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4.9 HISTORIC AND
CULTURAL RESOURCES
4.9 HISTORIC AND CULTURAL RESOURCES
Town of Truckee Coldstream Specific Plan
October 2013 Partially Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report
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This section evaluates the potential impacts the proposed Coldstream Specific Plan would have on
historic and cultural resources. The Truckee area has had a particularly rich prehistory and history,
and the town is one of the richest locations in California in terms of density and variety of historic and
cultural resources (Town of Truckee, 1997, 2006). Consequently, projects in the Truckee area must be
cognizant of potential impacts on sites of historic, cultural, or educational value. This section of the
Draft Environmental Impact Report (Draft EIR or DEIR) is based on the Archaeological Inventory
Survey prepared for the proposed project by Jensen & Associates (2002) as well as an updated
Archaeological Inventory Survey prepared by Genesis Society in 2013.
For analysis purposes, cultural resources may be categorized into four groups: archaeological
resources (prehistoric and historical); historic properties, buildings, and districts; areas of
importance to Native Americans; and paleontological resources (fossilized remains of plants and
animals). Cultural resource impacts include those to existing historic resources (i.e., historic
districts, landmarks, etc.) and to archaeological and paleontological resources.
CONCEPTS AND TERMINOLOGY FOR EVALUATION OF CULTURAL RESOURCES
The following definitions are common terms used to discuss the regulatory requirements and
treatment of cultural resources:
Cultural resources is the term used to describe several different types of properties: prehistoric
and historical archaeological sites; architectural properties such as buildings, bridges, and
infrastructure; and resources of importance to Native Americans.
Historic properties is a term defined by the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) as any
prehistoric or historic district, site, building, structure, or object included in, or eligible for inclusion
on, the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP), including artifacts, records, and material
remains related to such a property.
Historical resources as described in the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) includes
buildings, sites, structures, objects, or districts, each of which may have historical, prehistoric,
architectural, archaeological, cultural, or scientific importance, and is eligible for listing or is listed
in the California Register of Historical Resources (CRHR) or a local register of historical resources.
The CRHR includes resources listed in or formally determined eligible for listing in the NRHP, as well
as some California State Landmarks and Points of Historical Interest.
Paleontological resource is defined as including fossilized remains of vertebrate and invertebrate
organisms, fossil tracks and trackways, and plant fossils. A unique paleontological site would
include a known area of fossil-bearing rock strata.
4.9.1 EXISTING SETTING
PREHISTORY
Past archaeological studies of the eastern Sierra Nevada have documented an archaeological
chronology dating back almost 11,000 years, comprising four prehistoric phases. From most
recent to earliest, these are termed the Washoe/Kings Beach, Martis, Spooner, and Tahoe reach
prehistoric phases; each of these phases is characterized by collections of ground and flaked
stone artifacts, including projectile points and stone tools. The Kings Beach phase is commonly
divided into Early Kings Beach (AD 1250–650), and Late Kings Beach (1800–1250). Although not
precisely aligned chronologically, this phase sequences into the Proto-Historic/Late
Archaeologic period of California prehistory. The Martis Phase is divided into the Late (650 AD–
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2050 BC) and Early (2050–4050 BC); approximately corresponding to the Late Archaic and
Middle Archaic Periods of California prehistory. The Spooner Prehistoric Phase (3050–6050 BC)
corresponds approximately with the Early/Pre-archaic period of California prehistory. Artifacts
from this period are relatively sparse, which has led to difficulties in establishing dates for those
that have been found. The Tahoe Reach phase (6050–8050 BC) corresponds with the Late Pre-
archaic phase of California prehistory; artifacts from this phase are sparser even than those from
the Spooner Phase (Town of Truckee, 2006).
Between 7,000 and 2,000 years ago, there was a large increase in the physical evidence of
people in the Sierra Nevada area. Archaeological sites found from this period increase
dramatically from those found from previous periods. During this time period, populations
expanded into areas only minimally visited previously. The Late Archaic period began about
1,500 years ago and is considered to be the final time period of prehistoric occupation. More
distinctive local cultures and adaptations occurred. In the project area, the overall Lake Tahoe
area, and along the Truckee River, this time period is termed the Kings Beach Phase and
represents the Washoe ethnographic pattern (Jensen, 2002).
ETHNOGRAPHY
The project site is in the center of historic Washoe territory, with primary use by the northern
Washoe. Washoe territory encompassed the area between the Great Basin to the east and the
Sierra Nevada range area to the west. Their community lived a mobile lifestyle due to the
requirements of the seasons and increases and decreases of food sources. The Washoe often
spent the winter months at residential base camps, with several known to be located along the
Truckee River and Donner, Cold, and Martis creeks. During the spring season, younger members
of the community moved from the base camps in the valleys, including the Truckee area, to
Lake Tahoe to fish. By late spring and early summer, it is likely that all Washoe had gathered
around Lake Tahoe (Jensen, 2002).
The ethnographic record suggests that during the mild season, small groups traveled through high
mountain valleys collecting edible and medicinal roots, seeds, and marsh plants. In the higher
elevations, men hunted large game and trapped smaller mammals. The Truckee River and its
tributaries were important fisheries year-round. Suitable toolstone was quarried at various locales.
The Washoe have a tradition of making long treks across the Sierran passes for the purpose of
hunting, trading, and gathering acorns. These aboriginal trek routes, patterned after game trails,
were often the precursors of historic and modern road systems. Archaeological evidence of these
ancient subsistence activities are found along the mountain flanks. Even into the 20th century, the
Washoe were not completely displaced from their traditional lands (PMC, 2000).
