench was
horrible and I almost had to leave. Instead, several others and I decided to put up with the smell
and continue. Luckily they turned left at the top and proceeded up the PG&E trail.
How can common sense allow this to continue?I am asking you to consider immediately
banning all horses from those fabulous trails. I had noticed sparsely spaced horse droppings
" before but never so closely spaced as this was.
Your serious consideration is appreciated because I want to continue to enjoy this magnificent
place. You are to be commended for taking such good care of this treasure.
Sinc ly,
f
Charlie Edge
Te14087300450
Sunnyvale
MAY 3 2001
�i
i
Regional Open ice
1
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
R-01-63
Meeting 0 1-12
May 23, 2001
AGENDA ITEM 1
I
AGENDA ITEM
Progress Report on the Sierra Azul Open Space Preser a Resource I ventory and Assessment Project
GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMENDAT
Receive and comment on the progress report for the Sierra Azul Open Space Preserr6 Resource
Inventory Project.
BACKGROUND
Development of a master plan for Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve was identified as a key, long-term
project in the fiscal year 1999-2000 Planning Work Program. The Use and Management Committee
met with staff in June and November 1999 to formulate detailed goals and objectives for this project.
To bring the District's master planning process in line with the Resource Management Policies, a key
goal emerged from these meetings: design a state-of-the-art planning process that integrates detailed
field studies and resource analysis into the preserve planning process. Accordingly, at your December
15, 1999 regular meeting, you authorized staff to begin contracting for a detailed, field-based inventory
and assessment of the natural and cultural resources in Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve as the first
phase of the Sierra Azul master planning process (see Report R-99-155).
DISCUSSION
This report summarizes the Sierra Azul Resource Inventory project. Detailed information is contained
in an Administrative Draft Report which is currently being reviewed by staff.
In January 2000, the District contracted with ten highly regarded resource specialists to initiate the
resource inventory mapping effort. In addition to documenting the preserve's resources, the team of
staff and consultants worked to achieve three main objectives:
1. Develop and Test New Planning Methods
As the District's first comprehensive resource inventory, this project serves as a critical pilot
program to test various resource data-collection methods and to gauge their usefulness and utility in
the next stages of the planning process. As the project progresses through the resource inventory
! and master planning phases, staff will document the methods that are most useful and cost-effective
so that they can be applied to future resource planning projects.
330 Distel Circle + Los Altos,CA 94022-1404 • Phone:650-691-1200
Fax:650-691-0485 • E-mail:mrosd@openspace.org •Web site:www.openspace.org ® j
Board of Directors:Pete Siemens,Mary C.Davey,Jed Cyr, Deane Little,Nonette Hanko,Larry Hassett,Kenneth C.Nitz -General Manager:L.Craig Britton
R-01-63 Page 2
2. Incorporate Science into the Planning Process
The District is striving to create a master plan that accommodates public use and access within Sierra
Azul, while serving primarily to protect and restore the long-term integrity of the preserve's natural
and cultural resources. Recognizing that Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve is part of a larger
ecosystem, the project study area focuses on regional rather than political boundaries. A key
objective of the project is to incorporate the latest concepts of conservation biology, wildlife
ecology, geology, and hydrology into the planning process. Thus, staff chose not to retain a larger
consulting firm to manage the project, but to work directly with consulting resource specialists to
benefit from their expertise.
3. Develop and Utilize Geographic Information System (GIS) Technology
A geographic information system (GIS) is a powerful computer mapping system that allows one to
associate features on a digital map with information stored in a spatial database. As the resource
specialists conducted their inventory work on the preserve, the data they collected on the vegetation,
wildlife habitat, geology, and other systems was entered into the GIS. Different layers of resource
information can be combined and synthesized to facilitate the preserve planning process, particularly
in regard to making recommendations concerning resource management. For example, through GIS
analysis, California red-legged frog data collected during the Sierra Azul Resource Inventory could
be combined with vegetation data to analyze the habitat value of certain riparian forests in Sierra
Azul Open Space Preserve. This information could then be used to develop specialized resource
management plans that protect the key riparian areas, or it could be used to identify other habitats in
which the reintroduction of the frog might be successful. Any new data collected in the future will
be added to the GIS. In this way, an increasingly clear picture of the preserve's resources will
emerge, allowing staff to refine resource protection efforts.
Summary of Sierra Azul Natural and Cultural Resource Inventory
The team of staff and consultants spent over a year mapping and evaluating the preserve's natural and
cultural resources. This comprehensive resource inventory encompassed botany and wildlife (including
endangered species), geology and soils, hydrology and water quality, historic and archaeological
resources, and the preserve's road and trail system. A brief summary of the consultants' findings is
attached.
Next Steps
Phase one of the Sierra Azul Resource Inventory project resulted in three extensive, stand-alone
reports; a comprehensive Administrative Draft; dozens of detailed resource maps; and a robust GIS
database. This baseline information will help the team understand the ecological condition of Sierra
Azul and the surrounding open space lands in order to better formulate resource management
recommendations, and will provide a critical foundation for the second phase of the planning process.
Phase two will focus on the development of the master plan itself, which, when finalized, will serve as
a guiding vision to direct the development of trails, staging areas, environmental interpretation
facilities, and other potential recreation and staff facilities within the preserve. This will help facilitate
implementation of key regional trails, notably the Bay Area Ridge Trail, which connects the preserve to
Lexington Reservoir in the west, Almaden Quicksilver County Park in the north and east, and to the
R-01-63 Page 3
Soquel Demonstration Forest in the south. The plan will also contain an extensive resource
management element, including site-specific projects to protect and restore the preserve's ecological
values. By inventorying the preserve's resources and mapping locations of environmental sensitivity
during phase one, staff can focus planning efforts in phase two on appropriate areas and avoid
development in sensitive locations. In this way, the master plan will be largely self-mitigating. The
master plan will have an associated Environmental Impact Report (EIR) document, which will ensure
compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act(CEQA).
Staff anticipates preparing a Request for Proposals (RFP) for master planning assistance by late summer
2001, with the goal of having a consultant on board in the fall. This effort is a key project in the fiscal
g g
year 2001-2002 Planning Work Program, and is included in the Planning Department's budget.
Prepared by:
Matthew Freeman, Open Space Planner II
Contact person:
Same as above
Attachment Page 1
SUMMARY OF SIERRA AZUL OPEN SPACE PRESERVE
RESOURCE INVENTORY
• Geological Resources
The Sierra Azul study area is located in the central portion of the Coast Ranges Physiographic Province
of California. The Coast Ranges Province is made up of a series of coastal mountain chains paralleling
the pronounced northwest-southeast structural grain of central California geology between Point
Arguello, in Santa Barbara County, and the California/Oregon border. Underlying the study area and
surrounding region are Franciscan Formation and Coast Range Ophiolite basement rocks consisting of
sheared and deformed sandstone, shale, and volcanic units mixed with remnants of oceanic crust
(ophiolite), all of Jurassic to Cretaceous age.
All but the youngest of these rocks show evidence of deformation, a result of the active tectonic
environment of the study area. The deformation includes tipping and folding of rock layers and offset
of rock units by numerous faults.
The study region has been separated into two structural blocks, the Sierra Azul and New Almaden
blocks, based on lithology and structural setting (McLaughlin et al., in press (d)). The Sierra Azul
block, which underlies the southwestern portion of the study area, is bounded by the San Andreas fault
to the southwest and the Aldercroft, Sierra Azul, and Berrocal faults on the northeast.
The principal active, or potentially active, faults relevant to the study area include the San Andreas,
Hayward, Calaveras, Sargent, Shannon, and Monte Vista faults. Of these, the San Andreas, which has
been responsible for several large, historic earthquakes, is the most active, and is the primary source
for large earthquakes that may affect the study area in the future.
The Sierra Azul project area, rich in various minerals and mineral resources, has been mined for
mercury, limestone, stone, chromite, and copper. The history of mercury mining in the California
Coast Ranges predates the discovery of gold by several years. Some of the first mines were located in
New Almaden,just northeast of the planning area. The discovery of gold in 1848 produced a healthy
market for the mining of mercury since it forms an amalgam with gold, increasing the chances of gold
recovery. The mercury was mined principally from its ore, cinnabar, but some elemental mercury was
also found in the study area. In general, the largest outcrops of these rocks tend to be in the northern
section of the study area, which is where the mercury mining was concentrated.
The study area has a long history of use, and there are roads that were developed in the earlier history
of the area that have fallen into disuse. These roads are now obscured by vegetation and do not appear
on current maps. However, the original roadbeds are still in existence and may, therefore, still have an
eroding impact on slopes and drainages.
In general, road conditions are varied depending on the amount and type of use to which the road is
subjected. PG&E uses Woods Trail and Lime Kiln Trail to access power line facilities. These roads
are wide, generally of low to moderate gradient, and have well-maintained surfaces. Roads that serve
multiple private residences, such as Loma Prieta Road, have not been maintained as well; they
sometimes have rutted surfaces and infrequent areas of uncontrolled or non-functioning drainage, but
are generally in good condition. Less frequently used or maintained roads, such as "Barlow Road" and
"Cothran Road", and the less-traveled roads in the Rancho de Guadalupe area, are narrow, frequently
rutted, have poor drainage control, and are routinely narrowed by slumps or slides falling out of the
i
Attachment Page 2
road cut. Portions of "Kennedy Road", while in good repair, have unacceptably steep segments that
will require an elevated level of long-term maintenance.
Hydrological Resources
Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve consists of 15,000 acres of mountainous terrain. Much of the land
owned by the District is in the headwaters of the Guadalupe and Los Gatos Creeks, which provide an
important component of the water supply for the Santa Clara Valley.
Rainfall occurs mainly between November and April, although 75% of that is typically received
between January and March. Total annual rainfall varies based on elevation, with approximately 22
inches failing in the principal stream valleys and up to 60 inches falling on the peaks and ridges.
Such intense rainfall, thin soils, and steep topography combine to produce a runoff response that can be
characterized as quick and dramatic, with flash flood-like conditions occurring throughout Sierra Azul.
The timing of the rainfall, summer drought, and lack of significant soil storage produce a vegetative
community dominated by various species of California chaparral, which are well-adapted to the dry
conditions and which are prone to frequent, intense episodes of fire that denude the hillslopes. All this,
combined with the fact that the terrain is steep and the periods of rain, when they come, intense, results
in the frequent mass movement of soil from the hillslope to the channel. Consequently, stream
channels in the Sierra Azul region are dominated by a thin layer of coarse, alluvial substrate overlying
predominately bedrock channels that are continually being incised by high stormflows. The extreme
variability and flashy nature produce steep, narrow canyons dominated by cobble-boulder streambeds
with coarse, unsorted floodplain features.
The principle watersheds draining Sierra Azul are Los Gatos Creek, Guadalupe Creek, and tributaries
to Alamitos Creek such as Hebert and Barrett Creeks. There are currently four large reservoirs that
store water draining from the Sierra Azul area: Lexington Reservoir and Lake Elsman on Los Gatos
Creek, Guadalupe Reservoir on the Guadalupe River, and Almaden Reservoir on Alamitos Creek. The
majority of these reservoirs were developed as water storage reservoirs for groundwater recharge in the
Santa Clara Valley in response to diminishing groundwater tables and land subsidence. Lake Elsman is
owned by the San Jose Water Company and provides drinking water to their service areas in the Santa
Clara Valley.
Local domestic uses of water come predominately from wells, though there are likely to be small
surface water diversions that occur on private inholdings adjacent to District property. A concern for
the quality of existing water resources on District land is the proliferation of active and abandoned
roads on the property. Sierra Azul is crisscrossed with a number of roads that began as either mining
roads, seasonal access roads, or fuel breaks. Another concern is the presence of unmaintained,
undersized, or failing culverts, as well as the hundreds of places that roads or trails cross streams.
Vegetation Resources
Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve is situated within the San Francisco Bay Area of the California
Floristic Province. The preserve has been identified as supporting fourteen major plant community
types (formations). These fourteen groups have been further refined into 31 subunits (series and
associations).
The primary vegetation types (formations) are evergreen forests (broadleaf evergreen forest, needleleaf
evergreen forest, temporarily flooded deciduous forest, deciduous forests [not flooded]), woodlands
Attachment Page 3
(evergreen woodlands, deciduous woodlands), shrublands (broadleaf evergreen shrublands,
microphyllous [small-leaved] evergreen shrublands, drought-deciduous evergreen shrublands, deciduous
shrublands), grasslands (perennial grasslands, seasonally flooded grasslands, saturated herbaceous
grasses and annual grassland).
In addition to areas of native vegetation types, there are also areas indicating past disturbance, as
evidenced by areas of invasive, non-native plants. Access roads (used as multi-use trails) that traverse
portions of the preserve, have resulted in bare areas through the chaparral and forest habitats.
The presence of serpentine in Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve supports a high diversity of unique plant
community types and native plants, including those listed by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service
(USFWS) and/or the California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG) as threatened or endangered.
CDFG and the California Native Plant Society (CNPS) have also recognized other plant species in the
preserve as rare or locally unique, including red ribbon clarkia, most beautiful jewelflower, and wicker
buckwheat. In addition, previous records of special status species have also been documented on the
preserve.
In addition to special status plant species that are listed at the state and federal level, there are also species
i
that local botanists, including the local chapter of the California Native Plant Society, consider to be
specialty plants of the Sierra Azul region. Such species may have limited occurrences within the Santa
Cruz Mountains (locally rare), or may be endemic to the Sierra Azul region. The serpentine-related plant
communities on the preserve (grasslands, oak woodland, foothill pine and shrublands) support several of
these specialty plant species.
Previous fires within the preserve have greatly influenced the distribution and species composition of the
chaparral species and pine forest types found there. The majority of the pine forest types and the
interdigitating pattern of the shrublands in the Mt. Umunhum and Loma Prieta areas, for example, are the
result of fire patterns, as most of the trees and shrubs in this portion of the preserve have re-established
themselves since the most recent fires.
Wildlife Resources
The Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve provides a wide variety of habitats and thus supports a diverse
assemblage of wildlife species.
The large size and relatively undeveloped landscape of the Sierra Azul region makes it an extremely
important resource for wildlife. With the pressures of urbanization in the Santa Clara Valley to the east
and the boom of residential development to the west, Sierra Azul stands out as a critical portion of the
Santa Cruz Mountain range for the survival of native wildlife species. With its geographic proximity to
the south end of San Francisco Bay and to the Pacific Ocean, Sierra Azul provides temporary or
seasonal habitat for some migratory species and also represents the southern-most and northern-most
extent of the geographical range for other wildlife species. It provides forested habitat, shrublands,
grasslands, and aquatic habitats (ponds, human-made reservoirs, seeps, springs, and intermittent and
perennial creeks).
Special status wildlife species are also known to be within the preserve, including those proposed for
listing, or already listed, as threatened or endangered under either state or federal endangered species
laws. An example is the California red-legged frog. Species listed by the State as California Species of
Special Concern are also present, such as the southwestern pond turtle. Several other special status
Attachment Page 4
species were evaluated, but considered unlikely to inhabit, or make significant use of, Sierra Azul
because the preserve lacks suitable habitat or critical habitat features required by the species, or is
outside the normal range of the species.
Archeological and Historical Resources
Native Costanoans, who spoke the dialects of Tamyen and Awaswas, lived in the geographical area
containing Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve. They survived by utilizing plants, fish, and animals from
their own local environments and by trading for food and other resources with other cultural groups.
Although ridges were often used as trails in other parts of California, the configuration of the steep,
scrub-covered ridges of what is now Sierra Azul, as well as the summer droughts, made the area
unsuitable for permanent habitation. Also, Sierra Azul did contain oak and pine, its bedrock outcrops
were not suitable for seed- and nut-processing mortars. More resources and more comfortable living
conditions were found inland, on the coast, and along major Bay Area waterways. These reasons
support the conclusion that permanent settlement by Native Americans in the Sierra Azul region was
unlikely.
The first Euroamerican settlement of the area, later to become known as the Town of Lexington, was
located a few miles south of the Town of Los Gatos. Permanent settlement began about 1848 when two
men, Captain Julian Hanks and Isaac Branham, built one of the first operating sawmills in Santa Clara
County on Los Gatos Creek in order to process the huge amounts of lumber being harvested.
During the 1850s, hunters, as well as sawyers cutting timber for Jones Mill, accessed the region
extensively. Persons attempting to locate mineral resources also scoured the hills. By 1861, deposits
of lime, quicksilver, coal, copper, marble, oil, silver, and gold were sought and, in varying degrees,
located within the area between what is now State Highway 17 and Hicks Road.
A few families had made their homes in the Santa Cruz Mountains by the 1850s. During the 1860s,
settlement was concentrated primarily along Hicks Road on the eastern boundary of the preserve and
along Los Gatos Creek near what is now Lexington reservoir. Founded in 1858 by John Henning at the
former site of Jones Mill, the small town of Lexington soon enjoyed a reputation as a thriving lumber
community, and families settled in the hills surrounding the town. The mountains between Lexington
and Hicks Road, however, continued to be sparsely inhabited.
By the early 1870s, homesteaders, particularly Austrian, German, and later, Swiss and Italian
immigrants, were attracted to the area known as Austrian Gulch, as well as to the area between Mt.