HISTORY
Euroamerican contact with Native American groups living in coastal areas and the Central Valley
of California began during the last half of the 18th century. The Spanish period in California lasted
from about 1769 to 1821. This was a time when the Spanish missions dominated lives of both the
Spanish and the Native Americans in those areas in California. However, the effect of the Spanish
on the Washoe has not been documented. The Mexican Period (ca. 1821–1848) in California is an
outgrowth of the Mexican Revolution, and its accompanying social and political views affected
the mission system. Evidence exists to document that some of the Spanish and Mexican
expeditions and early trapping attempts may have traveled through and made short stays along
many of the major Sierra Nevada rivers. One of these expeditions was that of the Jedediah Strong
Smith party, which crossed the Walker pass in 1825–1826. In the 1830s, Joseph Reddeford Walker
led a party of trappers up the Truckee River from Nevada to California. Walker guided more
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immigrants through the pass to California in 1843, and in 1844, a larger incursion occurred by
members of the Stephens-Murphy-Townsend party. From the area of the Truckee River and Donner
Creek, one group, the famous ill-fated Donner Party, attempted to take wagons up Donner Valley
and cross the Sierra Nevada at Donner Summit during the winter of 1846–1847. This attempt at
crossing Walker Pass is memorialized at Donner Memorial State Park and Visitor’s Center, which is
located adjacent to the western side of the project site (Jensen, 2002).
The history of the Truckee community began with the arrival of Joseph Gray, who built a stage
station near the present-day downtown in 1863. Gray and George Schaffer constructed the area’s
first lumber mill in 1864, and other inns and commercial buildings were constructed at Donner
Lake’s east end. Gray was soon joined by a blacksmith named S. S. Coburn, and the fledgling
settlement of Gray’s Toll Station was renamed Coburn’s Station. This tiny way station grew from two
structures into a thriving town which accommodated emigrants, stagecoach travelers, and freight
wagons en route westward to California’s gold fields and eastward to the Comstock Lode in
Nevada. In 1868, Coburn’s Station was destroyed by fire and the name was changed to Truckee.
In the same year, the Central Pacific Railroad was constructed across Donner Pass to the newly
established Town of Truckee. The completion of the transcontinental railroad in 1868 gave rise to
other developments in transportation, lumber, ice, agriculture, and tourism, which were to
become the essential economic bases of Truckee. The right-of-way of this railroad (now the Union
Pacific) is located adjacent to the project site (Jensen, 2002; PMC, 2000; Town of Truckee, 2006).
Logging was first initiated in the Truckee-Donner area in 1859 and Truckee soon became one of
the major lumbering centers of the area. Overton (subsequently known as Hobart Mills), located
a few miles north of the project site, became the headquarters for the Sierra Nevada Wood and
Lumber Company’s operations. Here, mills were reconstructed and, during 1896, a new standard
gauge railroad was built between Hobart and Truckee to service the new facilities. Hobart Mills
closed in 1936, and subsequently the mill was dismantled and all activity along the narrow
gauge feeder lines and the standard gauge main line ceased (PMC, 2000).
Charcoal production formed an important adjunct to the lumber industry and thrived during the
latter part of the 19th century. With the completion of the railroad, Chinese immigrants began
working in the lumber industry, among other occupations. Such engagement forced immigrant
Chinese into direct competition with Euroamericans and immigrant groups, and the subsequent
anti-Chinese sentiment resulted in the expulsion of Chinese from Truckee in 1885. From 1860 to
1930, the dairy industry was successful in the Truckee Basin. The Joerger Ranch was one of the
larger operations. It is still a prominent landmark in Martis Valley and is located about 3 miles east
to southeast of the project site (Jensen, 2002; PMC, 2000; Town of Truckee, 2006).
Throughout most of the 19th century, Truckee thrived on the related fields of lumber, railroading,
and ice harvesting. By the 1920s, this industrial economy and society had largely disappeared,
due to the relocation of the train switching yard to Roseville, the depletion of local timber supplies,
and the development of mechanical refrigeration. In its place, the community began to develop
a recreation-based economy, boosted by the completion of a good state highway over Donner
Summit. The 1960 Winter Olympics at nearby Squaw Valley secured Truckee’s position as a center
point for year-round recreation. In 1993, Truckee was incorporated as a town. The name of the
town is said to derive from a Paiute Indian guide who, in 1844, assisted thousands of emigrants
migrating west across the Humboldt Sink. The Indian’s name was thought to sound like “Tro-kay” to
the immigrants, who called him “Truckee” (PMC, 2000; Truckee-Donner Historical Society, 2009).
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DONNER MEMORIAL STATE PARK
Donner Memorial State Park is located adjacent to the western side of the project site. The park
is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is also National Historic Landmark
#66000218. In addition, the park, along with the Donner (or Pioneer) Monument, is also listed on
the California Register of Historical Resources as California Historical Landmark #134. The park
memorializes the Donner Party’s 1846–1847 ill-fated attempt to travel over Walker Pass by wagon
and the resulting suffering and loss of life. This park offers opportunities for camping, picnicking,
boating, fishing, water-skiing, and hiking. In winter, visitors can cross-country ski and snowshoe on
trails. The park includes the Emigrant Trail Museum and Pioneer Monument, built to
commemorate those who emigrated to California from the east in the mid-1800s. Included in
the museum are displays and information about the Donner Party. The park encompasses
Scallenberger Ridge to the south of Donner Lake. The Pioneer Monument, Emigrant Museum,
and historical Murphy Cabin are located approximately 600 feet to the west of the western
boundary of the project site.
A general plan and EIR was prepared for the Donner Memorial State Park in 2003. The park is
described as follows in the general plan:
Donner Memorial State Park is an extremely important park with national
importance, for it contains the site of the Murphy and Breen-Keseberg cabins,
which together represent one of three camps established by the Donner Party
during the winter of 1846–1847. Due to its national significance, the area that
includes the cabins and Donner Memorial/Pioneer Monument (thought to be on
top of the Breen-Keseberg Cabin site) was designated a National Historic
Landmark in 1966, known as Donner Camp Sites.
The purpose of the park’s general plan is to “identify park-wide goals and guidelines to guide
the future development, management, and protection of park resources and visitor facilities, as
well as to determine the best location for a new museum/visitor center for the park and to
alleviate existing traffic conflicts in the park’s entrance area.” One of the park-wide planning
goals included in the general plan is regarding cultural resources and is to “ensure the highest
level of appropriate protection, stabilization, preservation, and interpretation of the park’s
significant cultural resources, focusing in areas of exceptional archaeological and historical
significance.” In addition, a natural resources goal for the park relates to buffers. The plan states,
“Buffers: Establish, maintain, and preserve buffers around existing significant park resources as
protection against adverse environmental impacts” (State of California, 2003).