Thayer and Loma Prieta. This was undeveloped public land and was less expensive to purchase than
farms in the nearby valley. These new residents planted vineyards and orchards in areas where the
topography was suitable. Unfortunately, earthquakes and fires have always been a problem to
settlements in this area: the major earthquakes in 1906 and 1989 caused extensive damage, and notable
fires occurred in 1861, 1899, and 1923.
The points of interest now known as Soda Springs Creek and Soda Springs Road got their names from a
mineral spring that was located a short distance up Los Gatos Creek.
i
• Sierr Azul Open Space F iserve
Resource Inventory Project Boundary Map
x _
Sierra Azul 1
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Regional Open S ice
1
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
R-01-61
Meeting 01-12
May 23, 2001
AGENDA ITEM -2-
AGENDA ITEM
Program Evaluation for the 2000-2001 Action Plan for t e Imple*ntation of the Basic Policy of
the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATION
Comment on and accept staffs program evaluation report.
DISCUSSION
The attached program evaluation material covers the 2000-2001 fiscal year. Staff will brief you
at your May 23 regular meeting on the status of key projects, plus additional projects and
activities not specifically included in the Action Plan that required significant staff effort.
You adopted the new Action Plan for the 2001-2002 fiscal year at your March 14, 2001 meeting.
Copies of both Action Plans are available at the District office for public inspection.
Prepared by:
L. Craig Britton, General Manager D. Vu, Open Space Planner I
J. Escobar, Assistant General Manager A. Ruiz, Open Space Planner I
S. Schectman, General Counsel D. Dart, Planning Technician
L. Zadek, Acting District Clerk M. Williams, Real Property Rep
J. Maciel, Operations Manager D. Woods, Sr. Acquisition Planner
G. Baillie, Management Analyst T. Fischer, Land Protection Specialist
J. Isaacs, Resource Management Specialist S. Jensen, Public Affairs Manager
C. Woodbury, Planning Manager L. Raymaker, Docent Coordinator
S. Sommer, Senior Planner P. McKowan, Volunteer Coordinator
M. Freeman, Open Space Planner II K. Webb, Public Affairs Specialist
J. Cahill, Open Space Planner H
Contact person:
L. Craig Britton, General Manager
330 Distel Circle • Los Altos,CA 94022-1404 • Phone:650-691-1200
Fax:650-691-0485 • E-mail:mrosd®openspace.org • Web site:www.openspace.org *w—
Board of Directors:Pete Siemens,Mary C.Davey,Jed Cyr,Deane Little, Nonette Hanko,Larry Hassett,Kenneth C.Nitz •General Manager:L.Craig Britton
OPEN SPACE ACQUISITION PROGRAM
Subprograms
A. Negotiations and Special Projects
B. Enterprise
C. Land Protection
To Implement the
BASIC POLICY OBJECTIVE:
The District seeks to purchase or otherwise acquire interest in the maximum feasible area of
strategic open space land within the District planning areas, including baylands and foothills.
The District seeks to link its open space lands with federal, state, county, and city parklands and
watershed lands.
General Program Emphasis for 2000-2001
The program's emphasis will be to acquire the higher priority projects funded under the District's
Financing Authority. Lower priority properties will be pursued through long-term options,
available grant funding, bargain sales, and gifts. The District will continue to work with
Peninsula Open Space Trust(POST)to acquire land and to further the District's overall open
space acquisition goals. The Enterprise Subprogram will focus on maximizing rental income
consistent with Open Space Management policies and on maintaining and improving District
rental structures. The Land Protection Subprogram will focus on conducting comprehensive
land acquisition studies, monitoring land use planning activities surrounding District preserves,
and protect interests in land by resolving conflicts arising from easement and encroachment
issues. In the event the California Safe Neighborhoods, Clean Water, Clean Air and Coastal
Protection Bond Act of 2000 (Proposition 12) is passed by the voters in March, this action plan
may require amendment for final Board approval to provide for the additional acquisition efforts
that may be needed to respond to additional grant funds.
Staff Resources
(Regular, full-time positions, unless otherwise indicated)
Land Acquisition Manager(vacant position)
Real Property Representative
Senior Acquisition Planner
Land Protection Specialist
Real Property Assistant
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PROGRESS:
• The District acquired or preserved approximately 1,131 acres of open space lands in eleven
preserves during the 2000-2001 fiscal year, including the 284-acre Russian Convent property
creating the Mills Creek Open Space Preserve, the 258.91-acre Krone-Bishop property
addition to El Sereno Open Space Preserve, the 98.16-acre Connor and 94.8-acre Quam
property additions to Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve,the 136-acre Silva property
addition to Skyline Ridge Open Space Preserve, a cost-free transfer of the 9:58-acre San
Mateo County Park property addition to Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve, the
9.01-acre Collins property addition to Thornewood Open Space Preserve, the 23-acre Town
of Portola Valley conservation easement addition to Windy Hill Open Space Preserve, the 6-
acre Arlie & Company(Mellot's) property addition to Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space
Preserve, the 72.66 Beneddetti property addition to Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve, the
41.75-acre Williams property addition, and completion of the"defeasible fee" additions of
the 161.7-acre General Convention and 19-acre Lee properties to the Cathedral Oaks Area of
Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve, the 2.2-acre Benson property addition to the Kennedy
Limekiln Area of Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve, the 40-acre Fletscher property addition,
and 12.81-acre Pizarek and 2.18-acre"Hacienda Park" parcel gifts addition, to the Mt.
Umunhum area of Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve, and the approval of the 40-acre Lobner
property addition to Monte Bello Open Space Preserve.
2000-2001
Negotiations and Special Projects Subproeram
Objective
To provide for the acquisition of all real property rights necessary to secure a recreational and
open space greenbelt in the foothills and baylands, including rounding out and improving public
access to existing preserves and connecting District preserves with other public lands.
Key Projects
1. New Land Commitments - Convert the budgeted funds in the New Land Commitments
budget category into open space lands, at desirable prices, focusing on the higher priority
properties which specifically protect the greenbelt—including rounding out and improving
public access to existing preserves, connecting to other preserves or public lands, protecting
the natural habitat and resources, and furthering the completion of the San Francisco Bay
Trail and Bay Area Ridge Trail with potential ultimate trail connections to the Pacific Coast.
Balance the desirability of the potential acquisition with the availability of budgeted funds,
including, if possible, private financing with favorable terms and obtaining trail easements
PROGRESS:
• The District acquired the 94.8-acre Quam and 98.16-acre Connor properties as additions
to the Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve. Both properties provide wildlife, watershed
protection and scenic views from the Bay Area Ridge Trail. Mindego Creek runs through
the southern half of the Quam property with a densely wooded canyon including old-
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growth Douglas fir trees. The Connor property includes the headwaters of Woodruff
Creek, oak woodlands and grassland meadows.
• The District acquired the 258.91-acre Krone-Bishop property as an addition to the El
Sereno Open Space Preserve. This was a key acquisition in rounding out the preserve
and protecting the greenbelt adjacent to Monte Sereno. As part of this transaction, the
District entered into a three party agreement with 22 adjoining landowners, and San Jose
Water Company to construct a replacement water system to serve the landowners. This
agreement released the District from the obligations of providing water service and road
maintenance which had burdened this property and frustrated acquisition efforts for over
twenty years.
• The District acquired the 136-acre Silva Property as an addition to the Skyline Ridge
Open Space Preserve. This property is located west of Skyline Boulevard and along the
east side of Alpine Road. The property consists of scenic open grassland ridges along the
east side of Alpine Road, and includes the final section of the historic Page Mill Trail
which provides a future connection between the preserve and Portola Redwoods State
Park. This transaction included a right of first refusal to acquire the retained 97.5-acre
portion of the Silva property located on the west side of Alpine Road. The District
received a $49,000 grant from the Trails Category of the Habitat Conservation Fund
Program for the future Page Mill Trail connection.
2. Pursue KeyAcquisitions— To protect the scenic rid eline at the District's northern
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boundary, pursue negotiations to acquire critical properties under threat of present or future
development. Pursue acquisition of important properties at District's southern boundary
linking District lands with State park lands including potential connection between the Bay
Area Ridge Trail and Santa Cruz County's Coastal Trail.
PROGRESS:
• The District exercised its right of first refusal to acquire the 284-acre Russian Convent
Lady of Vladimir to create the Mills Creek Open Space Preserve. The right of first
refusal was a term of the 1998 Settlement Agreement between the Convent and the
District. This scenic ridgeline property is located along Skyline Boulevard near the
intersection of State Highway 92 overlooking Half Moon Bay and Burleigh Murray
Ranch State Park. This property includes the headwaters of Mills Creek where summer
steelhead were found. The District received a$150,000 grant from the Rare,
Endangered, Threatened or Fully Protected Species Category of the Habitat Conservation
Fund Program for protection of fish and wildlife habitat.
3. Alternative Acquisition Methods— Obtain Board approval on appropriate options, at
market prices or less, to acquire desirable properties that might be affordable upon the
possible passage of Proposition 12 and available funding which would result in additional
funding for land acquisition. Explore various alternative terms of purchase(installment
purchases, defeasible fee, etc.)to offer advantages and incentives to landowners including
formation of a possible assessment district, as well as cost savings to the District.
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PROGRESS:
• The District elected to retain ownership of the"defeasible fee" acquisitions of the 161.7-
acre General Convention and 19-acre Lee properties as additions to the Cathedral Oaks
area of Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve. The District received"defeasible fee" title to
these properties in 1995 at a time when the District had limited open space acquisition
funding.
4. Grants, Gifts,Bargain Sales and Joint Acquisitions— To augment acquisition funds,
explore new grant opportunities, and focus on acquiring open space lands through bargain
sales, and/or gifts where possible. Pursue the joint acquisition of appropriate properties with
Santa Clara County Parks near the Lexington Reservoir. Work closely with Peninsula Open
Space Trust(POST)to pursue grant opportunities to acquire lands that provide potential
regional and coastal trail connections such as the POST owned Loma Prieta Ranch property,
and lands that round out existing open space preserves such as the POST owned Upper Bear
Creek Redwoods and Guadalupe Land Company properties.
PROGRESS:
• - n r r addition to Monte
The District approved the acquisition of the 40 acre Lobe property PP q
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Bello Open Space Preserve. This property includes Stevens Canyon Road which
transitions into District's Canyon Trail which passes through Upper Stevens Creek
County Park and the preserve. As part of this transaction, the District acquired a right of
first offer to acquire the 10.79-acre property being retained by Mrs. Lobner. The right of
first offer requires the seller to first offer the property for sale to the District before listing
the property for sale on the open real estate market. As part of the acquisition, the
District is pursuing a joint acquisition project with the County of Santa Clara.
• The District received a cost-free transfer of the 9.58-acre San Mateo County Park
property as an addition to Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve. The District
had leased the property from San Mateo County since 1987 to provide a staging area and
itransaction, the District is required to submit
entrance to the preserve. As part of this q
plans for the recreational improvements to this property to the County, and the property
would revert to County ownership if the District no longer uses the property for public
open space.
• The 72.66-acre Benedetti property addition to Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve was
acquired on a bargain sale basis. This property essentially completes the preserve which
is bounded by the City of San Carlos to the east, Edgewood County Park to the south,
San Francisco watershed lands to the north and Interstate 280 to the west.
• In addition to completing two Habitat Conservation Fund grants used to help acquire the
Silva property addition Skyline Ridge Open Space Preserve and the Russian Convent
property creating the Mills Creek Opens Space Preserve, the District successfully applied
for five grants this past year, totaling $11,226,000. The Coastal Conservancy has
approved grants to assist in the acquisition of three key properties from Peninsula Open
Space Trust, including a $4 million grant to acquire the former Guadalupe Land
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Company property as an addition to Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve, a$2 million grant
for the Miramonte Ridge property addition to Mills Creek Open Space Preserve, and $3
million grant for 805-acre former Arlie Land and Cattle Company property. The Wildlife
Conservation Board awarded the District an additional $2 million grant to acquire
POST's Bear Creek Redwoods property, and a $226,000 Habitat Conservation Fund
grant has been initially approved to augment a previously awarded $274,000 grant from
the same program for the acquisition of POST's Lorna Prieta Ranch adjacent to the Forest
of the Nicene Marks State Park.
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2000-2001
Enterprise Subproeram
Objective
To manage all of the District's revenue-producing activities in such a way as to maximize income
from enterprise accounts consistent with Open Space Management policies, incorporating
compatible new programs when possible.
Key Projects
1. Administer Enterprise Accounts—Administer rental accounts, communication and
agricultural leases, consistent with open space management policies, to maintain and enhance
revenue stream through competitive and current rate structure, effective maintenance
programs and communication with tenants.
PROGRESS:
n with he purchase of the ua m
The District added two new Enterprise residences t t Q
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property addition to Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve, and the Silva property addition
to Skyline Ridge Open Space Preserve.
• Staff negotiated with the new lessee, Mountain Union Telecom, who took over
occupancy of the former EROW communication site on Black Mountain.
2. Maintain Rental Structures—Carry out maintenance and improvements to rental houses to
keep buildings and grounds in a safe, sanitary, and attractive condition, and to increase net
rental income. Administer long term and recurring maintenance priorities on rental
properties.
PROGRESS:
• New roofs were installed on the former Bechtel residence at La Honda Creek Open Space
Preserve and on the garage at the former Hosking fourplex at El Corte Madera Open
Space Preserve.
• With the help and expertise of the Skyline field staff, ultra violet (UV) light water
treatment systems were installed on eight(8)enterprise and employee residences in the
Skyline region. The eight installations were at the former Dyer and two McDonald
residences at La Honda Creek open Space Preserve, the former Incerpi and Silva
residences at Skyline Ridge Open Space Preserve, the former Smith and Quam residences
at Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve, and the residence at Monte Bello Open Space
Preserve. All other residences in this region are served by municipal water systems or
already have similar UV systems in place.
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3. Administer Historic Leases— Oversee lease compliance and renovation requirements at
historic Picchetti winery, Thornewood estate, and Fremont Older house. Pursue lease
extension and potential agricultural lease with new tenant as part of the historic Picchetti
winery.
PROGRESS:
• Staff has continued negotiations with the tenant of the historic Picchetti Winery for
consideration of a long-term lease of the historic buildings and a potential agricultural
lease for the areas which were historically planted with vineyards.
• Initial negotiations with the tenants of the historic Fremont Older residence are underway
for a five or ten year lease extension, which would begin at the end of the extended lease
term in August 2002.
4. Identify and Pursue Alternative Lease Arrangements - Investigate long term leasehold
interest agreements and alternative lease arrangements for the appropriate enterprise
properties to enhance net income and minimize maintenance costs to the District in
accordance with Board policy.
PROGRESS:
• The District sold a 40-year fee estate in the 13.9-acre former Bean residence and property
for$450,000 at Long Ridge Open Space Preserve. The District reserved an open space
easement over approximately 13.2-acres of the property, which allows the District to
build and maintain trails, enforce its rules and regulations and manage as public open
space. The residential improvements are restricted to their current size and location. At
the end of the forty(40)year term, the property reverts to District ownership. This
transaction allowed the District to recover more than its original investment in the former
Bean property while maintaining the majority of the property as public open space. The
proceeds from this sale will be used for additional open space acquisitions within the
District's sphere of influence.
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2000-2001
Land Protection Subprogram
Objective
To preserve and protect District open space lands by conducting land acquisition planning
activities to identify acquisition priorities and, once acquired, to further protect these lands by
defending the District's property rights from incompatible and encroaching land use activities.
Key Projects
l. Land Acquisition Planning—To provide comprehensive land acquisition studies and devise
acquisition priorities to guide the acquisition program. Provide site-specific information to
land negotiators to assist them in developing terms and conditions for acquisition projects.
Seek acquisition grant opportunities for high priority projects, including joint acquisition
projects with other public agencies and organizations. Collaborate with Planning and
Operations Programs to facilitate incorporation of land acquisitions into the District
greenbelt.
PROGRESS:
• Extensive pre-acquisition studies were conducted to assist in land negotiations for the
completed and proposed acquisitions of Krone/Bishop property, POST's Bear Creek
Redwoods, Fletscher property, Conner property, Lobner property, and the Portola Valley
conservation easement.
• The District submitted applications for five grants to assist in acquiring the four
properties owned by Peninsula Open Space Trust, including their Bear Creek Redwoods
property, Guadalupe Land Company property, Miramonte Ridge property, and Loma
Prieta Ranch. In addition, staff negotiated with Santa Clara and San Mateo Counties to
clarify the District's portion of the Per Capita Program from the 2000 Parks Bond Act.
• An interdepartmental project team including members from Planning, Operations and
Acquisition Departments has worked together on complex issues associated with
acquiring and managing Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve. Similar project
teams have been working on land use and property ownership issues at Thornewood, and
implementation of the Montgomery Highlands water system at El Sereno Open Space
Preserve (former Bishop/Krone property).
• Assistance was provided to the Legal Department in resolving pending litigation relating
to Arlie Land and Cattle Company, and Krone/Bishop property acquisitions.
2. Land Development Monitoring—To protect public and private open space lands from
negative impacts associated with adjacent land development where there is a relationship to
the District's land interests. Work with local jurisdictions, environmental organizations and
private property owners in trying to protect open space lands through the public review
processes. When appropriate, partner with private property owners in seeking balanced land
use plans that will maximize open space preservation.
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PROGRESS:
• The District has conducted environmental impact studies and worked with appropriate
public agencies to identify and remedy potential impacts from grading projects on the
Hansen Cement (formerly Kaiser Permanente) property, adjacent to Rancho San Antonio
Open Space Preserve, and Lefbolz property, adjacent to Coal Creek Open Space
Preserve. The District continued to monitor and respond to the Town of Los Altos Hills
in an effort to reduce the potential impacts from the Kerns property development next to
the Duveneck Windmill Pasture Area of Rancho San Antonio Open Space Preserve. The
District reconfigured and reduced the size of a proposed utility easement effecting the
Corte Madera Creek area of Windy Hill Open Space Preserve.
• Open space and trail easements are being secured as part of the proposed McCarthy
subdivision project in the Town of Los Gatos. Negotiations with the property owner and
Town staff have yielded a development plan that protects approximately 28 acres
together with regional trail connections contiguous to St. Joseph's Hill Open Space
Preserve. In addition, provisions are being made to screen residential development from
the preserve's trail system.
3. Easement Monitoring—To protect and monitor District lands encumbered by private and
public easements and, conversely, protect District-owned open space easements where
located on private and public lands. When easements are potentially violated, resolutions
will be sought that protect and enhance open space values and minimize legal costs. Seek
compliance with easements or, if necessary, seek modifications to enhance open space
protection. Use proper enforcement techniques if conflict resolution can not be achieved.
PROGRESS:
• The District completed annual monitoring of conservation easements held over privately
and publicly owned lands. The District extended this program to include monitoring of
the newly acquired 23-acre conservation easement over lands along Alpine Road, owned
by the Town of Portola Valley. There are currently 21 volunteers assisting with the
monitoring of these easements.
• As part of Santa Clara County's planning review process, an access easement owned by
POST as part of Upper Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve was found to be
omitted from a proposed subdivision plan. After an in-depth investigation and
discussions with the property owner and County staff, the easement was incorporated into
the proposed project and protected for future District use.
4. Encroachment Reduction —To protect open space preserves from encroachments and
preserve District property rights. Work closely with Planning, Operations and Legal
programs to achieve early identification of potential encroachments and seek resolution by
negotiations and enforcement, if necessary. Use a variety of techniques to resolve
encroachment issues including restoration, mitigation and boundary line adjustments to
maximize open space protection. Develop a procedural manual for enforcement of
encroachments on District land and provide references to development of"Good Neighbor"
brochure.
Page 9
PROGRESS:
• Encroachments that have been successfully resolved including an agreement by a
neighboring property owner to remove graded material from La Honda Creek Open
Space, a$90,000 settlement for trees cut on Purisima Creek Open Space Preserve, an
agreement by a neighboring owner to cease clearing activity at a property bordering
Monte Bello Open Space Preserve. j
• Based on encroachment documentation and preliminary impact studies, legal action has
commenced against a neighboring property owner who graded a road into La Honda
Open Space Preserve and significantly disturbed a sensitive riparian habitat.
• Significant encroachments have been identified at Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space
Preserve on the northeast and southern boundaries. Investigations have been lengthy and
discussions with neighboring property owners are ongoing in an attempt to resolve the
encroachments. Discussions with a neighboring property owner to Fremont Older Open
Space Preserve have resulted in commencement of remediation of grading and
reimbursement of District consultant fees.
• A draft procedural manual for enforcement of encroachments is being developed from
information that has been gathered from other agencies.
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OPERATIONS PROGRAM
Subprograms
A. Field Operations
B. Resource Management
To Implement the
BASIC POLICY OBJECTIVE:
The District follows 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.
General Program Emphasis for 2000-2001
Continue to provide responsible stewardship of all District lands by furnishing those public
safety, maintenance, construction, and resource management activities necessary to protect and
enhance the natural resources and ensure safe and appropriate use of District lands.
Implementation of Board-adopted Resource Management Policies and Trail-use Policies and
Guidelines will continue to be the primary focus of the operations program.
Staff Resources
Assistant General Manager(1/2 time in Operations- 1/2 in Planning)
Operations Manager
Area Superintendents (2)
Support Services Supervisor
Management Analyst
Resource Management Specialist
Supervising Rangers (2)
Maintenance& Construction Supervisors (2)
Administrative Assistant
Rangers(14)
Equipment Mechanic-Operators (2)
Lead Open Space Technicians (2)
Open Space Technicians(8)
Farm Maintenance Worker
10,000 Seasonal Open Space Technician hours
Proposed Additions for 2000-2001
Supervising Rangers -Patrol (2)
Lead Open Space Technicians (2)
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2000-2001
Field Operations
Kgy Projects
1. Operations Program Review— Work with the Ad Hoc Committee to complete writing of
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the Action Plan and present the Action Plan to the full Board. Continue work on high
priority tasks identified in the Action Plan, and incorporate the tasks into the regular
Operations work plans.
PROGRESS:
• The Ad Hoc Committee and staff developed an Action Plan, with a number of meetings
being held with field staff to solicit input and to keep staff appraised on progress. The
Action Plan was presented to the Board in April, 2001.
• High priority items identified in the Action Plan are being implemented.
• An update is scheduled to be presented to the Board in January, 2002.
a. Update of the Operations Manual— Revise the Operations Manual to incorporate the
rdeveloped over man ears into a
memorandums and rocedural standards
variety of
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standardized and centralized format. Develop a system which makes information easily
accessible and makes updating easy.
PROGRESS:
• Staff developed and finalized a process for newly drafted sections of the Operations
Manual that ensures opportunities for field staff comment.
• A format was developed which will allow for easier access to information, and which
will facilitate greater flexibility in updating the manual.
• Six initial sections have been drafted for field staff review. Field staff comments are
being incorporated into the next drafts.
• Fifteen additional sections are in first steps of the review process.
b. Analysis/Upgrade of Current Radio System— Complete the analysis currently being done
of the radio system, and upgrade the system to provide better coverage.
PROGRESS:
• Two new repeater sites have been identified (Purisima Creek OSP and Coyote Peak in
San Jose).
• Federal Communications Commission (FCC) licenses, permits and lease agreements are
in the process of being obtained for the two new repeater sites that were identified.
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• Purchase of radio repeater equipment has been budgeted for, and will be purchased and
installed when licenses are approved.
c. Improvement of the Training Program — Complete the work currently being done by the
training committee to create a list of required and optional training for Operations staff, and
to create a training calendar. Schedule identified training for staff.
PROGRESS
• The Training Committee developed a "Training Matrix," that outlines the recommended
levels of training for both maintenance and patrol staff.
• Ranger staff received legal update and defensive tactics refresher training.
• All new field staff members received Cal OSHA required Bloodborne Pathogen training.
2. Restoration and Mitigation of Off-trail Impacts of Public Use— Close and restore
existing undesignated trails and shortcut trails. Increase efforts to prevent the establishment
of undesignated trails. Mitigate natural resource impacts and improve alignments of existing
trails to minimize erosion. Work to ensure visitor compliance of restoration area closures.
The focus for this fiscal year will be on areas where compliance is poor or high rates of
vandalism occur.
PROGRESS:
• Staff continues to work on closing illegal and undesignated trails to reduce environmental
damage. A number of new illegal trails were constructed by mountain bicyclists during
the previous year, and staff continue to deal with this issue both from a patrol and a
maintenance standpoint.
• Work was completed at El Corte de Madera, St. Joseph's Hill and Teague Hill OSPs to
mitigate off-trail impacts. A recently constructed illegal mountain bike trail in Huddart
Park and Teague Hill Preserve was closed and restored in cooperation with San Mateo
County Parks staff and volunteers. The work had to be done twice due to persistent illegal
trail building.
3. Improvement of the data collection methods in the Operations Program— Utilize staff
expertise, and possibly involve a database consultant, to improve the collection and
dissemination of information about the enforcement activities and incidents occurring on
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District lands. Transition from the current manual system to a computerized database
system.
PROGRESS:
• Staff is drafting a contract with a consultant to continue work on this project, based upon
the Request for Proposals which was sent out last year. Progress on this project was
Page 13
delayed as the Rancho San Antonio County Park Agreement, ranger hiring, and other
projects were given greater priority during the year.
4. Deer Hollow Farm Agreement— Negotiate and implement an agreement with the City of
Mountain View, and other entities, for the long term operation of Deer Hollow Farm.
Implement related agreements with Santa Clara County.
PROGRESS:
• A nine-year agreement is currently being negotiated with the City of Mountain View.
• The new agreement has been designed to work in conjunction with the Rancho San
Antonio County Park Agreement.
5. Interpersonal Communication Skills and Performance Standards Development—
Continue to build on the influencing skills training received by the entire staff since 1996;
f influencing skills of all new employees. Com lete the process of
assist in the training o u gp
developing performance standards for supervisors and begin developing performance
standards for other staff, and continue to provide leadership and supervision training to
supervisors as necessary to facilitate the completion of these tasks and enhance the overall
quality of supervisory skills within the program.
PROGRESS:
• All staff who had previously received Influencing Skills Training received a two- day
refresher training.
• All staff who had not previously attended the Influencing Skills Training received a
three-day training session.
• Operations administrative and supervisory staff, including Lead Open Space Technicians,
attended a six-day "Operations Leadership Academy." The training focussed on
improving leadership and supervisory skills, and on enhancing team work.
Additional Projects
PROGRESS:
• At the direction of the Board, an Agreement was negotiated between Santa Clara County
Parks and the District through which the County paid the District $1,500,000 for the
District's management of Rancho San Antonio County Park for the initial 10-year period.
• Field staff did an extensive amount of work to improve the condition of the facilities and
infrastructure at Rancho San Antonio County Park. Work included: mowing and
restoration of native plants in the meadow area adjacent to the parking lots, fencing to
discourage use of unauthorized trails, and maintenance work on the restrooms and other
facilities.
Page 14
• There was an unusually high number of new hires in the Operations Program, resulting in
the concentration of staff time to this activity. These new hires included:
➢ New Operations Manager
➢ Two new rangers
➢ Five new regular Open Space Technicians- These positions were filled with
current seasonal Open Space Technicians; creating a need to re-hire these
positions.
➢ Four supervisory positions were filled by promotions, resulting inadditional
hiring processes.
• n he required fingerprint checks for all regular and seasonal staff,
The process to conduct t ,
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who have direct contact with minors, was implemented through use of the computerized
LiveScan fingerprint check system.
• Communication between Operations and Planning was improved through, among other
actions, the creation of a joint Operations/Planning Task Force, which is drafting
maintenance and construction standards.
• Staff responded to water quality problems at the Skyline field office, and employee and
enterprise residences, by researching the available technology and installing the District's
first water treatment system.
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2000-2001
Resource Management
Objective
Inventory and analyze the state of District natural resources, including the natural resources of
specific preserves to identify needs and priorities. Utilize volunteers and consultants to expand
District staffs capabilities. Develop procedures and strategic implementation plans to address
the resource management needs of District land. Maintain regular contact and work with, other
agencies, local authorities and specialists in the field, to restore or manage the District's natural
resources.
Key Proiects
1. Grassland Management Implementation Plan— Develop a set of management guidelines
to increase native species diversity and control yellow starthistle and Harding grass. Monitor
treatment areas, conduct a prescribed burn and restore five acres of native grassland;train
staff on management techniques and seed collection; and complete a comprehensive report
summarizing three years of grassland management, including recommendations for long-
term sustainability.
PROGRESS:
• comprehensive report summarizingthree ears of grassland management at Russian
A coin rehe s e
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Ridge Open Space Preserve was completed. A presentation to the Board is scheduled
and will outline the future management recommendations for the preserve.
• No prescribed burn was held this year since the California Department of Forestry, the
lead agency, was unavailable during the optimal times to conduct the burn.
• Ten acres of Harding grass dominated grassland was mowed, spot sprayed with
herbicide, and drill seeded with native seed collected from the site.
• Staff mowed over five acres of Italian thistle and sponsored many seed collecting
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volunteer events.
2. Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve Habitat Restoration— Restore native plant
communities by eradicating non-native plant species. Implement the Pulgas Ridge Open
Space Preserve's restoration plan. Work with staff, California Conservation Corps, and
volunteers to continue treatment of management area one. Investigate potential options to
recycle the larger Eucalyptus trees.
PROGRESS:
• Volunteer and California Conservation Corps hours totaled 550 hours this year. Their
main focus was pulling broom, seeding and plug planting native species in areas where
trees were removed, and hauling and chipping the slash from the removed eucalyptus
trees.
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• The PAL foundation removed thirty larger eucalyptus trees, which were later milled into
useable lumber such as retaining walls and sign-posts for use on District lands.
• Foothills crew spent six of eleven resource management days on the preserve bucking up
eucalyptus for usable firewood, chipping downed material, and removing smaller
eucalyptus and acacia trees.
3. Wild Pig Control Program— Subject to Board approval, enter into a trial control program,
using the services of a contract trapper, to lessen the impact of wild pigs on the South Skyline
Area. Work with staff to identify problem areas and assist contract trapper. Monitor the
progress of other wild pig control efforts in the area.
PROGRESS:
• A contractor was hired to conduct a three-year trial pig control program in the South
Skyline Area. He removed 92 pigs from September through March.
• Staff and interns mapped all rooted areas and sampled designated plots according to
protocol.
• Staff assisted a graduate student from San Jose State in setting up a research project to
study the viability reseeding pig rooted areas with native seed.
Other Projects and Activities
PROGRESS:
• Coordinated with a special volunteer to update database with information provided from
docents, staff, and consultants working on District projects. Introduced database and
checklists to field staff and docent group.
• Helped coordinate many volunteer resource management events including non-native
plant removal, seed collection, native species planting, and restoration site improvement.
• Conducted a staff training on non-native plant identification and treatment methods.
Developed monitoring and treatment guidelines for priority sites identified in the Exotic
Plant Inventory(Kan, 1997).
• Hired a bat ecologist who completed a report on the results of surveys that he conducted
within selected structures on District preserves.
• Hired a resource management intern to assist with projects in the office and field, and
worked with West Valley interns on the resource management component of their
internship.
• Established a District Oak Mortality Committee to provide staff with information and
discuss management and monitoring guidelines.
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OPEN SPACE PLANNING PROGRAM
Subarosrams
A. Advance Planning
B. Current Planning
To Implement the
BASIC POLICY OBJECTIVES:
The District follows 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.
The District works with, and encourages, public and private agencies to preserve, maintain, and
enhance open space.
The District protects and restores the natural diversity and integrity of its resources for their
value to the environment and the public, and provides for the use of the preserves consistent with
resource protection.
General Program Emphasis for 2000-2001
A significant amount of Planning staff time will focus attention on special advance planning
projects, including coordinating and supporting the proposal to expand the District's boundaries
to include the San Mateo County coast. A major two-year project to develop an area-wide
Master Plan for Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve is in progress, as are the review of the
District's Trail Use Policies and Guidelines, and improvement of the District's trail signing
system.
The Planning Program will continue progress on Work Program projects in the areas of
Information Systems(GIS and GPS use and development) and Current Planning, including site
planning, storm-damage repairs, and capital improvements. Significant time will be allocated to
Interdepartmental Support, such as new acquisitions, land protection, and legal projects.
Staff Resources
Re lar full-time positions unless otherwise indicated
i p )
Planning Manager
Senior Planner(1)
Open Space Planner II(2)
Open Space Planner I(2)
Planning Technician (2)
Planning Secretary(1)
Page 18
2000-2001
Current Planning SubnroQram
Objective
Implement policies and regional plans, prepare and implement site-specific plans and capital
improvement projects, and respond to reserve use and management issues. Includes mapping,,
signing, and other ongoing public information services.
Key Projects
1. Design and Implementation of Storm Related Repairs—Continue studies, plans,
permitting, and construction administration for repair or replacement of public improvements
to re-establish patrol and/or trail access.
• Purisima Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve
■ Determine potential reuse or disposition of surplus Grabtown Gulch Bridge. Prepare
alternate project proposal as appropriate(FEMA funded).
PROGRESS:
• Grabtown Gulch Bridge— Staff requested that FEMA approve a change in the project
scope to fund the bridge removal and construction of a bypass trail, as approved by Board
in FY 1999-2000.
• El Corte de Madera Creek Open Space Preserve
■ Virginia Mill Trail— Construct repairs, realignment, and closure/restoration of storm-
damaged portions(FEMA funded), potentially including trail bridge (not FEMA
funded).
■ Methuselah Creek Crossing—Construct trail bridge (potential crew project—NRTFA
funded)
■ Lawrence Creek Bridge—Construct headwalls to stabilize bridge.
PROGRESS:
• Virginia Mill Trail—Planning and Operations Staff worked with a consulting engineer to
identify a new trail alignment, which was presented for Board approval. FEMA approved
changing the project to fund the trail realignment instead of the storm damage repair.
• Methuseleh Creek Crossing—Potential bridge locations were analyzed and a site was
selected. Field Staff constructed an access trail to the future bridge site. Engineering
studies for the bridge footing design were initiated.
• Lawrence Creek Bridge— Staff worked with a consulting engineer to identify repair
options.
• The completion of trail repairs at El Corte de Madera Creek Open Space Preserve was
identified as a key project for FY 2001-02.
Page 19
2. Employee Residence, Bear Creek Redwoods—Conduct feasibility studies, survey and
percolation testing, prepare plans and secure permits to construct a home on-site.