PREVIOUS CULTURAL RESOURCE SURVEYS AND RESULTS
A records search was completed at the North Central Information Center at California State
University, Sacramento by Jensen and Associates (2002). An updated records search was
completed by Genesis Society in 2013. As part of the Archaeological Inventory Survey Surveys,
the following sources were also consulted:
• The National Register of Historic Places (1986, Supplements to 12/012008, and updates);
• The California Register of Historical Resources (2008 and updates);
• The California Inventory of Historic Resources (State of California, 1976);
• The California Historical Landmarks (State of California, 1990 and 1996);
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• The California Points of Historical Interest (May 1992 and updates);
• The Historic Property Data File (OHP, 2012);
• Determination of Eligibility (OHP, 2012);
• Caltrans Bridge Inventory;
• Historic General Land Office Plat maps;
• 1889 Truckee map;
• 1951 USGS 7.5-minute quad;
• Washoe Tribe of Nevada and California, contacted 6/18/02;
• The Truckee Museum, Truckee (by Lindstrom, 1998);
• The Native American Heritage Commission regarding sacred land, 6/10/02; and
• Existing published and unpublished documents relevant to regional environment,
prehistory, ethnography, and early historic developments in the vicinity.
The records search revealed that no archaeological resources have been recorded on or
immediately adjacent to the project site or in the immediate area one prehistoric site was
identified within the project site as a result of a previous archaeological survey. This site,
identified as CA-NEV-785, is located along Donner Creek. The site consists of an oval-shaped
prehistoric lithic scatter of basalt flakes located on a natural elevated flat. The site is identified by
a light surface scatter of basalt flakes (unmodified, circa 25–50 flakes were visible on the surface
at the time of initial recording) and at least two basalt primary decortications flakes or spent
cores. The scatter extends approximately 30 meters north–south by 75 meters east–west. Depth
of this deposit was not formally determined during the initial recordation, but scraping the
surface with a trowel occasionally revealed flakes located immediately beneath the surface,
indicating the possibility that a subsurface component may also be present. This is further
suggested by the fact that two similar sites, both containing subsurface components, are known
to exist on the opposite side of Donner Creek, a short distance downstream (east) of this site.
While no additional prehistoric features (no bedrock, mortars, petroglyphs, housepits) were
observed during site recordation, such features may be present below the surface.
The records search also resulted in a review of two additional archaeological surveys which had
evaluated approximately 90 percent of the project site. The surveys and their findings are as
follows:
1. Jones & Stokes 1992 Survey for the Cold Springs Project: This field survey included all of the
project site using widely spaced transects, due to the extensive disturbance of the property
which had been subjected to aggregate mining. The survey was modified to an intensive-
level survey. No previously unidentified cultural resources were found during this survey.
2. Susan G. Lindstrom 1998 Survey for the Cold Creek Line: An intensive-level pedestrian
survey was conducted along a linear corridor adjacent to the south side of Donner
Creek, within the northern portion of the project site. The survey covered about one-half
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of the only undisturbed portion of the property and did not identify any prehistoric or
early historic-period sites.
An archaeological survey was conducted in 2002 by Jensen & Associates as part of the
Archaeological Inventory Survey report prepared at that time. An intensive-level survey was
completed within the northern portion of the project site, within lands previously undeveloped
for gravel quarry and extraction and utilized primarily for residential use and construction of a
segment of sewer trunk line. In addition, a general-level survey was undertaken within the
remaining approximately 90 percent of the project site, which consisted of lands completely
recontoured and subjected to wholesale disturbance in conjunction with past gravel mining
activities. During the survey field work, it was noted that disturbance to the ground surface has
been substantial throughout approximately 90 percent of the project site, due to the gravel
mining operation which had been located there. Within the northern portion of the property, less
substantial ground surface impacts occurred due to the construction in 1962 and 1984 of two
residences and trenching for a sewer line.
An additional archaeological survey was conducted in 2013 by Genesis Society as part of the
updated Archaeological Inventory Survey report. During this updated survey, the entire project
site was subjected to intensive-level pedestrian survey. During the survey fieldwork, it was noted
that disturbance to the ground surface throughout approximately 90 percent of the site has
been substantial associated with a previous gravel mining operation. The northern portion of the
property was again observed to have less substantial ground surface impacts associated with
construction of two contemporary residences and associated road grading, trenching for a
sewer line, and placement of buried and overhead utilities. The prehistoric site CA-NEV-785
described previously was observed in the northern portion of the project site during this field
survey.
The 2002 Archaeological Inventory Survey also identified evidence of prehistoric occupation at
four locations within the northern portion of the project site. No additional evidence of
prehistoric use or activities was identified; therefore, all were considered to be “isolates.” The
Archaeological Inventory Survey identified Isolates as being categorically excluded as eligible or
potentially eligible for the National Register of Historic Places, since they do not minimally qualify
as “historic properties.” No evidence of historic-period activities or sites was identified on the
project site in either 2002 or 2013. Therefore, there are no known cultural resources found on the
project site.
NATIVE AMERICAN CONSULTATION
As part of the 2002 Archaeological Inventory Survey completed by Jensen and Associates, a
sacred lands search was requested from the Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC). The
results of the sacred lands search were received on June 14, 2002, and did not identify any
Native American sacred lands within the area of the project site. However, the NAHC noted that
“the absence of specific site information in the sacred lands file does not indicate the absence
of cultural resources in any project area.” The Washoe Tribe of California and Nevada was sent
a letter at that time requesting any information regarding Native American cultural resources
associated with the project site. The 2002 Archaeological Inventory Survey indicated that none
of the “individuals, groups, or agency sources supplied any information concerning known
sacred lands, sites, features, or traditional use/collection areas within the project area.” The
NAHC provided a letter to the Town of Truckee in response to the Notice of Preparation (NOP)
for this DEIR. The letter indicated that the NAHC completed another search of its sacred lands
records and did not locate any sites on the project site (NAHC, 2009). PMC staff, through written
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correspondence, contacted representatives of all tribes provided by the NAHC. To date, no
responses have been received.
PALEONTOLOGICAL SETTING
Paleontology is defined as a science dealing with the life of past geological periods as known
from fossil remains. Paleontological resources include fossil remains, as well as fossil localities and
formations that have produced fossil material. Such locations and specimens are important
nonrenewable resources. CEQA offers protection for these sensitive resources and requires that
they be addressed during the environmental impact report process.
A search of the University of California Museum of Paleontology paleontological database
conducted by PMC did not discover any previously identified paleontological resources on the
project site. The Nevada County search revealed that 59 paleontological localities have been
identified. Most of the project site has been mined for aggregate material and has been
substantially disturbed. Therefore, there is a potential for the inadvertent discovery of unique
archaeological resources during project-related ground-disturbing activities in the remaining
undisturbed portion of the project site (University of California, Berkeley, 2009).
4.9.2 REGULATORY FRAMEWORK
FEDERAL
National Register of Historic Places
The National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) is the nation’s master inventory of known historic
resources. The NRHP is administered by the National Park Service and includes listings of
buildings, structures, sites, objects, and districts that possess historic, architectural, engineering,
archaeological, or cultural significance at the national, state, or local level. Structures, sites,
buildings, districts, and objects over 50 years of age can be listed in the NRHP as significant
historic resources. However, properties under 50 years of age that are of exceptional
importance or are contributors to a district can also be included in the NRHP. The criteria for
listing in the NRHP include resources that:
a) Are associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad
patterns of history (events);
b) Are associated with the lives of persons significant in our past (persons);
c) Embody the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, or method of construction, or
that represent the work of a master, or that possess high artistic values, or that represent
a significant and distinguishable entity whose components may lack individual distinction
(architecture); or
d) Have yielded or may likely yield information important in prehistory or history (information
potential).
In addition to qualifying for listing under at least one of the National Register criteria, a property
must have historic integrity. The concept of integrity is essential to identifying the important
physical characteristics of historical resources and hence, in evaluating adverse changes to
them. Integrity is defined as “the authenticity of an historical resource’s physical identity
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evidenced by the survival of characteristics that existed during the resource’s period of
significance.” The seven aspects of integrity are:
• Location, the place where the historic property was constructed.
• Design, the combination of elements that create the form, plans, space, structure, and
style of the property.
• Setting, the physical environment of the historic property inclusive of the landscape and
spatial relationships of the building(s).
• Materials, the physical elements that were combined or deposited during a particular
period of time and in a particular pattern of configuration to form the historic property.
• Workmanship, the physical evidence of the crafts of a particular culture or people
during any given period in history.
• Feeling, the property’s expression of the aesthetic or historic sense of a particular period
of time.
• Association, the direct link between an important historic event or person and a historic
property.
STATE
California Register of Historic Resources
The California Register of Historical Resources (CRHR) is an inventory of significant architectural,
archaeological, and historical resources in the State of California. Like the National Register, a
property must be found significant within a historic context and retain sufficient historic integrity.
In order for a property to be eligible for listing in the California Register, it must be found
significant under one or more of the following criteria:
1) Events: Resources that are associated with events that have made a significant
contribution to the broad patterns of local or regional history, or the cultural heritage of
California or the United States.
2) Persons: Resources that are associated with the lives of persons important to local,
California, or national history.
3) Architecture: Resources that embody the distinctive characteristics of a type, period,
region, or method of construction, or represent the work of a master, or possess high
artistic values.
4) Information Potential: Resources or sites that have yielded or have the potential to yield
information important to the prehistory or history of the local area, California, or the nation.
The process of determining integrity is similar for both the California Register and the National
Register. The same seven aspects that define integrity for the National Register are applicable to
the California Register.
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State CEQA Guidelines
Under CEQA, public agencies must consider the effects of their actions on both “historical
resources” and “unique archaeological resources.” Pursuant to Public Resources Code (PRC)
Section 21084.1, a “project that may cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of
an historical resource is a project that may have a significant effect on the environment.”
Section 21083.2 requires agencies to determine whether proposed projects would have effects
on unique archaeological resources.
“Historical resource” is a term with a defined statutory meaning (PRC, Section 21084.1;
determining significant impacts to historical and archaeological resources is described in the
State CEQA Guidelines, Section 15064.5 [a], [b]). Under State CEQA Guidelines Section
15064.5(a), historical resources include the following:
1) A resource listed in, or determined to be eligible by the State Historical Resources
Commission, for listing in the California Register of Historical Resources (Public Resources
Code, Section 5024.1).
2) A resource included in a local register of historical resources, as defined in Section
5020.1(k) of the Public Resources Code or identified as significant in a historical resource
survey meeting the requirements of Section 5024.1(g) of the Public Resources Code, will
be presumed to be historically or culturally significant. Public agencies must treat any
such resource as significant unless the preponderance of evidence demonstrates that it
is not historically or culturally significant.
3) Any object, building, structure, site, area, place, record, or manuscript which a lead
agency determines to be historically significant or significant in the architectural,
engineering, scientific, economic, agricultural, educational, social, political, military, or
cultural annals of California may be considered to be a historical resource, provided the
lead agency’s determination is supported by substantial evidence in light of the whole
record. Generally, a resource will be considered by the lead agency to be historically
significant if the resource meets the criteria for listing in the California Register of Historical
Resources (Public Resources Code, Section 5024.1), including the following:
a) Is associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad
patterns of California’s history and cultural heritage;
b) Is associated with the lives of persons important in our past;
c) Embodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, region, or method of
construction, or represents the work of an important creative individual, or possesses
high artistic values; or
d) Has yielded, or may be likely to yield, information important in prehistory or history.
4) The fact that a resource is not listed in, or determined to be eligible for listing in the California
Register of Historical Resources, not included in a local register of historical resources
(pursuant to Section 5020.1(k) of the Public Resources Code), or identified in a historical
resources survey (meeting the criteria in Section 5024.1(g) of the Public Resources Code)
does not preclude a lead agency from determining that the resource may be an historical
resource as defined in Public Resources Code Section 5020.1(j) or 5024.1.
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As noted above, CEQA also requires lead agencies to consider whether projects will impact
unique archaeological resources. Public Resources Code Section 21083.2, subdivision (g), states
that “ ‘unique archaeological resource’ means an archaeological artifact, object, or site about
which it can be clearly demonstrated that, without merely adding to the current body of
knowledge, there is a high probability that it meets any of the following criteria:
• Contains information needed to answer important scientific research questions and that
there is a demonstrable public interest in that information.
• Has a special and particular quality such as being the oldest of its type or the best
available example of its type.