PROGRESS:
• Feasibility studies were completed and it was determined that the location for an
employee residence should be identified as part of a comprehensive Bear Creek
Redwoods Master Plan to be initiated during FY 2001-02.
3. El Corte de Madera Creek Trail Use Plan (Study Area 2) Implementation—Implement
restoration, realignments, and construction of new trails as outlined in the plan(crew project,
NRTFA funded).
PROGRESS:
• Restoration work and trail reconstruction projects were completed with the aid of the
California Youth Authority(CYA) near Gates CM03 and CM04.
4. Preserve Staging Area Planning—Conduct studies, prepare plans, and obtain permits for
construction of new public staging areas with restrooms at Jacques Ridge site, Mt. Umunhum
Area, Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve(joint project with Santa Clara County Parks,
NRTFA funded) and at El Corte de Madera Open Space Preserve.
PROGRESS:
• Staff met with Santa Clara County Department of Parks and Recreation to develop a
project timeline and discuss individual agency responsibilities for completion of the two
respective staging areas.
5. Administrative Office Remodel and Expansion —Coordinate construction contract to
expand Administrative Office workspace into portion of leased space and remodel to
accommodate increased staff.
PROGRESS:
• Phase I of the project was completed, including: relocation of the copy room,
construction of 2 additional offices, 3 workstations, and substantial modifications to the
HVAC system.
• Phase II, which includes the expansion of the Long Ridge Room and the kitchen, and
Phase III, which includes remodeling 1,600 square feet of the previously leased area, are
scheduled for completion in July 2001.
6. Foothills Operations Facilities Study—Work with architectural and/or engineering
consultant, evaluate overall potential Foothills operational facilities needs. Make a
Page 20
determination to retrofit existing shop building to improve structural integrity or design new
shop structure. Complete design work, and apply for permits.
PROGRESS:
• A workshop was held with Foothills Operations staff to gather input on the project scope
II to be included in the Request for Proposals for design and engineering services.
• Staff analyzed and photographed similar shop building projects constructed by other
agencies.
7. Other Current Planning Projects-Key projects in the FY 2000-01 Planning Work
Program include the Kabcenell Permit to Enter, Bear Creek Redwoods Site Preparation, and
Trail Use Policy Implementation.
PROGRESS:
• Kabcenell Permit to Enter— Staff monitored Kabcenell bridge and driveway
construction.
• Bear Creek Redwoods Site Preparation— Staff secured permits, solicited bids, awarded
contract, and completed the demolition of 12 dilapidated structures. Hazardous materials
were inventoried and removed from the site.
• Trail Use Policy Implementation—Planning staff coordinated with the Operations and
Public Affairs Departments to implement updates to District maps and signs.
8. Unanticipated Current Planning Projects—Key projects that were not included in either
the Action Plan or the Work Program.
PROGRESS:
• Lower Windy Trail Realignments—At the direction of the Board, staff initiated a study of
the lower portion of the preserve, incorporating Sausal Trail use issues and the
realignment of trails at the Kabcenell driveway.
• Permits to Enter— Staff processed and monitored Permits to Enter for Spring Ridge LLC
Culvert Repair at Windy Hill, Hanson Cement Road Repairs at Rancho San Antonio, Big
Creek Lumber Timber Harvest at Bear Creek Redwoods, Alpine Road Repairs (Town of
Portola Valley) at Windy Hill, and Aventis Corporation Salt Pond Restoration at
Ravenswood Open Space Preserve.
Page 21
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I
2000-2001
Advance Planning Subprogram
Objective
Assist with the formulation, review, and refinement of policies, plans, and procedures for the
management and development of preserves on a District-wide, regional, or preserve-specific
basis. Work with local agencies on joint planning and implementation projects, to share
information, and to encourage planning decisions that support the preservation of open space and
natural resources and development of enjoyable, manageable regional trail systems.
Key Projects
1. Annexation of the San Mateo County Coast—Administer and coordinate a consultant
contract to accomplish annexation of the District to the San Mateo County Coast, including
preparation of a Service Plan, Fiscal Impact Analysis, Environmental Document, and
management of the annexation process for the action. Provide Planning representation at
staff, consultant, ad hoc committee, and key public or stakeholder meetings and other related
meetings and general public communications.
PROGRESS:
• District staff, Coastal Ad Hoc Committee members, and project consultants attended a
variety of public meetings to share information about the annexation project and to gather
stakeholder input. In November, the Board approved the Draft Service Plan. The Initial
Study and Notice of Preparation of an Environmental Impact Report were prepared and
circulated.
2. Trail Use Policy and Guidelines Review—Review and revise policies based on growing
experience with trail use management and planning and Board concerns about preserving a
tranquil nature experience in the preserves. Includes public input process and review of
updated District-wide trail use designations. Subsequent phases include updated guidelines
for trail use management, trail system planning, and typical trail design and layout standards.
PROGRESS:
• The Board adopted amendments to the District's Trail Use Policies to provide bicycle
access to regional trails such as the Bay S Area Ridge Trail, and to guide future trail use to
meet a target use designation ratio of 60%-65%multi-use trails (including bicycles)to
35%-40% hiking or hiking-and-equestrian trails(excluding bicycles). The Board also
amended the Use and Management Plans for seven preserves to close them to bicycles
effective December 1, 2000. The Ad Hoc Trail Use Committee developed
recommendations to provide bicycle access to the Ridge Trail through Russian Ridge and
Windy Hill Open Space Preserves. In January, the Board president appointed a new Ad
Hoc Trail Use Committee to evaluate the issue of bicycle-only trails in some areas.
3. Sierra Azul Area Plan—Continue and complete the Resource Inventory and Assessment
Phase, focusing on natural and cultural resources and existing roads. Provide resource
Page 22
I
management recommendations and constraints for planning. Initiate Master Planning
process, coordinating staff, consultant, and public input for Board consideration. Initiate
preparation of environmental document.
PROGRESS:
• The consultants completed the field portion of the inventory project and formulated
preliminary resource management recommendations to implement the District's Resource
Management Policies at Sierra Azul. The resource information was compiled and
synthesized into an Administrative Draft report. Master Planning at Sierra Azul is
anticipated to begin in fall 2001.
4. System for Land Use Decisions—Continue long-term project described in FY 1998/1999
Action Plan and Work Program and FY 1999/2000 Work Program to create a framework
system for assessing sites, identifying site preparation and management needs, and for
decisions on opening and improving lands. This project is groundwork for update of the
District's Use and Management Planning Policies. It relates to the Sierra Azul Area Plan,
Trail Use Policy Review, and other major projects, and will examine these projects in the
context of a District-wide overview of significant needs, efforts, and progress. Working
meetings of a staff committee are proposed approximately every two weeks, with the long-
term goal of formulating recommendations to the Board.
PROGRESS:
• The Land Management System Committee was formed with representatives from
Planning, Acquisitions, Resource Management, and Operations. The staff committee
studied the issues and formulated new use and management planning procedures. A
preliminary planning process was outlined, which will be tested as new properties are
acquired. The new planning process will also serve as a checklist for use in the field to
better identify resource planning and management concerns.
5. Trail Signage Improvements—Working with Staff Sign Committee to improve the
District's trail-signing system based on collected input from field staff, volunteers, and Board
members; completed research of materials and approaches used by other agencies; and
confirmation of recommended methods for improving the system. Update the Sign Manual
and Inventory System. Implement changes to signs on site, based on need for replacement.
PROGRESS:
i
I
• Staff completed a pilot project at Russian Ridge and Fremont Older Open Space
Preserves testing the feasibility of converting our trail directional signs from wood to
metal. Based on observations and comments made during the pilot project, staff
improved upon the initial design of the metal signs. The wooden signs are gradually
being phased out and replaced with metal signs on an as-needed basis.
Page 23
i
PUBLIC AFFAIRS PROGRAM
Subprograms
A. General Public Information and Outreach
B. Legislative, Funding, and Organizational Relations
C. Visitor Services
To Implement the
BASIC POLICY OBJECTIVE:
The District educates and makes clearly visible to the public the purposes and actions of
the District, and actively encourages public input and involvement in the District's
decision-making process and other activities.
General Program Emphasis for 2000-2001
Maximize the general public's awareness and understanding of the District, its goals, and
its activities, by reaching all communities served and all other target audiences with
District information through a variety of means and methods; implement the top priorities
of the District's legislative plan; maintain environmental education program and
volunteer involvement, and maximize public participation in District programs; provide
District materials and information to the San Mateo County coastside communities to
ensure their full knowledge and understanding of the District, its programs and activities
as they relate to a proposed annexation of that area.
Staff Resources
(Regular, full-time positions unless otherwise indicated)
Public Affairs Manager
Visitor Services Supervisor
Volunteer Coordinator
Docent Coordinator
Public Affairs Assistant
Interpretive Aide(Nature Center)*
Special Events Aide(District Displays)*
*The interpretive aide and special events aide positions are seasonal and part time.
Page 24
2000-2001
General Public Information and Outreach Subprogram
Objective
To generate additional support among the general public for completing the greenbelt by
increasing the positive perception and awareness of the District's mission, objectives,
accomplishments, programs, and effective management of public lands and financial resources.
Key Projects
1. Children's Activity- Schedule and coordinate a children's activity/event,theme and location
to be determined, to build on the success of and reach the same audience as the former Kid's
Art of Open Space event, to take place no later than March 31, 2001; initial idea is a Junior
Ranger program.
PROGRESS:
• The possibility of a regional Junior Ranger program has been discussed with the City of
Palo Alto and San Mateo County Parks; both agencies have expressed interest.
Development of this program has been delayed until staffing levels allow further
exploration.
• The capacity of the Halloween event, "Creatures of the Night," was doubled to serve
more constituents(202 attendees enjoyed the program this year.)
2. Annual Report—Publish a District 1999-2000 Annual Report by June 1, 2000, followed by
three regular issues of Open Space News.
PROGRESS:
•
Completed. Annual report also sent to coastside residents.
3. Coastal Community Outreach -Provide District materials and information to the San
Mateo County coastside communities to ensure their full knowledge and understanding of the
District, its programs and activities as they relate to a proposed annexation of that area.
PROGRESS:
• Sent annual report and spring newsletter, featuring coastal annexation project.
• In addition to mailing the Annual Report and the spring 2001 issue of Open Space Views
to the coast, the District participated (had a booth) at the San Mateo Coast Earth Fair in
Half Moon Bay in April 2000.
Page 25
2000-2001
Legislative, FundinS, and Organizational Relations Subprogram
Objective
To carry out the high priority elements of the District's legislative plan and to inform other
public agencies and private organizations about the District's activities and goals.
Key Projects
1. Coastal Preservation Effort-Work with the general manager and the Coastal Ad Hoc
Committee of the Board toward the proposed District expansion to the San Mateo County
coast, and all related tasks and activities to include possible future funding measures.
PROGRESS:
• In addition to staff participation in preparation of the annexation application to LAFCO,
P P P P
staff has fostered community relations with coastside community members; responded to
public information requests; ensured that key District publications were also sent to the
coastside; developed a positive joint press release with MidCoast Community Council
and Farm Bureau representatives; worked in partnership with farmers on the children's
1workshops.
t and after coasts
Halloween program; and socialized prior o
2. Funding for Mount Umunhum Clean Up—Work with legislators to develop and
implement a strategy to obtain Federal funding toward clean up of the former Almaden Air
Force Station at Mount Umunhum, in the Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve.
PROGRESS:
• Three calls were made to John Hess of Senator Boxer's office to inform the Senator and
her COS of the need for a clean-up; to invite her to the site for a tour, and to re-schedule a
meeting to enlist her experienced assistance. Staff has discerned that it will be necessary
to create more public interest (and pressure)to garner the attention of elected officials to
the clean-up effort.
• A key San Jose Mercury News reporter was provided a tour and days of research
assistance, for the development of a news feature to draw attention to the need for a
clean-up; the article has not yet appeared.
• Congressional member George Miller has agreed to help guide District staff,
Representative Honda, or others through the necessary political channels.
• Meanwhile, staff is developing a"Friends of Mt. Umunhum" contact list for near-future
organizing efforts.
Page 26
3. Other Lobbying Efforts -Work with the general manager and the District's Sacramento
lobbyist to preserve current and future state funding for the District, and to carry out elements
of the District's legislative plan.
PROGRESS:
o Lobbied elected officials via phone calls, faxes, and letters for federal Land and Water
Conservation/CARA funding. Both have been funded.
• Prepared 2001-2002 Legislative Plan.
• Performed preparatory work on Transportation Fund for Clean Water(including meeting
with Senator Sher).
• Monitoring Little Hoover Commission work to determine potential impacts on special
districts.
• Identified sister agency partner for next year's lobbying efforts re: public transportation
to open space/parks.
4. Sponsor Legislation -Work with the District's legislative advocate and with legislators and
their staffs to sponsor high-priority legislation from the District's Legislative Plan.
PROGRESS:
• The District is sponsoring AB 953 (Simitian), which has become a 2002 bill.
5. Regional Funding-Work with the Bay Area Open Space Council, the Planning and
Conservation League, and others to develop and/or support potential regional, State, or other
alternative funding mechanisms.
PROGRESS:
• The District has identified and is playing a key role in the advocacy of a funding
opportunity through its work on the Transportation Fund for Clean Water(AB 104).
Page 27
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2000-2001
Visitor Services Subprogram
Objective
To encourage active public participation in the maintenance, restoration, and protection of the
District's natural resources, and provide cultural, historical, and environmental education
opportunities to the public.
Key Projects
1. Interpretive Program -Develop a master plan that defines the District's interpretive
program objectives, including historical interpretation at Picchetti Ranch, using interpretation
as a tool to address resource management issues, and identifying the goals of the docent
program.
PROGRESS:
• Due to staff vacancies, this project was not completed.
2. Docent Recruitment-Design single-subject "short courses" for prospective volunteers that
want to participate in the docent program, but have time restrictions or are only interested in
a particular subject. These volunteers would be limited to leading activities related to the
short courses they have completed. The short-course concept is long-range, beginning with
earthquake geology in Fiscal Year 2000-2001.
PROGRESS:
• A West Valley College student began development of an earthquake program—but the
project was interrupted when he was hired by the District for another project. Progress
will continue, pending hire of vacant positions.
3. Environmental Education -Focus on recruiting and training additional outdoor education
docents to meet the increasing demand for field trips. Provide ongoing training opportunities
for current outdoor education docents. Investigate methods of providing disadvantaged
school classes with transportation to field trips at Skyline Ridge.
PROGRESS:
• Fall and Winter trainings added 6 new Outdoor Education Docents(OEDs)to the
program. Two additional enrichment trainings were arranged for current OEDs: "Signs of
Wildlife," with Tom Lindsay, Director of Exhibits from the San Jose Children's
Discovery Museum; and "Aquatic Ecology," with David Renche, East Bay Park
Naturalist.
4. Daniels Nature Center-Work with exhibit designer to develop seasonal displays for the
exterior exhibit case. Continue to open the nature center to the public on weekends mid-
Page 28
March to mid-November. Change the operating hours to better accommodate visitor use
patterns.
PROGRESS:
• The Daniels Nature Center was open to the public, on weekends and holidays, from mid-
March through mid-November for a total of 72 days during the 2000/2001 fiscal year.
With an average of 75 visitors per day, approximately 5,400 people visited the Center this
fiscal year.
• The new exhibits project has been put on hold until staffing levels allow further
exploration of this program.
• The Nature Center hours were changed from 11:00 a.m. —4:00 p.m. to 12:00 p.m. —5:00
p.m., to better accommodate visitor use patterns. This schedule proved valuable and will
be continued this year.
I �
Page 29
ADMINISTRATION PROGRAM
Subprograms
A. Administration/Human Resources Subprogram
B. Legal Services Subprogram
To Implement the
BASIC POLICY OBJECTIVE:
The staff administers the affairs of the District on behalf of the public so as to maximize
accomplishment of the goals and objectives of the District within existing financial and other
constraints.
General Program Emphasis for 2000-2001
Guide and support the District-wide effort to develop and improve leadership, supervisory, and
interpersonal communication skills among all staff in order to enhance the District's work
environment. Foster staff in carrying out the District's short and long-term goals and
participation
objectives. Maintain the Districts viability as an open space acquisition and management agency.
Work toward potential expansion of the District's boundaries to include coastal lands in San
Mateo County.
Staff Resources
(Regular, full-time positions unless otherwise indicated)
General Manager
General Counsel(two-thirds time)
Controller(one-quarter time)
Administration/Human Resources Manager/District Clerk
Attorney
Human Resources Management Specialist
Senior Administrative Assistant/Office Manager
Accounting Specialist
Administrative Assistant(60%time)
Receptionist/Administrative Clerk
Network Specialist (50%time)
Page 30
2000-2001
Administration/Human Resources Subprogram
Objective:
To provide overall coordination, direction, and administrative foundation for all District activities
so as to maximize the accomplishment of the Board's policies and directives, to implement the
Action Plan, and to maintain the District's viability as an open space acquisition and management
agency.
Key Projects
1. District Funding— Work to preserve current and future state funding for the District.
Continue to provide multi-year information/scenarios on District's long-term finances,
including bonded indebtedness and cash flow, and to address the need to rely on the
availability of grant funds for major development projects. Pursue alternate sources of secure
additional funding to meet acquisition and open space management needs.