• Is directly associated with a scientifically recognized important prehistoric or historic
event or person.”
TOWN OF TRUCKEE GENERAL PLAN
The Town of Truckee General Plan contains goals and policies in the Community Character
Element that are related to historic and cultural resource issues. Draft EIR Appendix B analyzes
the proposed project’s consistency with applicable Town of Truckee General Plan policies. While
this DEIR analyzes the proposed Coldstream Specific Plan’s consistency with the Town of Truckee
General Plan pursuant to CEQA Section 15125(d), the Town of Truckee Town Council will
ultimately make the determination of the project’s consistency with the General Plan.
Environmental impacts associated with inconsistency with General Plan policies are addressed
under the appropriate impact discussion sections of this Draft EIR.
4.9.3 PROJECT IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES
STANDARDS OF SIGNIFICANCE
Following Public Resources Code (PRC) Sections 21083.2 and 21084.1, and Section 15064.5 and
Appendix G of the State CEQA Guidelines, cultural resource impacts are considered to be
significant if implementation of the project considered would result in any of the following:
1) Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource as
defined in PRC Section 21084.1 and CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.5, respectively.
2) Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of an archaeological resource
as defined in PRC Sections 21083.2, 21084.1, and CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.5,
respectively.
3) Directly or indirectly destroy a unique paleontological resource or site or unique
geological feature.
4) Disturb any human remains, including those interred outside of formal cemeteries.
State CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.5 defines “substantial adverse change” as physical
demolition, destruction, relocation, or alteration of the resource or its immediate surroundings
such that the significance of an historical resource is materially impaired.
CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.5, subdivision (b) (2), defines “materially impaired” for purposes
of the definition of substantial adverse change as follows:
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The significance of an historical resource is materially impaired when a project:
1) demolishes or materially alters in an adverse manner those physical
characteristics of an historical resource that convey its historical
significance and that justify its inclusion in, or eligibility for, inclusion in the
California Register of Historical Resources; or
2) demolishes or materially alters in an adverse manner those physical
characteristics that account for its inclusion in a local register of historical
resources pursuant to section 5020.1(k) of the PRC or its identification in an
historical resources survey meeting the requirements of section 5024.1(g)
of the PRC, unless the public agency reviewing the effects of the project
establishes by a preponderance of evidence that the resource is not
historically or culturally significant; or
3) demolishes or materially alters in an adverse manner those physical
characteristics of a historical resource that convey its historical
significance and that justify its eligibility for inclusion in the California
Register of Historical Resources as determined by a lead agency for
purposes of CEQA.
CEQA requires that if a project would result in an effect that may cause a substantial adverse
change in the significance of a historical resource, or would cause significant effects on a
unique archaeological resource, then alternative plans or mitigation measures must be
considered. Therefore, prior to assessing effects or developing mitigation measures, the
significance of cultural resources must first be determined. The steps that are normally taken in a
cultural resources investigation for CEQA compliance are as follows:
• Identify potential historical resources and unique archaeological resources;
• Evaluate the eligibility of historical resources; and
• Evaluate the effects of the project on eligible historical resources
METHODOLOGY
Efforts to identify cultural resources which could be affected by the proposed Coldstream
Specific Plan included review of the Archaeological Inventory Survey (Jensen, 2002) completed
for the project and the records search completed for that report as well as the updated 2013
Archaeological Inventory Survey (Genesis Society) and associated records search. In addition, a
sacred lands file search was completed by the NAHC, and Native American representatives
were mailed written correspondence requesting information regarding cultural resources on
July 21, 2009. A search of the University of California Museum of Paleontology (UCMP) collections
database was also completed. The potential impacts of the proposed project on cultural
resources were evaluated by considering both construction and operational impacts.
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Coldstream Specific Plan Town of Truckee
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4.9-12
PROJECT IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES
Substantial Adverse Change in the Significance of a Historical Resource
Impact 4.9.1 The proposed Coldstream Specific Plan could result in a substantial adverse
change in the significance of a historical resource. This impact is considered
less than significant.
The proposed project would not affect any historical buildings or sites located on the project site
as no historical resources have been identified on-site. However, Donner Memorial State Park is
located adjacent to the western boundary of the project site. The park is listed on both the
National Register of Historic Places and the California Register of Historical Resources. The
proposed project includes potential off-site trails along the northern boundary of Donner
Memorial State Park, along Donner Pass Road. Off-site trails along Donner Memorial State Park
are not expected to result in any impact to the park, because the trails would be located within
the existing right-of-way for Donner Pass Road and no resources were identified during field
review of the trail alignment. The project would have no direct impacts on the park; thus, this
impact would be less than significant.
Mitigation Measures
None required.
Substantial Adverse Change in the Significance of an Archaeological Resource
Impact 4.9.2 Implementation of the proposed Coldstream Specific Plan could potentially
destroy or damage undiscovered prehistoric and historical cultural resources
on the project site. This impact is considered potentially significant.
As described previously, one prehistoric site was identified. This site, identified as CA-NEV-785,
consists of an oval-shaped prehistoric lithic scatter of basalt flakes located on a natural elevated
flat. While no additional prehistoric features (no bedrock mortars, petroglyphs, housepits) were
observed during site recordation, such features may be present below the surface. The
Archaeological Inventory Survey prepared for the project (2013) concluded that this site is
considered potentially eligible for the National Register of Historic Places because the potential
subsurface/midden deposits have not yet been evaluated. No evidence of other prehistoric or
historic archaeological sites has been identified for the project site.
Due to the presence of prehistoric sites on and near the project site, there is the potential for
additional However, unanticipated archaeological resources could to be encountered during
construction, as a prehistoric site has been identified near the project site. The Archaeological
Inventory Survey (Jensen, 2002) stated that “the present evaluation and recommendations are
based on the findings of an inventory-level surface survey only. T[t]here is always the possibility that
potentially significant unidentified cultural materials could be encountered on or below the
surface during the course of future development or construction activities. In such a situation,
archaeological consultation should be sought immediately.” This investigation did not identify any
archaeological resources on the project site. However, thereTherefore, there is a possibility of
unanticipated and accidental archaeological discoveries during project-related ground-
disturbing activities. Potential disturbance of the prehistoric site located on the project site as well
as Unanticipatedunanticipated and accidental archaeological discoveries during project
implementation have the potential to affect significant archaeological resources, resulting in a
potentially significant impact.
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October 2013 Partially Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report
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Mitigation Measures
•
MM 4.9.2a Prior to any ground disturbances or construction within 20 feet of the
archaeological site CA-NEV-785, the following mitigation shall be
accomplished:
•
All land disturbance and construction shall avoid site CA-NEV-785 and a
buffer area of 20 feet around the perimeter of the site shall be established.
•
A Historic Properties Treatment Plan shall be completed using the
Archaeological Testing and Data Recovery Approach outlined in the
Archaeological Inventory Survey prepared for the proposed project
(Genesis Society, 2013) which is included as Section 4.9.5 of the Draft EIR.
•
Prior to initiation of ground-disturbing activities, formal archaeological
testing of the prehistoric site shall be completed as well as evaluation of
the significance of any cultural materials encountered during any formal
archeological testing in accordance with the recovery methods and
analytical techniques and approaches described in the Archaeological
Inventory Survey.
Upon completion of formal archaeological testing or any mitigative-level
data recovery excavations recommended on the basis of testing results,
initial ground-disturbing impacts to untested portions of the prehistoric site
shall be monitored per the specifics identified in the Monitoring Plan of the
Archaeological Inventory Survey, included in Section 4.9.5 of the Draft EIR.
Monitoring shall ensure that any inadvertent discoveries of previously
undocumented and unknown cultural materials encountered are
evaluated and that an appropriate level of data recovery is undertaken
in the event of such a discovery. Monitoring shall involve one or more
archaeologists (depending on the number of pieces of equipment
operating at once) during initial land clearing, grading, and other ground-
disturbing impacts at the site or within the 20-foot buffer and shall include
the presence of a Native American representative.
Timing/Implementation: As a condition of project approval, and
implemented during project construction for
each phase
MM 4.9.2b If, during the course of construction, cultural resources (i.e., prehistoric sites,
historic sites, exotic rock [non-native], or unusual amounts of shell or bone,
isolated artifacts, or other features) are discovered, work shall be halted
immediately within a 200-foot radius of the discovery, the Town of Truckee
Community Development Department shall be notified, and a professional
archaeologist that meets the Secretary of the Interior’s Professional
Qualifications Standards in prehistoric or historical archaeology shall be
retained to determine the significance of the discovery. Determination of
impacts, significance, and mitigation shall be made by a qualified
archaeologist (in consultation with recognized local Native American groups, if
the resources are of Native American association). Prior to the commencement
Monitoring/Enforcement: Town of Truckee Planning Division
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4.9-14
of project excavations, all construction personnel shall be informed of the
potential to inadvertently uncover cultural resources and human remains and
the procedures to follow subsequent to an inadvertent discovery of cultural
resources or human remains.
Timing/Implementation: As a condition of project approval, and
implemented during project construction for
each phase
Monitoring/Enforcement: Town of Truckee Planning Division
Implementation of mitigation measures MM 4.9.2a and MM 4.9.2b would involve the evaluation
and proper treatment and protection of discovered and undiscovered archaeological artifacts
and thereby, minimize any potential adverse effects to historic properties or undiscovered
archaeological resources. Implementation of these measures would result in a less than
significant impact to archaeological resources. Implementation of mitigation measure MM 4.9.2
would reduce potential impacts associated with substantial adverse change in the significance
of an undiscovered archaeological resource to less than significant.
Destroy a Unique Paleontological Resource or Geological Feature
Impact 4.9.3 Approval of the proposed Coldstream Specific Plan could result in the potential
disturbance of paleontological resources (i.e., fossils and fossil formations) on
the project site. This is considered a potentially significant impact.
A search of the University of California Museum of Paleontology paleontological database
conducted by PMC did not identify any previously identified paleontological resources on the
project site, but there is a potential for the inadvertent discovery of unique archaeological
resources during ground-disturbing project activities.
Mitigation Measures
MM 4.9.3 A note shall be placed on the improvement plans stipulating that if
paleontological resources are discovered on-site, the applicant shall retain a
qualified paleontologist to observe grading activities and salvage fossils as
necessary. The paleontologist shall establish procedures for paleontological
resource surveillance and shall establish, in cooperation with the project
developer, procedures for temporarily halting or redirecting work to permit
sampling, identification, and evaluation of fossils. If major paleontological
resources are discovered, which require temporarily halting or redirecting of
grading, the paleontologist shall report such findings to the project developer,
and to the Town of Truckee Community Development Department. The
paleontologist shall determine appropriate actions, in cooperation with the
project developer, which ensure proper exploration and/or salvage.
Timing/Implementation: As a condition of project approval, and
implemented during project construction for
each phase
Monitoring/Enforcement: Town of Truckee Planning Division
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October 2013 Partially Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report
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Implementation of mitigation measure MM 4.9.3 would reduce impacts associated with
destruction of a unique paleontological resource or geological feature to less than significant.
Disturb Human Remains
Impact 4.9.4 No evidence of human remains has been identified for the project site.
However, human remains could be encountered during construction. This is
considered a potentially significant impact.
Archaeological investigations completed for the project site are adequate to identify known
prehistoric and historic resources in the area. No evidence of prehistoric or historic archaeological sites
or human remains has been identified for the project site. However, construction could result in
encountering human remains, as there is a possibility of unanticipated and accidental archaeological
discoveries during project-related ground-disturbing activities. Unanticipated and accidental
archaeological discoveries during project implementation have the potential to affect significant
archaeological resources, including human remains, and result in a potentially significant impact.
Mitigation Measures
MM 4.9.4 If human remains are discovered, all work shall be halted immediately within
a 200-foot radius of the discovery, the Town of Truckee Community
Development Department shall be notified, and the County Coroner must be
notified, according to Section 5097.98 of the State Public Resources Code
and Section 7050.5 of California’s Health and Safety Code. If the remains are
determined to be Native American, the coroner will notify the Native
American Heritage Commission, and the procedures outlined in CEQA
Section 15064.5(d) and (e) shall be followed.
Timing/Implementation: As a condition of project approval, and
implemented during project construction for
each phase
Monitoring/Enforcement: Town of Truckee Planning Division
Implementation of mitigation measure MM 4.9.4 would reduce impacts associated with
potential disturbance of human remains to less than significant.