PROGRESS:
• With the booming economy in California and surpluses in the State budget, the District's
funding sources remained secure. In fact, Assemblyman Ted Lempert was able to obtain a
$300,000 state budget line item for implementation of the"Riding and Hiking" easement
program which will be utilized for staging and trail construction at E1 Corte de Madera
Creek and La Honda Creek Open Space Preserves.
• The Administration and Budget Committee, as well as the full Board, was presented with
a short-term and long-term cash flow analysis by District Controller, M. Foster. Because
of the District's strong cash position, no additional borrowing was recommended this
fiscal year.
• The Proposition 12 (State Park Bond Act)per capita funds allocations were resolved with
Santa Clara and San Mateo Counties. As a result, the District is to receive approximately
$3.6 million in grant funds from this source this next fiscal year.
2. Human Resources — Work with all program areas to enhance the overall quality and
effectiveness of the District's work environment by developing and improving leadership,
supervisory, and interpersonal communication skills. Carry out District's personnel and labor
relations functions. Enhance organizational effectiveness and morale through increased
communications, staff meetings, training seminars, and team building activities. As a follow-
up to the Operations Program Review, conduct a District-wide morale assessment to
determine impacts of changes made so far, and to identify potential strategies to enhance
morale.
Page 31
PROGRESS:
• Working with staff feedback on the original draft, a joint committee of staff and
management finalized the Workplace Enhancement Plan. The plan will be used as a guide
to improve communications and leadership, and enhance the work environment.
• Regular meetings between managers and bargaining representatives unit were
implemented this year. The meetings have created a productive forum addressing a wide
variety of issues.
• include d long appreciation
The staff recognition event was expanded this past year to c ude a ay g
of the staff's work. Regular meeting schedules have been implemented for all employees
to enhance staff communications and promote team building. Operations department
supervisors and three managers attended a six-day leadership training academy tailored to
District needs.
• Work is also underway on a number of other staff-related programs to enhance the
organization. Future surveys of staff will be conducted to determine the effectiveness of
these programs.
3. Elections—Coordinate necessary election services and activities for Wards 3, 4 and 7.
PROGRESS:
• This year Santa Clara County and San Mateo County coordinated the election process for
the District. The incumbents for Wards 4 (D. Little) and 7 (K. Nitz)were unopposed and
retained their seats. The incumbent for Ward 3 (J. Cyr) had one opponent and was re-
elected to the Board of Directors.
4. Coastal Expansion— Coordinate the efforts of the Board, consultants, and staff to work
toward completion of the annexation of the coastal lands in San Mateo County.
PROGRESS:
• The consultants, with staff guidance and supervision, completed the Draft Service Plan,
which was presented to the public in several meetings, both on the coast and at a District
Board meeting. The Board of Directors approved the Draft Service Plan on November
28, 2000, which is the project description for proposal of preparation of the
Environmental Impact Report (EIR).
Page 32
• The consultants have been preparing the Draft Environmental Impact Report (DEIR) and
the Fiscal Study which will be combined with the Service Plan to complete the District's
application to the San Mateo Local Agency Formation Commission(LAFCO)for the
annexation procedure. The DEIR will be the subject of additional public meetings this Fall
with the expectation that the application would be submitted to LAFCO early next
calendar year.
I
Page 33
2000-2001
Legal Services Subprogram
i
Objective
To provide timely legal services to the Board and to all District Programs to assist in formulating
and implementing District policies and projects in accordance with law.
Key Projects
1. Real Property— Provide legal advice concerning District real property, including
acquisition, disposition, title and encroachment issues, easement issues, permits to enter
District land, and Preserve maintenance issues. Anticipated major projects: LGCC v.
MROSD (litigation concerning acquisition of Bear Creek Redwoods OSP); appellate
proceedings Obermayer v. MROSD (Long Ridge OSP); trial in Richard v. MROSD
(Thornewood OSP); revision of Pichetti Winery lease (Montebello OSP).
PROGRESS:
• LGGC v. MROSD: The District was successful in being dismissed from this litigation
when the court granted the District's demurrer.
• Obermayer v. MROSD: The District won on appeal and the matter is concluded.
• Richard v. MROSD: The matter went to trial and the District received a favorable
judgment.
• Picchetti Winery Lease: The Acquisition Department is continuing negotiations with the
tenant and anticipates this project to be conducted in fiscal year 2001-2002.
2. Risk Management— Process and monitor current claims and litigation against the District;
refine risk management procedures; represent District's interests in insurance coverage
matters; provide oversight of matters handled by outside counsel. Anticipated major projects:
Trial in Moshell v. MROSD (drainage damage claims at Teague Hill OSP); Picha v. MROSD
(appeal of civil rights claim alleged as result of arrest).
PROGRESS:
• Moshell v. MROSD: The matter went to trial and the plaintiff won a substantial damage
award. However, the judgment was covered by the District's general liability insurance
policy.
Page 34
• Picha v. MROSD: The District won on appeal before the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals
and the matter is concluded.
3. Human Resources— Assist in carrying out labor relations functions; serve as chief
negotiator on District's bargaining team; negotiate successor agreement to current
Memorandum of Agreement with Local 715; provide legal advice on personnel matters.
PROGRESS:
• A three year Memorandum of Agreement was successfully negotiated with Local 715.
4. Coastal Expansion— Provide advice concerning legal requirements applicable to coastal
annexation related issues in the LAFCO and CEQA process; develop mechanisms to adopt
eminent domain policy in secure manner.
PROGRESS:
• An Agreement was reached between the District and LAFCO on an effective approach to
make the District's"no eminent domain policy" secure and permanent. Advice was
provided to the departments throughout this fiscal year concerning legal requirements for
the Coastal expansion project.
Page 35
Regional Open S ice
-------------------
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
R-01-65
Meeting 01-12
May 23,2001
AGENDA ITEM 3
AGENDA ITEM
Authorization to Utilize Design Concepts for Graphic De ' and rbor Printing Service, Selected Via
Competitive Bids,Until Formal Requests for Proposal ield New Contract Proposals for Your
Approval
GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMEND
Authorize the General Manager to contract with Design Concepts to perform graphic design work not to
exceed$14,000 and Harbor Printing to complete printing projects not to exceed$50,000,until staff
evaluates responses to formal Requests for Proposals and returns to you for contracting approval.
DISCUSSION
At your meeting on September 27,2000,you authorized staff to contract with Harbor Printing to perform
brochure,map,and newsletter printing services within the 2000-2001 fiscal year budget(see Report
R-00-124). Your approval of staff's recommendation to contract with Harbor Printing was based upon
competitive bids demonstrating cost-effectiveness for District project specifications.
Meanwhile,printing services continue to be needed to produce District publications on a timely basis for
fiscal year 2001-2002. Staff has obtained new competitive bids for its largest printing projects from
three printers able to meet District specifications. Among those printers,Harbor Printing again
submitted the lowest bid. Since Harbor Printing's service has been completely satisfactory,and its cost
very competitive, staff recommends you approve continued use of Harbor Printing while formal
Requests for Proposals are announced, solicited, and evaluated. At that time staff will return to you with
a recommended printer selected through this process.
Graphic design services also continue to be needed to produce District publications. Staff has surveyed
several available graphic design consultants able to meet District specifications and has determined that
Design Concepts provides very cost-effective delivery of these services. In fact,Design Concepts rates
are a superlative value,and service has been reliable and expedient.
Until new proposals have been formally solicited and evaluated, it is recommended that you authorize
the use of these companies and the expenditure of budgeted funds totaling no more than $14,000 for
Design Concepts and $50,000 for Harbor Printing to perform necessary design and printing work.
Prepared by:
Stephanie Jensen, Public Affairs Manager
Contact person:
Same as above
330 Distel Circle - Los Altos, CA 94022-1404 • Phone:650-691-1200
Fax:650-691-0485 • E-mail:mrosd@openspace.org •Web site:www.openspace.org Aitrl tg--.'
Board of Directors:Pete Siemens,Mary C. Davey,Jed Cyr, Deane Little,Nonette Hanko,Larry Hassett,Kenneth C.Nitz -General Manager:L.Craig Britton
Regional Open ice
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
R-01-64
Meeting 01-12
May 23, 2001
AGENDA ITEM 4
AGENDA ITEM
Agreement with California Department of Forestry and re Protection to Conduct a
Prescribed Burn at Russian Ridge Open Space Presery
GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMENDAT
Authorize the General Manager to enter into an agreement with the California Department of
Forestry and Fire Protection (CDF) to conduct a prescribed burn consistent with this report at
Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve as an ongoing part of the Grassland Management
Implementation Plan.
DISCUSSION
At your regular meeting on July 26, 2000, you authorized the hiring of Rana Creek Habitat
Restoration to finalize the Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve three-year grassland management
project, and to continue the restoration of 20 acres (see Report R-00-101). The results of this
project will be presented to you at your regular meeting on June 27, 2001. One finding was that
prescribed burning, when compared with other management techniques, is the most cost-
effective per acre and produces the greatest increase in native plant cover and diversity. For this
reason it is recommended that prescribed burning continue to be used as a tool to manage
grassland habitat at Russian Ridge.
District staff has worked with Bruce Beck from CDF in preparing the prescribed bum plan for
Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve. Staff has a copy of the initial bum plan and is waiting for
the final plan, complete with endorsements from California Department of Fish and Game; US
Fish and Wildlife Service; Sonoma State, Department of Anthropology; and State Water
Resources Control Board. It is not anticipated that the final plan will have any significant
changes from the initial bum plan. The final plan is scheduled to be completed and ready for
District approval by the end of May. The prescribed bum, however, is planned for July in order
to meet the District's vegetation management objectives.
Fire suppression and the absence of grazing has allowed non-native grasses to form a thick,
mulch layer that dominates many areas of Russian Ridge's grassland habitat. The non-native
species hinder the seedling emergence and survival of native plants,thus decreasing the diversity
of native species over time. Appropriately timed fire accomplishes the following objectives:
330 Distel Circle * Los Altos,CA 94022-1404 * Phone:650-691-1200
Fax:650-691-0485 - E-mail:mrosd@openspace.org #Web site:www.openspace.org
Board of Directors:Pete Siemens,Mary C. Davey,Jed Cyr,Deane Little, Nonette Hanko,Larry Hassett,Kenneth C.Nitz -General Manager:L.Craig Britton
R-01-64 Page 2
1) Removes the dense mulch layer produced by non-native, annual grasses, encouraging the
regeneration of native species such as Johnny jump-ups (Viola pedunculata), lupine
species (Lupinus spp.), and California poppy (Eschscholzia californica);
2) Eliminates the year's seed production of yellow starthistle (Centaurea solstitalis), and
reduces its seed bank;
3) Prepares the site for the planting of native species and increases the success of controlling
harding grass (Phalaris aquatica); and
4) Enhances the tillering and fragmentation of native grasses such as purple needle grass
(Nassella pulchra), blue wild rye (Elymus glaucus), and California brome (Bromus
carinatus).
Summer burns are scheduled to coincide with the maturation of yellow starthistle (after seed set,
yet before the seed heads have shattered), thus effectively reducing the seedbank for that year. If
the District's goal is long-lasting control of yellow starthistle and greater native species diversity,
then management of the preserve will need to include consecutive prescribed burns combined
with other control methods such as mowing, selective herbicide treatment, and seeding of native
species in selected areas. Additional opportunities provided by a prescribed burn at Russian
Ridge include:
1) Reintroduction of fire to a grassland ecosystem requiring fire;
2) Reduction of fire hazard -the ridgetop grassland can function as a firebreak to stop fires
coming up from the slopes;
3) Provision of interagency hands-on training; and
4) Development of a model program to help educate the public.
Project Description
The prescribed burn would be conducted under CDF's Vegetation Management Program. By
providing trained staff as in-kind labor and equipment, the District will offset its costs. CDF will
be the lead agency for the project and has prepared the burn plan and CEQA compliance
documents. It will also obtain all permits, provide personnel and equipment to conduct the
burn, and assume liability for the burn. The District will help prepare the site, provide staff to
help conduct and monitor the burn, and arrange traffic control along Skyline Boulevard while
the burn is in progress.
The proposed burn, consistent with the attached map, will be contained by existing roads, disc
lines and trails, and will not exceed 131 acres. All trees and sensitive areas will be protected
from any impact during the burn. District staff proposes burning the northeast part of the
preserve that is bordered on the northeast by the disc line and Skyline Boulevard, and on the
southwest by Alder Springs Trail, which also functions as a patrol road(see attached map).
Notification
Neighbors of the Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve have been advised of this agenda item and
will be notified of the proposed dates of the prescribed burn. In addition,the Public Affairs
Program will coordinate with CDF to ensure that the burn is well publicized.
R-01-64 Page 3
CEQA CoMpliance
The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CDF) will act as the lead agency
for this project and will prepare the CEQA documentation. The District will act as the
Responsible Agency, reviewing and commenting on the documentation.
Prepared by:
Jodi Isaacs, Resource Management Specialist
Contact person:
Same as above
Russian RIdge Open Spcice - Preserve
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Regional Open c ice
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
R-01-62
Meeting 01-12
May 23, 2001
AGENDA ITEM 5
AGENDA ITEM
Agreement with Santa Clara County Fire Department to Con a Prescribed Burn on the Rancho de
Guadalupe Area of Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve
GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMENDA-
1. Determine that the recommended actions as set out in this report are categorically exempt under
the California Environmental Quality Act(CEQA).
2. Authorize the General Manager to execute the attached Permit to Enter for the purpose of allowing
the Santa Clara County Fire Department to conduct a controlled burn, for training purposes,on the
Rancho de Guadalupe area of Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve.
BACKGROUND
The District has received a request from the Santa Clara County Fire Department to conduct a controlled
burn, for training purposes, on a portion of the former Rancho de Guadalupe property in Sierra Azul Open
Space Preserve. The request is to burn up to nine acres of grassland adjacent to the Cherry Springs
Reservoir (see Exhibit 1 of the attached Permit to Enter). This project would be a repetition of the
controlled burn which was conducted as part of "Project Wildfire" in May 1997(see Report R-97-73), and
also in May 1999(see Report R-99-68).
DISCUSSION
The project will involve burning up to nine acres of grassland and sparse chaparral. This particular site
was chosen because the gentle slope,combined with light fuels, is appropriate for conducting a safe burn,
with minimal erosion potential. The site is easily accessible and water is readily available. In addition,the
site is remote and closed to the public, so the project will not interfere with recreational activities.
The dates of June 7 and June 14, 2001 are currently under consideration for conducting the burn. These
dates work well for staff and provide an opportunity to train new firefighters who are currently attending
the Joint Agency Fire Academy. Firefighters from this academy are from many of the jurisdictions which
provide fire services to the District. In addition, Santa Clara County Fire Department will be on-site prior
to these dates to prepare for the burn,which will involve some vegetation clearing and a small amount of
burning around the edge of the site(black-lining)to protect trees and to provide further protection against
escape of the fire.
330 Distel Circle • Los Altos,CA 94022-1404 • Phone:650-691-1200
Fax:650-691-0485 • E-mail:mrosd@openspace.org e Web site:www.openspace.org
Board of Directors:Pete Siemens,Mary C.Davey,Jed Cyr,Deane Little, Nonette Hanko,Larry Hassett,Kenneth C.Nitz -General Manager:L.Craig Britton
R-01-62 Page 2
Santa Clara County Fire Department will be the lead agency in conducting the exercise. It will be
responsible for controlling site access,conducting the burn, providing logistical support, and complying
with Bay Area Air Quality Management District regulations. The California Department of Forestry and
Fire Protection(CDF)may also participate in the training.
The project will provide the following benefits for the District:
1. Wildland Fire and Incident Command System training for District and County Fire Department
staff.
2. Improved working relationship with Santa Clara County Fire Department.
3. Reduction of fuel load in the burn area and subsequent reduction in the possibility of a wildland
fire.
4. Enhancement of native vegetation and removal of exotic vegetation through the re-introduction of
naturally occurring fire, under controlled conditions.
5. Research opportunities for the District's Resource Management Specialist on the effect of
wildland fire on vegetation management.
RESOURCE MANAGEMENT ISSUES
To evaluate the spectrum of environmental concerns, a checklist developed by CDF for vegetation
management burns was used. The results of the checklist show no significant impacts on water resources,
soil stability, vegetation,habitat, wildlife, air quality, or visual aesthetics.
The vegetation community of the burn area is approximately 85% non-native annual and perennial
grassland. A burn in this area will enhance native vegetation diversity by reducing non-native competitive
species and thatch accumulation. Monitoring has been conducted for burns held in this area in previous
years to assess the changes in species composition and distribution caused by the burns. The 1997 and
1999 burns resulted in reduced thatch coverage, which benefited native grasses.
The impact on wildlife of a grassland burn will be minimal due to the seasonal timing and the low intensity
of the burn. No rare or endangered species inhabit the burn area. Horned lizards have been sighted on the
upper chaparral slopes of the preserve, but not in the burn area.
Resource Protection Issues
To ensure adequate protection of the area, staff has placed certain constraints on the project, which are
specified in the attached Permit to Enter. Among the conditions are the following:
■ Santa Clara County Fire Department must fully restore any compacted areas to their pre-event
condition.
■ District staff will be on-site for the duration of the event.
■ Santa Clara County Fire Department must minimize off-road driving of vehicles.