4.9.4 CUMULATIVE SETTING, IMPACTS, AND MITIGATION MEASURES
CUMULATIVE SETTING
The cumulative setting for cultural resources generally consists of past, present, and future
development projects in the Town of Truckee and the region. In particular, this cumulative
setting includes the proposed and approved projects identified in Table 4.0-2 and 4.0-3,
planned development under both the Town of Truckee Land Use Element of the General Plan
and planned and proposed land uses in Nevada County and Placer County communities near
the town. Cumulative impacts associated with cultural resources would occur from increased
development. Continued growth in the region would contribute to potential conflicts with
cultural and paleontological resources. These resources include archaeological resources
associated with Native American activities and historic resources associated with settlement and
economic development.
4.9 HISTORIC AND CULTURAL RESOURCES
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Partially Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report October 2013
4.9-16
CUMULATIVE IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES
Cumulative Impacts to Prehistoric and Historic Resources and Human Remains
Impact 4.9.5 Implementation of the proposed Coldstream Specific Plan, in combination
with foreseeable development in the surrounding area, could result in the
disturbance of cultural resources (i.e., prehistoric sites, historic sites, and
isolated artifacts and features) and human remains. This impact is considered
cumulatively considerable.
Implementation of the proposed project may contribute to the cumulative loss of prehistoric
resources, historic resources, and human remains in the region. This contribution is expected to be
considerable, when combined with other past, present, and foreseeable development in the area.
Mitigation Measures
Implementation of mitigation measures MM 4.9.2a, MM 4.9.2b, and MM 4.9.4 would assist offset
project impacts in reducing significant impacts to known and unknown prehistoric and historic
resources and human remains. Therefore, the proposed Coldstream Specific Plan’s contribution to
impacts related to prehistoric and historic cultural resources and human remains would be less
than cumulatively considerable.
Cumulative Impacts to Paleontological Resources
Impact 4.9.6 Implementation of the proposed Coldstream Specific Plan, along with any
foreseeable development in the surrounding area, could result in the
potential disturbance of paleontological resources (i.e., fossils and fossil
formations). This impact is considered cumulatively considerable.
Implementation of the proposed project may contribute to the cumulative loss of
paleontological resources in the region. This contribution is expected to be considerable, when
combined with other past, present, and foreseeable development in the region.
Mitigation Measures
Implementation of mitigation measure MM 4.9.3 would assist in reducing significant cumulative
impacts to known and unknown paleontological resources. Therefore, cumulative impacts
related to paleontological resources would be reduced to less than cumulatively considerable.
4.9.5 HISTORIC PROPERTIES TREATMENT PLAN
ARCHAEOLOGICAL TESTING AND DATA RECOVERY APPROACH
Research Guidelines: There are a number of implications of the culture historical models and
other information presented above (see discussion of prehistory, ethnography) for evaluating
the significance of cultural materials encountered during any formal archaeological testing.
Three primary research domains are relevant for prehistoric sites, each with a number of specific
research questions by means of which the data from these sites could be evaluated.
(1) Site Function: One series of questions relevant to the project area relates to the type of
subsistence and/or other activities undertaken during prehistoric times, and the relation of
cultural material types to other sites located nearby. Relevant questions include:
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October 2013 Partially Revised Draft Environmental Impact Report
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a) What activities occurred at the sites, based on artifacts, lithic debris and midden
constituents, and which appear to be the most important?
b) Is there evidence for intra-site patterning of artifactual and other materials in terms of
distinct activity areas, or is the distribution of artifacts/features essentially random and un-
patterned, or has the patterning been destroyed or compromised by activities
associated with ranching (such as vegetation clearing and tree removal and road
grading), mining, or past vandalism and pot hunting?
c) How does the artifact assemblage at this site compare with regional sites in terms of
function?
d) Are innovative means of artifact production evident, or are there changes through time
in technology associated with implement manufacture or resource procurement, trade,
importation, or processing?
e) What is the depth of cultural deposits at this site, including deposits within any buried
features encountered, and is there measurable change in the relative frequencies of
artifacts and midden constituents related to depth? If so, what are the possible temporal
(or cultural) implications of these changes?
(2) Temporal Patterns: One of the keys to an adequate understanding of regional prehistory
rests with chronological control over a sample of regional sites. Various chronological sequences
have been proposed for this portion of the Sierra Nevada, derived from sites located within
diverse environmental areas ranging from Lake Tahoe, Martis Valley, lands to the east within the
western Great Basin, and lands to the west along the Yuba River. Specific research questions
directed at understanding temporal patterns would include:
a) What is an estimate of the length of occupation of this site based on the cultural
materials encountered, and is it likely that further chronometric and stratigraphic
analyses would provide significant additional chronological information for this site?
b) Was this site likely to have been occupied continuously, or are recurring episodes of use
suggested by sterile layers present in stratigraphic sequences that might be present?
c) What time markers (esp. projectile point styles, beads) are present which can be
correlated to local and regional sequences? Can the indicated temporal range be
refined or can new “horizon markers” be justified on the basis of unique artifact styles
present?
(3) Settlement, Land Use and Subsistence Patterns: Settlement pattern distribution is an integral
component of the conjunctive approach in archaeology. The ultimate goal of such studies is to
provide a means of summarizing exploitative strategies and changes in these strategies through
time. Such changes may be registered as variation in the distribution of archaeological site types
and feature complexes within a circumscribed geographic area. Consequently, successful
settlement pattern analysis requires the development and application of accurate functional
typologies for sites (Question 1, above), and reliable temporal controls (Question 2, above). In
order to further evaluate the nature and intensity of occupation at a particular site, several
additional questions may be appropriate, depending on the nature of the cultural materials
exposed:
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4.9-18
a) Are cultural remains reflecting the full range of traditional Washoe domestic activities
represented, or is only a restricted range of domestic activities indicated?
b) Is there evidence for intensive exploitation of a wide range of local resources, as would
be indicated by quantities of fish bone, deer and other mammal bone, or associated
recovery and processing technologies?