R-01-62 Page 3
i
Archeological Issues
Prior to the 1997 Project Wildfire exercise,the Silicon Valley Defense Space Consortium paid for an
archaeological review of the burn area. The review showed that there were no significant archeological
resources in the area.
CEQA COMPLIANCE
Project Description
The project consists of burning up to nine acres of grassland and sparse chaparral for the purpose of
training and study.
CEQA Determination
Staff concludes that this project will not have a significant effect on the environment. It is categorically
exempt from CEQA(the California Environmental Quality Act)under Sections 15304 and 15306 of the
CEQA Guidelines as follows:
Section 15304 allows activities resulting in minor alterations to land such as grading, landscaping,filling
of earth,trenching, and backfilling. The proposed controlled burn is similar to these activities in that it is
only a temporary alteration to the land. In comparison to other agencies who regularly conduct controlled
burns of areas greater than 50 acres,the proposed nine-acre burn is considered small,resulting in little
impact to the land. The vegetation is a grassland community. No trees will be removed and the reduction
of thatch and competitive species from the area will result in habitat improvements.
Further exemption is covered under Section 1.5306, which allows for"basic data collection,research,
experimental management,and resource evaluation activities." This project will increase the District's
knowledge of the role of fire in vegetation management.
PUBLIC NOTIFICATION
Twenty-four neighbors, who live adjacent to the Rancho de Guadalupe area of Sierra Azul Open Space
Preserve, have been mailed copies of this Board Report. A letter will also be mailed to these adjacent
neighbors giving further details of the project when these matters have been finalized.
Prepared by:
Gordon Baillie, Management Analyst
Jodi Isaacs, Resource Management Specialist
Graphics: Dennis Dart, Planning Technician
Contact Person:
Gordon Baillie,Management Analyst
Page 1
PERMIT TO ENTER
This Permit to Enter is by and between the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, a
California public District (hereinafter "MROSD"), and Santa Clara County Fire Department, a
California public Fire Protection District (hereinafter "COUNTY FIRE").
The parties hereby agree as follows:
1.0 Property
MROSD grants COUNTY FIRE permission to enter the portion of Sierra Azul Open Space
Preserve (hereinafter the "Property") located in unincorporated Santa Clara County, as shown on
the attached map (Exhibit 1). Access to the Property will be via Hicks and Pheasant Roads.
2.0 Purpose
This Permit to Enter is for the purpose of conducting a wildland prescribed burn in the areas
shown on the attached map (Exhibit 1) as referenced in the Incident Action Plan (hereinafter
"Project").
3.0 Activity Conditions
The activity shall be subject to the following conditions:
1. COUNTY FIRE will be responsible for obtaining all necessary government permits for the
Project, including meeting the requirements set forth by the Bay Area Regional Air Quality
Management District.
2. COUNTY FIRE will write an Incident Action Plan (hereinafter the "Plan,") for the Project
and will manage the Project in accordance with the Plan. The Plan must be agreed upon
by MROSD at least two weeks in advance of the Project. The Plan will include a
minimum of the following elements:
a. Map of the planned burn site and planned access routes.
b. Plans for sanitation and other support services, such as food, etc.
c. Identification and protection of sensitive resource sites.
d. Number and type of fire apparatus assigned to the burn, and planned staging areas for
additional staffing and equipment.
e. Plan for mutual aid in case the fire escapes containment lines.
f. Overview of command and control structure, including communications plan.
g. Plan for medical emergencies, including an identified helicopter landing zone.
h. Plan for post-fire monitoring and cleanup.
ICI
Page 2
3. COUNTY FIRE will ensure that the Project is conducted under standard Incident
Command procedures, including the provision for a Safety Officer, and will be responsible
for the overall safe operation of the Project.
4. COUNTY FIRE will ensure that MROSD staff has an opportunity to use the Project as a
training opportunity by involving MROSD staff in the fire fighting and in the planning and
execution of the Project. COUNTY FIRE will allow at least one MROSD staff member,
of supervisor or higher level, to be present at the command post at all times. Other
MROSD staff or agents may be present as observers. Participation by MROSD staff for
training purposes shall in no way limit or affect the Indemnification and Release of
Liability provisions set out in Section 6.0 of this permit to Enter.
5. COUNTY FIRE will limit off-road driving by fire apparatus to minimize soil compaction.
6. COUNTY FIRE will provide MROSD with a schedule of operations and keep MROSD
informed of any changes in the schedule.
7. COUNTY FIRE will be responsible for clean up of the burn site and any staging and transit
areas that are on MROSD property.
8. COUNTY FIRE will patrol the burn site at least twice on each evening after completing a
day's burning. Any signs of re-ignition will be immediately extinguished and any re-
ignitions will be reported to MROSD.
9. COUNTY FIRE will be responsible for discing or otherwise restoring the staging area and
any other areas impacted by the exercise. MROSD shall make the final determination as
to the completeness of the restoration and may require additional work be done to ensure
full restoration of the area.
10. In no event shall equipment or materials be left unattended on MROSD property.
11. MROSD shall provide COUNTY FIRE with lock combinations or keys for access to any
necessary gates.
12. COUNTY FIRE shall be the lead agency for fire suppression and control for the duration
of the Project.
13. A copy of this permit shall be maintained on site at all times while the Project is taking
place.
14.MROSD will be responsible for informing neighboring residents and adjacent land owners
of any site-preparation activities which involve burning (i.e. black-lining).
I
Page 3
15.In the event that COUNTY FIRE produces for distribution a news release or other type of
media advisory pursuant to the Project, MROSD will be provided with a draft of the
release for review prior to distribution and will be given the opportunity to include in that
document a typical MROSD descriptive paragraph. If COUNTY FIRE engages in any
other publicity activity pursuant to the Project, MROSD shall be named as a cooperating
agency.
16.In the event that MROSD produces for distribution a news release or other type of media
advisory pursuant to the Project, COUNTY FIRE will be provided with a draft of the
release for review prior to distribution and will be given the opportunity to include in that
document a descriptive paragraph. If MROSD engages in any other publicity activity
pursuant to the Project, COUNTY FIRE shall be named as a cooperating agency.
17. COUNTY FIRE will continue to work with MROSD to provide additional training
opportunities (such as HazMat training) for MROSD staff at mutually acceptable dates and
locations.
4.0 Term
Access to the site for the purposes of this permit is limited to times and dates agreed upon (in
writing) between MROSD and COUNTY FIRE. In the event that the Project must be
rescheduled, this permit will still be valid as long as MROSD has written notification of the
new dates and MROSD has agreed in writing to the new date(s). In order to do site
preparation, COUNTY FIRE may also access the site on dates which are mutually agreed
upon. In any event, this permit expires on September 31, 2001.
5.0 Notice
Any notice or notices required or permitted to be given pursuant to this license may be
personally served on the other party by the party giving such notice, or may be served by U.S.
mail to the following address:
MROSD: L. Craig Britton, General Manager
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
330 Distel Circle
Los Altos, CA 94022
(650) 691-1200
(650) 691-0485 (FAX)
copy to: John Escobar, Assistant General Manager
Page 4
COUNTY FIRE: Benjamin F. Lopes III
Santa Clara County Fire Department
14700 Winchester Blvd.
Los Gatos, CA 95032-1818
(408) 378-4010
(408) 378-4079 (FAX)
6.0 Indemnification and Release of Liability
COUNTY FIRE agrees that the use of equipment and tools on the property of MROSD shall
be effected with all reasonable diligence and precautions to avoid damage to the land, property,
or personnel of MROSD or to the public.
COUNTY FIRE hereby waives all claims and recourse against MROSD, including the right of
contribution for loss or damage to property, and releases, under this Permit to Enter, MROSD
from any liability related to or in any way connected to COUNTY FIRE's activities or
COUNTY FIRE's use of the Project site, premises, or facilities.
COUNTY FIRE agrees to indemnify, hold harmless, defend and protect MROSD, its officers,
officials, directors, agents, and employees from any and all claims, losses, damages, demands,
liabilities, suits, costs, expenses (including all reasonable attorney's fees), penalties,
judgements, or obligations whatsoever in connection with any injury, death, or damage to any
person or property or pecuniary or monetary loss that results from, arises out of, or in any way
relates to the activities of COUNTY FIRE, under this permit to enter, both on and off the
Project site.
COUNTY FIRE and its agents shall have sole responsibility for the safeguard of their
equipment, property, and personnel (i.e., employees, agents officers and guests) from any and
all injury, death, or damage.
7.0 Insurance
Throughout the term of this agreement, COUNTY FIRE, at its sole cost and expense, shall
maintain in full force and effect comprehensive automobile and general liability insurance
covering bodily and personal injury and property damage arising out of the COUNTY FIRE's
activities pursuant to this Permit to Enter. Limits shall be not less than $5,000,000 per
occurrence for bodily injury and $500,000 per occurrence for property damage. This permit is
not valid without COUNTY FIRE's insurance in effect as shown on the attached Certificate of
Insurance (Exhibit 2), which is made a part of this permit. The policy shall name MROSD as
an additional insured.
Page 5
Throughout the term of this agreement, COUNTY FIRE, at its sole cost and expense, shall
maintain in full force and effect a policy of Worker's Compensation Insurance covering all its
employees as required by law. Each agency is responsible for the Workers Compensation
coverage for their own employees, volunteers and agents.
Such insurance policies shall not be cancelled or materially changed without thirty (30) days'
advance written notice to MROSD at the address shown under NOTICES.
These insurance requirements may be met by membership in a California Government
insurance pool. Proof of such coverage and membership must be provided to MROSD.
8.0 Cancellation
This Permit To Enter shall be cancelable by MROSD upon 24 hours notice to COUNTY
FIRE.
The above Permit to Enter has been read and understood and is hereby agreed to and accepted.
COUNTY FIRE
By Date
Mike E. Rock
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
By Date
L. Craig Britton, General Manager
Attest
Lisa Zadek, Acting District Clerk
Attachments:
Exhibit 1 - Map of burn site
Exhibit 2 - Certificate of Insurance
Sierra Azul Open Space Prep--,krve
Midpenins a Regional Open S a : District
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Regional Open F ice
----------------------
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
R-01-60
Meeting 01-12
May 23, 2001
AGENDA ITEM 6
AGENDA ITEM
Scheduling of a Special Meeting of the Board of Director on y 30, 2001 and Cancellation of
June 13, 2001 Regular Board Meeting
GENERAL MANAGER'S RECOMMENDATM�
1. Schedule a Special Board Meeting for May 30, 2001.
2. Cancel your June 13, 2001 Regular Meeting.
DISCUSSION
As a result of Board and staff attendance at the Special Park Districts Forum being held during
the period of June 13 through June 16, 2001 and other management team staff and Board
member vacations during the month of June, it is recommend that the regular Board meeting on
June 13, 2001 be cancelled. There will be an absence of three Board members and three
management team staff members if the regular meeting is held on June 13.
It is also recommended that a Special Board Meeting be scheduled for May 30, 2001 which
would include a closed session concerning Board appointees' performance evaluations for the
General Manager, General Counsel and Controller. There is a possibility that other items of
business may be scheduled for the May 30 Special Meeting if there are items that require Board
action prior to your next regular meeting of June 27, 2001.
Prepared by:
Lisa Zadek, Acting District Clerk
Contact person:
L. Craig Britton, General Manager
330 Distel Circle e Los Altos,CA 94022-1404 • Phone:650-691-1200
Fax:650-691-0485 * E-mail:mrosd@openspace.org •Web site:www.openspace.org
Board of Directors:Pete Siemens,Mary C.Davey,Jed Cyr,Deane Little, Nonette Hanko,Larry Hassett, Kenneth C.Nitz -General Manager:L.Craig Britton
Claims No. 01-10
Meeting 01-12
Date: May 23, 2001
Revised
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
# Amount Name Description
1807 77.40 Ace Fire Equipment&Service Co., Inc. Fire Extinguishers
1808 358.00 Acme&Sons Sanitation Sanitation Services
1809 906.69 Allied Auto Works Vehicle Maintenance&Repairs
1810 474.88 All Laser Service Printer Cartridges
1811 1,507.00 American Society of Landscape Architects GIS Software
1812 580.73 ANG Newspapers Recruitment Advertisement
1813 79.20 AT&T Telephone Service
1814 64.15 Gordon Baillie Reimbursement--Resource Document
1815 7,525.00 Barclay Mapworks, Inc. Santa Clara Co. GIS Data/Parcel&APN's
1816 1,714.51 BNY Western Trust Company Arbitrage Rebate Fund-1999 Revenue Bonds
1817 197.20 Bay Muffler Vehicle Maintenance&Repairs
1818 250.00 Bee Busters Honey Bee Colony Removal-FRO
1819 48.84 Browning Ferris Industries Garbage Service
1820 123.00 Bill's Towing&Recovery Vehicle Towing Services
1821 29.88 Board of Equalization Diesel Fuel Tax
1822 180.59 California Water Service Company Water Service
1823 440.00 Cambria Corporation Computer Server Consultant
1824 110.00 Camino Medical Group Medical Services
1825 526.21 Cascade Fire Equipment Company Fire Pumper Parts
1826 131.74 R. V. Cloud Plumbing Repair Parts
1827 536.51 Cole Supply Co., Inc. Janitorial Supplies
1828 396.63 Costco Wholesale Office Supplies
1829 109.04 Dennis Dart Vehicle Mileage
1830 2,370.00 Dennis Eccles Methuselah Bridge Engineer
1831 121.31 Emergency Vehicle Systems Code 3 Equipment Repairs
1832 75.00 Kevin Emery Builder Door Lockset Repairs
1833 158.00 Environmental Career Opportunities Recruitment Advertisement
1834 1,053.95 ESRI ArcView Software-Planning Department
1835 85.75 Film To Frame Training Tape Duplication
1836 420.00 David Flack Windows 2000 Consulting Services
1837 258.01 Forestry Suppliers, Inc. Safety Supplies
1838 218.58 Foster Brothers Locks
1839 58.28 G&K Services Shop Towel Service
1840 884.04 Gardenland Power Equipment Field Supplies
1841 284.68 Goodco Press, Inc. Warning Notice Printing
1842 1,594.97 Home Depot Field Supplies
1843 870.00 H. T. Harvey&Associates La Honda OSP-Habitat Damage Assessment
1844 69.11 Nancy Foster Jacobs Passport Holders-"Spaces&Species"
1845 1,500.00 JAMS-The Resolution Experts Legal Services
1846 35.47 Keeble&Shuchat Photography Photography Services
1847 32.66 Lanier Worldwide, Inc. Copier Lease
1848 96.62 Life Assist, Inc. Safety Supplies
1849 1,055.45 Los Altos Garbage Co. Garbage Service
1850 67.50 Los Altos Town Crier Recruitment Advertisement
1851 3,880.14 Macias, Gini&Company LLP Auditing Services
1852 85.00 Magana's Building Maintenance Construction Clean-up-Distel Building
1853 150.24 MetroMobileCommunications Radio Repairs
1854 806.54 Miracle Auto Painting&Body Repair Vehicle Repairs
1855 900.00 Neufeld, Jaffe, Levin&Colantuono, LLP Legal Services
Page 1
Claims No. 01-10
Meeting 01-12
Date: May 23, 2001
Revised
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
# Amount Name Description
1856 1,042.19 Noble Tractor Incorporated Tractor Repairs
1857 60.53 Northern Energy Propane Service
1858 1,237.33 Office Depot Office Supplies
1859 1,812.45 Office Team Temporary Office Help
1860 1,373.45 Orchard Supply Hardware Field Supplies
1861 1,156.54 Pacific Bell Telephone Service
1862 37.18 Pacific Water Systems Water Filter Cartridge
1863 391.50 Palo Alto Daily News Recruitment Advertisement
1864 467.34 Palo Alto Weekly Recruitment Advertisement
1865 146.34 Peninsula Blueprint Board Exhibits
1866 79.80 Peninsula Transmission Service, Inc. Vehicle Repairs
1867 48.06 PIP Printing Business Card Printing
1868 59.83 Pitney Bowes, Inc. Postage Machine Supplies
1869 70.20 Porter Rents Safety Fair Equipment Rental
1870 72.26 Rayne Water Conditioning Water Conditioning
1871 678.16 Redwood General Tire Company Tires
1872 4,965.00 Resource Strategies Inc. Aerial Imagery-USGS Quads
1873 10.00 Rich's Truck&Tire Service Tire Repair
1874 149.84 *1 Roto-Rooter Plumbing Repairs-Distel Circle Building
1875 177.99 Russ Enterprises, Inc. Signs
1876 125.82 Safety-Kleen Solvent Tank Service
1877 1,183.02 San Jose Mercury News Recruitment Advertisement
1878 1,648.31 Saratoga Country Club Landscape Architectural Services-Shared
1879 85.31 Skyline County Water District Water Services
1880 488.12 Summit Uniforms Uniforms
1881 962.25 Tadco Supply Janitorial Supplies
1882 547.52 Target Specialty Products Weed Abatement Supplies
1883 64.78 The Bicycle Outfitter Patrol Bicycle Repair Parts
1884 546.80 Tires On The Go Tires
1885 187.50 Transworld Media Group Recruitment Advertisement
1886 35.23 Turf&Industrial Equipment Co. Field Supplies
1887 5,500.00 *2 United States Postmaster Postage Deposit
1888 225.00 Verio, Inc. Internet Service
1889 43.32 Verizon California White Page Listing
1890 1,362.00 WAC Corporation, Inc. Aerial Photos
1891 193.56 Wildfire Firehose
1892 600.00 Roberta Wolfe Recording Services
1893R 718.30 Michael Johnson 10% Retention-FRO Office Modifications
1894R 493.56 R D Office Solutions Office Furniture
1895R 336.89 Petty Cash Office Supplies, Volunteer Supplies, Local
Business Meeting Expense, and Resource
Totals 62,881.78 Management Supplies
*1 Urgent Check Issued May 15, 2001
*2 Urgent Check Issued May 15, 2001
Page 2
Claims No. 01-10
Meeting 01-12
Date: May 23, 2001
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
# Amount Name Description
1807 77.40 Ace Fire Equipment&Service Co., Inc. Fire Extinguishers
1808 358.00 Acme&Sons Sanitation Sanitation Services
1809 906.69 Allied Auto Works Vehicle Maintenance&Repairs
1810 474.88 All Laser Service Printer Cartridges
1811 1,507.00 American Society of Landscape Architects GIS Software
1812 580.73 ANG Newspapers Recruitment Advertisement
1813 79.20 AT&T Telephone Service
1814 64.15 Gordon Baillie Reimbursement--Resource Document
1815 7,525.00 Barclay Mapworks, Inc. Santa Clara Co. GIS Data/Parcel&APN's
1816 1,714.51 BNY Western Trust Company Arbitrage Rebate Fund-1999 Revenue Bonds
1817 197.20 Bay Muffler Vehicle Maintenance&Repairs
1818 250.00 Bee Busters Honey Bee Colony Removal-FRO
1819 48.84 Browning Ferris Industries Garbage Service
1820 123.00 Bill's Towing&Recovery Vehicle Towing Services
1821 29.88 Board of Equalization Diesel Fuel Tax
1822 180.59 California Water Service Company Water Service
1823 440.00 Cambria Corporation Computer Server Consultant
1824 110.00 Camino Medical Group Medical Services
1825 526.21 Cascade Fire Equipment Company Fire Pumper Parts
1826 131.74 R. V. Cloud Plumbing Repair Parts
1827 536.51 Cole Supply Co., Inc. Janitorial Supplies
1828 396.63 Costco Wholesale Office Supplies
1829 109.04 Dennis Dart Vehicle Mileage
1830 2,370.00 Dennis Eccles Methuselah Bridge Engineer
1831 121.31 Emergency Vehicle Systems Code 3 Equipment Repairs
1832 75.00 Kevin Emery Builder Door Lockset Repairs
1833 158.00 Environmental Career Opportunities Recruitment Advertisement
1834 1,053.95 ESRI ArcView Software-Planning Department
1835 85.75 Film To Frame Training Tape Duplication
1836 420.00 David Flack Windows 2000 Consulting Services
1837 258.01 Forestry Suppliers, Inc. Safety Supplies
1838 218.58 Foster Brothers Locks
1839 58.28 G&K Services Shop Towel Service
1840 884.04 Gardenland Power Equipment Field Supplies
1841 284.68 Goodco Press, Inc. Warning Notice Printing
1842 1,594.97 Home Depot Field Supplies
1843 870.00 H. T. Harvey&Associates La Honda OSP-Habitat Damage Assessment
1844 69.11 Nancy Foster Jacobs Passport Holders-"Spaces&Species"
1845 1,500.00 JAMS-The Resolution Experts Legal Services
1846 35.47 Keeble&Shuchat Photography Photography Services
1847 32.66 Lanier Worldwide, Inc. Copier Lease
1848 96.62 Life Assist, Inc. Safety Supplies
1849 1,055.45 Los Altos Garbage Co. Garbage Service
1850 67.50 Los Altos Town Crier Recruitment Advertisement
1851 3,880.14 Macias, Gini&Company LLP Auditing Services
1852 85.00 Magana's Building Maintenance Construction Clean-up-Distel Building
1853 150.24 MetroMobileCommunications Radio Repairs
1854 806.54 Miracle Auto Painting&Body Repair Vehicle Repairs
1855 900.00 Neufeld, Jaffe, Levin&Colantuono, LLP Legal Services
Page 1
Claims No. 01-10
Meeting 01-12
Date: May 23, 2001
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
# Amount Name Description
1856 1,042.19 Noble Tractor Incorporated Tractor Repairs
1857 60.53 Northern Energy Propane Service
1858 1,237.33 Office Depot Office Supplies
1859 1,812.45 Office Team Temporary Office Help
1860 1,373.45 Orchard Supply Hardware Field Supplies
1861 1,156.54 Pacific Bell Telephone Service
1862 37.18 Pacific Water Systems Water Filter Cartridge
1863 391.50 Palo Alto Daily News Recruitment Advertisement
1864 467.34 Palo Alto Weekly Recruitment Advertisement
1865 146.34 Peninsula Blueprint Board Exhibits
1866 79.80 Peninsula Transmission Service, Inc. Vehicle Repairs
1867 48.06 PIP Printing Business Card Printing
1868 59.83 Pitney Bowes, Inc. Postage Machine Supplies
1869 70.20 Porter Rents Safety Fair Equipment Rental
1870 72.26 Rayne Water Conditioning Water Conditioning
1871 678.16 Redwood General Tire Company Tires
1872 4,965.00 Resource Strategies Inc. Aerial Imagery-USGS Quads
1873 10.00 Rich's Truck&Tire Service Tire Repair
1874 149.84 *1 Roto-Rooter Plumbing Repairs-Distel Circle Building
1875 177.99 Russ Enterprises, Inc. Signs
1876 125.82 Safety-Kleen Solvent Tank Service
1877 1,183.02 San Jose Mercury News Recruitment Advertisement
1878 1,648.31 Saratoga Country Club Landscape Architectural Services-Shared
1879 85.31 Skyline County Water District Water Services
1880 488.12 Summit Uniforms Uniforms
1881 962.25 Tadco Supply Janitorial Supplies
1882 547.52 Target Specialty Products Weed Abatement Supplies
1883 64.78 The Bicycle Outfitter Patrol Bicycle Repair Parts
1884 546.80 Tires On The Go Tires
1885 187.50 Transworld Media Group Recruitment Advertisement
1886 35.23 Turf&Industrial Equipment Co. Field Supplies
1887 5,500.00 *2 United States Postmaster Postage Deposit
1888 225.00 Verio, Inc. Internet Service
1889 43.32 Verizon California White Page Listing
1890 1,362.00 WAC Corporation, Inc. Aerial Photos
1891 193.56 Wildfire Firehose
1892 600.00 Roberta Wolfe Recording Services
Totals 61,333.03
*1 Urgent Check Issued May 15, 2001
*2 Urgent Check Issued May 15, 2001
Page 2
Regional Open Space
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
To: Board of Directors
From: L. Craig Britton, General Manager
Date: May 18, 2001
Re: FYI's
330 Distel Circle • Los Altos,CA 94022-1404 • Phone: 650-691-1200
Fax: 650-691-0485 • E-mail: mrosd@openspace.org • Web site: www.openspace.org
Regional Open 5; ice
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
Memorandum
May 17, 2001
I
To: Craig Britton, General Manager
From: Paul McKowan, Volunteer Coordinator
Subject: Volunteer Trail Patrol Activity Summary
From: 1/1/01 To: 3/31/01
s
VIOLATIONS OBSERVED
PRESERVES
TOTAL PATROL HOURS
Coal Creek (11)
El Corte de Madera '(24)
El Sereno (2)
Fremont Older 71) 1 1 3 9 14
Long Ridge (2) 1 1 2
Los Trancos (7)
Monte Bello (25)
Picchetti (4)
Pulgas Ridge (2
Purisima Creek 26 2 1 2 5
Rancho (509) 4 4
Russian Ride (16) 1 1
Saratoga Gap (4)
Sierra Azul (15)
Skyline Ride 11)
St. Joseph's Hill (13) 4 5 9
Windy Hill (33) 2 1 8 1 12
TOTAL VIOATIONS 3 11 6 23 4 47
PER VIOLATION TYPE
PERCENTAGE OF 6% 23% 13% 49% 9% 100%
TOTAL VIOLATIONS*
Total Violations Observed: 47
Total Patrol Hours: 775
Average Patrol Hours Per Week: 60
*Violations of this type as a percentage of the total number of violations observed
a{ COUNTY OF SACRAMENTO
1 ti PLANNING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
*o
827 SEVENTH STREET,ROOM 230 THOMAS W. HUTCHINGS
SACRAMENTO,CALIFORNIA 95814 DIRECTOR
,� qY Telephone: (916)874-6141
c� Fax:(916)874-6400 Robert Sherry,Principal Planner
cq Lr rs Long Range Planning&Enforcement
/FORK
Tricia Stevens,Principal Planner
Application Processing
Ana Rhodes,ASO III
Administration
May 14, 2001
�z
Craig Britton, General Manager Fr�
�; r', j, `f {
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District 33 Distel Circle }t
Los Altos CA 94022-1404 �41 MAY 16 2001It
�
MIpFFMNSULA REGIONAL V114-
Subject: July 27, 2001 Open Space Discussion Panel SrACE M,STRIC1
Dear Mr. Britton:
Thank you for agreeing to be a speaker at the Regional Open Space Discussion Panel on Friday,
July 27, 2001 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon.
The location is the City of Sacramento's Planning Commission Chambers at 1231 `I' Street,
Room 102, Sacramento, CA. It is on the northwest corner of 131b and `I' Streets.
The other speakers are Darla I. Guenzler, Associate Director of the Bay Area Open Space
Council, Dave Hansen from Marin County Open Space District and John Kupchik from Contra
Costa County Community Planning Department.
Later this month I will be contacting you to talk in more detail what your needs are for your
presentation and how we will coordinate the topics each of the speakers will cover. At that time
maybe we can discuss meeting in person to better facilitate the discussion.
Again, thank you for volunteering your valuable time to take part on the discussion panel.
Singe e y
Marty Strauss
Associate Planner
I
Page 1 of 1
Kristi Webb
From: <Hufty@aol.com>
To: <mrosd@openspace.org>
Sent: Wednesday, May 09, 2001 7:57 PM
Subject: No Subject
The Board of Directors
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
330 Distel Circle
Los Altos, Ca 94022
Dear Board of Directors, May 8. 2001
The Town of Portola Valley has built and dedicated a bench to Betsy
Crowder in memory and honor of her unflagging dedication to open space, the
environment and her community. We would like to contribute this bench to the
observation deck that you are considering at Sausal Pond. We support the idea
of the observation deck and are very pleased that you will be renaming the
adjoining trail the Betsy Crowder Memorial Trail.
The Trails Committee of Portola Valley felt that this was an appropriate
location for it and symbolized the satisfying results that have come from the
many joint efforts of MROSD and the town of Portola Valley which Betsy was
instrumental in effecting. We look forward to seeing you at the dedication.
Please, let me know if and when this fits with your plans.
Sincerely,
Mary Page Hufty, Chairman Portola Valley Trails Committee
257 Mapache DR
Portola Valley, Ca. 94028
5110101
Regional Open ice
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
May 15, 2001
Ms. Audrey C. Rust
President
Peninsula Open Space Trust
3000 Sand Hill Road, 4-135
Menlo Park, CA 94025
Dear Ms. Rust,
The Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District supports the Peninsula Open Space Trust's
(POST)efforts and Congressman Tom Lantos' legislation to protect the 4,262 acre property
known as Rancho Corral de Tierra. This land, located next to the highly urbanized region of the
San Francisco Bay Area, should become part of the Golden Gate National Recreational Area
(GGNRA).
Sharing over three miles of boundary with the GGNRA, inclusion of this property in the park
would create a dramatic and logical southern entrance. It would protect unique coastal scrub and
chaparral habitat that supports numerous threatened, rare and endangered plan and animal species.
Additionally, it would provide an opportunity to create a network of trails with adjacent public
lands.
We heartily endorse the Congressional action for the expansion of the Golden Gate National
Recreation Area to include Rancho Corral de Tierra.
r
Sincerely,
L. Craig ritton
General Manager
LCB:lz
cc: MROSD, Board of Directors
330 Distel Circle • Los Altos, CA 94022-1404 • Phone:650-691-1200
Fax:650-691-0485 • E-mail:mrosd@openspace.org •web site:www.openspace.org
Board of Directors:Pete Siemens,Mary C.Davey,Jed Cyr, Deane Little, Nonette Hanko,Larry Hassett,Kenneth C.Nitz •General Manager:L.Craig Britton
MAY 1 4 2001
• Peninsula Open Space Trust
Board of Directors
Allan F.Brown
Patricia A.Compton May 10,2001
Susan Ford
Vince S.Garrod
Sukey Grousbeck
Christina A.Holloway Mr. Craig Britton
Robert C.Kirkwood General Manager
Dianne McKenna
Norman E.Matteoni Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
David W.Mitchell 330 Distel Circle
Paul Newhagen Los Altos,CA 94022
Bill Reller
Karie Thomson
T.Chester Wang
Anne M.Westerfield Dear Craig:
Advisory Council
Robert Augsburger The Peninsula Open Space Trust(POST)urgently seeks the endorsement of
James E.Baer Federal Legislation for the expansion of current Golden Gate National
Eleanor Boushey
Sheldon Breiner,Ph.D. ( ) e a Recreation Area GGNRA boundaries to include propertyknown as Rancho
rein
Robert V.Brown Corral de Tierra.
William H.Clark,M.D.
Sue Crane Lois Crozier-Hogle At 4,262 acres,Rancho Corral, located on the San Mateo Coast just north of the
Laurence Dawson town of Montara,provides habitat for numerous endangered and rare species
Herbert J.Dengler such as the peregrine falcon,San Bruno elfin butterfly,San Francisco garter
J.Philip Di Napoli
Phyllis Draper snake and California red-legged frog. Breathtaking views from the property's
Clarence J.Ferrari,Jr. peaks extend in all directions. Such views are unequaled and make Rancho
David L.Fletcher Corral a highly visible important acquisition.
Rosemary Hewlett g y poran
Patricia L.Hooper
Mary P.Hufty,M.D. With 4.2 miles of Rancho Corral's boundary adjacent to existing public lands,it
Suzanne B.King Melvin B.Lane presents an unparalleled opportunity for both parkland expansion and
Robert W.McIntyre completion of regional trail corridors. The addition of GGNRA land with this
George M.Marcus property would mean that approximately 29,700 contib.:ous acres of open
Jacqueline Mayer Robert H.Miller space or 46.4 square miles would be protected.
Gordon E.Moore,Ph.D.
Bette Moorman Congressman Tom Lantos(D-San Mateo County and San Francisco)is leading
Janet Morris
Susan P.Orr the expansion and appropriation efforts in Washington. After the boundary
F.Ward Paine expansion has been approved,we would be looking for approximately$10
Paul O.Reimer million in federal monies from the Land and Water Conservation Fund for
Barbara Doyle Roupe
Alexander H.Schilling,Jr. Rancho Corral. Appropriations from this federal fund are not competitive with
Geraldine F.Steinberg state or local programs.
Rosemary Young
Leah Zaffaroni
Your letter is critical in demonstrating strong local support for the boundary
President expansion. It sets the tone that this property is of significant importance to
Audrey C.Rust deem inclusion under National Park guidelines and lays the groundwork for
3000 Sand Hill Road,4-135
Menlo Park,California 94025
Tel: (650)854-7696
Fax: (650)854-7703
www.openspacetrust.org
Recycled Paper
Mr. Craig Britton
May 10,2001
Page 2
future appropriation legislation. I am attaching an information sheet on Rancho Corral
and a sample endorsement letter to assist you.
POST was under a confidentialityagreement with the sellers of Rancho Corral and
therefore we are on a tight timeline. Boundary expansion legislation is due to be
announced on May 22',so please send us copies of your letters by May 17th so that
we may use them with our Congressmen and Senators. I enclose a return envelope for
your convenience.
Your endorsement of this project and the credibility it brings to our efforts will be crucial
in Washington. Thank you for your help. Your concern for local land conservation is
greatly appreciated.