The objective is to utilize these questions as a guide in assessing the information and research
values represented by cultural materials present at the project area site that might be subjected
to formal archaeological testing, depending on final development actions for the Coldstream
Specific Plan. Once the types of data actually present have been determined, then a
conclusion can be reached as to the specific research or other values of the identified cultural
materials in addressing questions and issues of local and regional consequence, such as those
enumerated above.
Recovery Methods, and Analytical Techniques and Approaches: Data for addressing the
research topics outlined above is derivable from excavation and laboratory analyses of
recovered artifactual materials and non-artifactual constituents, and architectural details of any
potential dwelling (house pit) construction. Already available for this site that could be tested is
inventory-level archaeological survey data as well as additional information concerning
prehistoric sequences and other relevant information derived from test excavation at other sites
in Nevada, and adjacent Plumas and Placer counties. Based on the research objectives
detailed above, the following collection and evaluation tasks are considered appropriate for
the one prehistoric site within the APE which might be subjected to testing/data recovery
excavation:
a) Excavation of 1-meter-square exposures and in arbitrarily-defined 10 cm levels,
conducted with hand tools (i.e., trowels, mattocks, dental instruments, whisk brooms, rock
hammers, shovels, etc.) with all recovered material screened through 1/4” mesh, unless
very small objects (e.g., beads, small historic artifacts) are observed, in which case
screening would shift to 1/8” mesh. Screen devices include standard wood-framed and
metal screened shakers. It is recommended that from four to ten (potentially more) test
units be placed within the midden areas at any tested site. Units would be placed on an
intuitive basis, and would consider surface disturbance, trees and other vegetation, and
any other features (surface or subsurface) that might interfere with obtaining adequate
data. Stratigraphic profiles would be documented for each of the test units, and any
features (house pits, hearths, burials, etc.) encountered would be mapped in situ, and
photographed.
b) Submission of charcoal samples for radiocarbon analysis if material is recovered in
suitable quantities and in sufficiently undisturbed contexts to warrant evaluation.
Recovered samples would likely be delivered to Beta Analytic in Miami, Florida, where
Carbon 13/Carbon 12 ratios would be established to arrive at a conventional
radiocarbon date for each sample.
c) Evaluation of recovered cultural material in relation to local and regional typologies for
various types of formed artifacts that might be recovered. Based on the results of
recovery efforts at nearby sites, forms of artifacts likely to be recovered include: lithic
debitage, scrapers, burins, knives, projectile points, groundstone implements, etc. Sorting
of recovered cultural material would occur within the laboratory setting, where the
assemblage from each level of each unit would be subjected to cleaning and initial
sorting. All artifacts would be subjected to detailed measuring, with data categories
4.9 HISTORIC AND CULTURAL RESOURCES
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4.9-19
assigned appropriately, and finally assigned a unique accession number. The totality of
the assemblage would be examined for intra-site and temporal variability. The purpose
of this latter task would provide data necessary to address research objectives.
d) Preparation of a final report, to proceed in conformity with standard professional
practices, designed to detail the information and research values of recovered cultural
material. The report would include appropriate recommendations for any additional
data recovery justified on the basis of the specific findings of formal testing, since testing
would represent the initial subsurface evaluation undertaken (excepting any shovel test
pit evaluation deemed appropriate and implemented in conjunction with and prior to
test unit excavation). For the testing or data recovery program and report, recovered
cultural material would be accessioned and the final report would include illustration of
representative examples of formed artifact types, including especially diagnostic
projectile points, beads, and other artifact types.
• All materials recovered during the project would be considered the real property
of the property owner/project proponent, and would be returned to the property
owner along with a copy of the final report for permanent curation. The
landowner intends to place any recovered cultural materials at an appropriate
facility for permanent curation. The landowner, in consultation with the Army
Corps of Engineers (ACOE) and interested Native American tribes, will determine
the location for curation and develop a formal curation plan prior to completion
of the data recovery effort.
• Excavation would be planned and proceed in consultation with local Native
American representatives. As part of the federal Section 106 process, the ACOE
will communicate with these representatives, and conduct formal government-
to-government consultation with federally-recognized Tribes if requested. The
goal of these communications is to obtain information about historic properties
which may be of religious or spiritual significance.
MONITORING PLAN
Upon completion of formal archaeological testing or any mitigative-level data recovery
excavations, initial ground-disturbing impacts to untested portions of the project area site
recommended eligible for the National Register would be monitored. Monitoring would involve
one or more archaeologists (depending on the number of pieces of equipment operating at
once) during initial land “grubbing”, grading and other ground-disturbing impacts at and within
a 20 ft radius of the site, and would include the presence of a Native American representative.
The Native American representative present during this task would be selected as part of the
federal Section 106 consultation process.
The goal of monitoring would be to ensure that any inadvertent discoveries of previously
undocumented and unknown cultural materials encountered are evaluated and that an
appropriate level of data recovery be undertaken in the event of such a discovery. An
“appropriate level of data recovery” would be based on the general research guidelines, and
recovery and analytical techniques and approaches, as detailed above under Archaeological
Testing and Data Recovery Approach.
4.9 HISTORIC AND CULTURAL RESOURCES
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4.9-20
REFERENCES
Genesis Society. 2013. Archaeological Inventory Survey, Proposed Coldstream Development
Project, c. 178.9-acres, Town of Truckee, Nevada County, California.
Jensen & Associates. 2002. Archaeological Inventory Survey, Cold Creek Residential and
Commercial Development Project, c. 178 acres in West Truckee at Cold and Donner
Creeks, Nevada County, California. June 28, 2002, Revised July 29, 2002.
Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC). 2009. Letter from Katy Sanchez to Jenna Endres,
Town of Truckee, dated June 12, 2009.
PMC. 2000. Planned Community-2 Specific Plan, Draft Environmental Impact Report.
State of California, Department of Parks and Recreation. 2003. Donner Memorial State Park.
General Plan.
———. 2009. http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=503 (accessed August 20, 2009).
Town of Truckee. 1997. Downtown Truckee Specific Plan.
———. 2006. 2025 General Plan EIR. Truckee, CA.
Truckee-Donner Historical Society. 2009. http://truckeehistory.org/historyArticles/history2.htm
(accessed August 18, 2009).
University of California, Berkeley, Museum of Paleontology. 2009. http://ucmpdb.berkeley.edu/
loc.html (accessed August 20, 2009).