Sincerely,
Audrey C. Rust
President
I
Rancho Corral de Tierra - San Mateo County, California
Golden Gate National Recreation Area Boundary Expansion
• FACT SHEET
PROPERTY DESCRIPTION:
• Rancho Corral,located seven miles south of San Francisco and 20 miles from Silicon Valley,
is comprised of 4,262 acres
• Shares over three miles of boundary with the Golden Gate National Recreation Area
• The isolated and undisturbed condition of the land provides unique and productive habitat
for a diverse array of plant and animal species
• Supports distinctive coastal scrub and coastal chaparral habitats with numerous federally
listed threatened,rare and endangered plant and animal species and a number of other
special species of concern,including:
• Peregrine Falcon • Hickman's cinquefoil
• San Bruno Elfin Butterfly • Montara Manzanita
• San Francisco Garter Snake • Montara Bush Lupine
• Red-legged Frog •San Francisco Wallflower
• Coho Salmon • Coast Rock Cress
• Visible for over 25 miles,the property provides a scenic view-shed for California State
Highway 1,part of the Cabrillo State Scenic Corridor
• Contains the headwaters for four major watersheds;these stream systems provide
important riparian habitat for a number of threatened and endangered species also offers
wildlife a vital source of water,increased cover,and feeding and nesting opportunities
I
• Historically known as"Rancho Corral de Tierra Palomares"(Corral of the Earth),it
encompasses the majority of the 1839 Mexican Land Grant to Francisco Guerrero y
Palomeres where he built the first adobe on the San Mateo Coast at Denniston Creek
SIGNIFICANCE:
• Accessible by the more than 6 million people who live within a one hour drive
• Crucial corridor for connecting the Congressionally designated Bay Area Ridge Trail with
the California Coastal Trail
• Easily accessible by public transportation from State Highway 1
• The dramatic ascent of Montara Mountain from the sea,2,000 feet in just over 1 mile,is a
spectacular sight not duplicated anywhere else in the Park and in few other places on the
California coast
Page 1 of 2
• Would establish a clear and logical southern entrance to the park that is currently lacking,
providing an ideal location to introduce visitors to its unique configuration and its status as
national parkland,with the large,single,geographically dramatic figure Montara Mt. f
• The National Park Service Boundary Study finds that this addition is practical to administer
• As part of the GGNRA,the property would provide national park programs and
experiences to unprecedented numbers of local,national and international visitors
• Presents a unique opportunity for permanent protection through a three-way partnership
involving Federal,State and Private entities
I
FINANCING:
• POST entered into an option to purchase for$29,750,000
• POST intends to leverage significant Federal funds through the use of matching grants from
State and Private funding sources
THREAT:
• Accessibility,beauty and zoning make it extremely vulnerable to development
• Current zoning regulations would degrade the property's principal character-defining and
incomparable qualities
• Opportunity lost to give permanent protection to threatened and endangered species
Page 2 of 2
• Would establish a clear and logical southern entrance to the park that is currently lacking,
providing an ideal location to introduce visitors to its unique configuration and its status as
national parkland,with the large,single,geographically dramatic figure Montara Mt.
• The National Park Sernice Boundary Study finds that this addition is practical to administer
• As part of the GGNRA,the property would provide national park programs and
experiences to unprecedented numbers of local,national and international visitors
• Presents a unique opportunity for permanent protection through a three-way partnership
involving Federal,State and Private entities
FINANCING:
• POST entered into an option to purchase for$29,750,000
• POST intends to leverage significant Federal funds through the use of matching grants from
State and Private funding sources
THREAT:
• Accessibility,beauty and zoning make it extremely vulnerable to development
• Current zoning regulations would degrade the property's principal character-defining and
incomparable qualities
• Opportunity lost to give permanent protection to threatened and endangered species
Page 2 of 2
Regional Open ice
m. -, ........
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
May 14, 2001
Ms. Cindy Roessler
Santa Clara Valley Water District
5750 Almaden Expressway
San Jose, CA 95118
RE: Draft Stream Maintenance Program and Environmental Impact Report
Dear Ms. Roessler:
On behalf of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, I would like to submit the
following comments regarding the Santa Clara Valley Water District's Draft Stream
Maintenance Program and Environmental Impact Report. The Midpeninsula Regional
Open Space District owns and manages approximately 46,000 acres of open space land
on the San Francisco Bay peninsula, including lands in the cities of Palo Alto, Mountain
View, Sunnyvale, Cupertino, Saratoga and Los Gatos, which are within Santa Clara
Valley Water District boundaries. As an active open space preservation agency,we
expect to acquire more lands within the Santa Clara Basin. We look forward to working
closely with Santa Clara Valley Water District to help implement the Stream
Maintenance Program.
Stream Maintenance Program Preferred Alternative
The District supports the preferred Multi-Year Program Alternative of the Stream
Maintenance Program, which balances flood protection of streams and water delivery of
canals with the long-term protection of the Santa Clara and Pajaro River Basins and the
region's biodiversity.
Acquisition of Land and Conservation Easements
The District encourages the purchase of land and conservation easements to preserve,
protect and improve watersheds and streams. The criteria established to evaluate and
prioritize acquisitions will ensure compensation for impacts to freshwater wetlands
caused by maintenance activities in stream channels and canals.
Stream and Watershed Protection
The mitigation activities to compensate for impacts to freshwater wetlands recommended
in the Draft Stream Maintenance Program are directed at preservation and improvement
of streams that are generally in a fairly undisturbed state and in good ecological
condition. However, the District believes that restoration and enhancement of degraded
streams is equally important in improving watersheds and maintaining regional
i
330 Distel Circle • Los Altos,CA 94022-1404 * Phone:650-691-1200
Fax:650-691-0485 • E-mail:mrosd®openspace.org m Web site:www.openspace.org tmg
Board of Directors:Pete Siemens,Mary C.Davey,Jed Cyr, Deane Little, Nonette Hanko,Larry Hassett,Kenneth C.Nitz m General Manager:L.Craig Britton
biodiversity. Therefore, we recommend giving equal weight to restoration of degraded
streams when identifying locations for mitigation activities.
Using the approximate per acre cost of Water District riparian mitigation projects as the
basis of credit for restoration and management(1 acre of mitigation credit for each
$150,000 of projects funded) is a logical and practical approach. In applying the
mitigation credits, it would be beneficial to know whether these costs include planning
and engineering for the implementation of specific projects, and subsequent monitoring
to ensure their effectiveness.
Environmental Assessment: Biological Resources
The discussion of mitigation measures for maintenance activities that require tree
removal with active nests of migratory birds and birds of prey includes relocation of the
birds that are present. The recommendations should also emphasize that removing trees
during the non-breeding season would reduce impacts to the birds. Similarly, the
discussion and recommendations regarding streambed cleanup should address the
potential to reduce impacts on fish by conducting maintenance activities when the fish
are not spawning.
The District encourages coordination and cooperation with agency partners to facilitate
implementation of the proposed Stream Maintenance Program and we applaud your
efforts to protect the watersheds. We appreciate the opportunity to comment on the Draft
Stream Maintenance Program and Environmental Impact Report. Please contact me if
you have any questions regarding our comments.
Sincerely,
Cath oodburY�. ASLkAICP
Planning Manager
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
Cc: MROSD Board of Directors
L. Craig Britton, General Manager
vr ' w recommend iv' w 'biodi e sity. Therefore, e recom e d giving equal eight to restoration of degraded
streams when identifying locations for mitigation activities.
Using the approximate per acre cost of Water District riparian mitigation projects as the
basis of credit for restoration and management(1 acre of mitigation credit for each
$150,000 of projects funded) is a logical and practical approach. In applying the
mitigation credits, it would be beneficial to know whether these costs include planning
and engineering for the implementation of specific projects, and subsequent monitoring
to ensure their effectiveness.
Environmental Assessment: Biological Resources
The discussion of mitigation measures for maintenance activities that require tree
removal with active nests of migratory birds and birds of prey includes relocation of the
birds that are present. The recommendations should also emphasize that removing trees
during the non-breeding season would reduce impacts to the birds. Similarly, the
discussion and recommendations regarding streambed cleanup should address the
potential to reduce impacts on fish by conducting maintenance activities when the fish
are not spawning.
The District encourages coordination and cooperation with agency partners to facilitate
implementation of the proposed Stream Maintenance Program and we applaud your
efforts to protect the watersheds. We appreciate the opportunity to comment on the Draft
Stream Maintenance Program and Environmental Impact Report. Please contact me if
you have any questions regarding our comments.
Sincerely,
Cath oodbury, AS AICP
Planning Manager
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
Cc: MROSD Board of Directors
L. Craig Britton, General Manager
Regional Open r ice
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
May 14, 2001
Ms. Cindy Roessler
Santa Clara Valley Water District
5750 Almaden Expressway
San Jose, CA 95118
RE: Draft Stream Maintenance Program and Environmental Impact Report
Dear Ms. Roessler:
On behalf of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, I would like to submit the
following comments regarding the Santa Clara Valley Water District's Draft Stream
Maintenance Program and Environmental Impact Report. The Midpeninsula Regional
Open Space District owns and manages approximately 46,000 acres of open space land
on the San Francisco Bay peninsula, including lands in the cities of Palo Alto, Mountain
View, Sunnyvale, Cupertino, Saratoga and Los Gatos, which are within Santa Clara
Valley Water District boundaries. As an active open space preservation agency,we
expect to acquire more lands within the Santa Clara Basin. We look forward to working
closely with Santa Clara Valley Water District to help implement the Stream
Maintenance Program.
Stream Maintenance Program Preferred Alternative
The District supports the preferred Multi-Year Program Alternative of the Stream
Maintenance Program, which balances flood protection of streams and water delivery of
canals with the long-term protection of the Santa Clara and Pajaro River Basins and the
region's biodiversity.
Acquisition of Land and Conservation Easements
The District encourages the purchase of land and conservation easements to preserve,
protect and improve watersheds and streams. The criteria established to evaluate and
prioritize acquisitions will ensure compensation for impacts to freshwater wetlands
caused by maintenance activities in stream channels and canals.
Stream and Watershed Protection
The mitigation activities to compensate for impacts to freshwater wetlands recommended
in the Draft Stream Maintenance Program are directed at preservation and improvement
of streams that are generally in a fairly undisturbed state and in good ecological
condition. However, the District believes that restoration and enhancement of degraded
streams is equally important in improving watersheds and maintaining regional
330 Distel Circle • Los Altos,CA 94022-1404 * Phone:650-691-1200
Fax:650-691-0485 • E-mail:mrosd®openspace.org •Web site:www.openspace.org tg�fl
Board of Directors:Pete Siemens,Mary C.Davey,Jed Cyr,Deane Little,Nonette Hanko,Larry Hassett,Kenneth C. Nitz -General Manager:L.Craig Britton
Regional Open Space
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
To: Board of Directors
From: L. Craig Britton General Manage
Date: May 23, 2001
Re: FYI's
330 Distel Circle • Los Altos,CA 94022-1404 • Phone:650-691-1200
Fax: 650-691-0485 • E-mail: mrosdQopenspace.org • Web site- www.openspace.org
Regional Open ' -ice
1
1
MIDPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
INTER-OFFICE MEMORANDUM
To: C. Britton, General Manager
Y L' "~
j ,
From: Williams, Real Property Representative
Date: May 22, 2001
Subject: Gorham, Tabel, & POST Property Additions to Purisima Creek Redwood Open Space
Preserve
The Gift Deed for the Tabel/daMotta Redwood Park parcel was recorded on January 22, 2001. The
Deeds for the Gorham & POST Redwood Park parcels were recorded on May 5, 2001. Title and
possession of these four parcels, totaling .34-acres, passed to the District accordingly.
I am not aware of any use and management concerns that were not addressed in the staff report to the
Board. In accordance with the public notification policy, and since there were no public and/or
adjoining owner comments which might require amendment to the use and management
recommendations, close of escrow marks the final adoption of the preliminary use and management
plan recommendation as tentatively approved by the Board of Directors at their meeting of April 25,
2001.
DEDICATION/ACQUISITION CHART INFORMATION
Ownership Status: Board Approval
Preserve/Area County/A.P.N. Grantor Acres (Fee,Easement, Lease, Date/Res. No.
Mgmt Agmt.)
Purisima Creek 067-102-030 daMotta/Tabel .34 Fee April 25, 2001
Redwoods 067-137-030 & 060 Gorham& 01-10
067-128-020 POST
Dedication Date/
Mgmt. Status: Status:
Closing Date (Open, Closed, CMU, (Intended Type Purchase Price GIS Code
or Other) Withheld)
May 5, 2001 Closed Intended Gift
Misc. Notes:
cc: Board of Directors
Administration
Operations
Accounting
Planning
330 Distel Circle • Los Altos, CA 94022-1404 • Phone:650-691-1200
Fax:650-691-0485 . E-mail:mrosd®openspace.org •Web site:www.openspace.org
Board of Directors:Pete Siemens,Mary C.Davey,Jed Cyr,Deane Little, Nonette Hanko,Larry Hassett,Kenneth C.Nitz •General Manager:L.Craig Britton
l; E EQWE
f I,� MAY 2 iCGI L .
IVIMPENINSULA REGIONAL OPEN
�7r
BAY AREA SPACE DISTRICT
RIDGE TRAIL
C O U N C I L
May 17, 2001
Mr. Brendan Downing
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
330 Distel Circle
Los Altos, CA 94022-1404
Dear Brendan,
Joel, Bob and I want to thank you for escorting us on the bicycle tour of the Bay Area
Ridge Trail through the Russian Ridge area. We were grateful for the opportunity to be
guided along the route you recently opened to mountain bicycles and to see first hand the
things the District is doing to accommodate bikers. We particularly appreciated your
articulate explanation of the history of the area and the issues involved in resolving user
interests.
I also want to thank you for your suggestions for signing trails that cross private lands.
As I mentioned, the Ridge Trail is in the process of acquiring trail easements from
individual landowners. I will be passing along your successful experiences to owners
who are concerned about public trails on private property.
Speaking for myself, I appreciated your advice on handling a mountain bike - something
I haven't done for a while—it made the difference between an enjoyable day and what
could have been a personal disaster!
Happy trails,
V,�
Bill Long
Chair, Bay Area Ridge Trail Council V� 1 >I
V�l
cc: Mary Davey, Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
Bob Power, Bay Area Ridge Trail Council VUL
aa,
Joel Gartland, Bay Area Ridge Trail Council
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26 OTARRELL STREET. 4TH FLOOR. SAN FRANCISCO. CALIFORNIA 94108
PHONE (415)391-930U FAX (415)391-2649
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INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM
May 21, 2001 r
TO: C. Britton, General Manger
FROM: G. Baillie, Management Analyst
SUBJECT: MONTHLY FIELD ACTIVITY SUMMARY
Month April Year 2001
VIOLATIONS CITES TOTALS CRIMES TOTALS
Bicycles Auto burglary 1
Closed area 3 6
Speed 5 10
Helmet 18 29 ACCIDENTS/INCIDENTS
Night-riding 0 9 Bicycle accident 4
Unsafe operation 0 0 Vehicle accident 1
Dogs Hiking/Running accident 0
Prohibited area 5 6 LZ air evacuation 1
Off-leash 7 9 Other first aid 1
Off-road vehicles 1 2 Search and Rescue 2
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Closed area _ 0 2
After hours 1 3
Fishing 0 2 ENFORCEMENT
Vandalism 0 2 Parking citations 29
Parking 18 25 Other citations 40
Parking after hours 11 20 Written warnings 54
Dumping/littering 0 1 Arrests 0
Campfires 0 0 Police assistance 1
Camping 0 0
Weapons MUTUAL AID
Actual contact 0 0 Accident 5
Report only 0 0 Fire (vehicle) 0
Evidence of 0 1 Law enforcement 2
Unlawful trail construction 0 1 Landing zone off-site 2
Unauthorized memorial site 0 1
Smoking 0 1
Glider prohibited 0 2
Releasing wildlife 0 1
Model rocket 0 1
Collecting 0 3
Camping w/out permit 0 1
SUMMARIES OF SIGNIFICANT INCIDENTS
Apr. 5 B. Malone was leaving Rancho San Antonio County Park when he saw vehicle tail lights
entering the park and going up a trail. He contacted the motorcyclist and requested a deputy
sheriff. Ken Miller also assisted. A citation was issued for "after hours" and "vehicles
prohibited" violations.
Apr. 8 A horse collapsed in Bear Creek Redwoods for unknown reasons. The horse wandered off
without its rider and jumped a guard rail and ran onto Bear Creek Road, where it was struck
by an automobile. B. Malone arrived and determined that there were no serious injuries to
any of the people. CHP responded and completed a report. The horse was seriously
injured and was later put down by a veterinarian.
Apr. 15 A woman reported to T. Lausten that her car had been burglarized in the Rancho San
Antonio Count Park equestrian parking lot on February 8. The visitor did not notice that
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some items, including credit cards that were later used, were missing from her wallet. She
cancelled her cards. T. Lausten advised her to file a report with Santa Clara County
Sheriff's Department.
Apr. 22 A visitor reported to B. Malone that another visitor told him that a nine-year-old girl was
missing in Rancho San Antonio and that they had located the child by a car in the parking
lot. B. Malone determined the child had been missing for almost two hours. K. Miller
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responded out into the preserve and found the responsible adult. The man returned to the
lot and told rangers he had been looking for the child. He said he was not worried because
the area was crowded with people and he didn't think he should call anyone on his cell
phone. He was advised that it would be appropriate to call 911 in this situation in the
future.
Apr. 22 A visitor found an injured solo bicyclist in Fremont Older OSP. The cyclist was at first
unresponsive and later, confused. A county ranger was first on scene. P. Hearin arrived
with fire and paramedics and found the cyclist to be confused, restless, and using words
inappropriate for the questions asked. The cyclist was treated, transported to a landing
zone, and taken by helicopter to Valley Medical Center.
Apr. 21 W. Phillips located a grave or memorial site next to Horseshoe Pond. The site was marked
with three granite stones in a cross and three flowering plants. San Mateo County Sheriffs
excavated the site and found nothing.
Apr. 28 S. A.-Minshall found evidence of illegal trail maintenance in Corte Madera OSP since the
last check of the area on April 7. The closed trail was previously thought to be impassable
due to trees downed during last winter's snows. However, determined illegal trail users
have removed the downed brushy debris and cut down about 25 redwood saplings,
measuring two- to six inches in diameter.
Vandalism:
13 A chainlink fence and barbwire were cut in two places at St. Joseph's Hill OSP.
21 A sign backing was shot by a large caliber weapon on the Ridge Trail at Russian Ridge OSP.
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