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Home My WebLink About09/15/2009, B3 - ADOPTION OF THE CONSERVATION PLAN FOR STENNER SPRINGS NATURAL RESERVE Council '�Ths jo j aGenaa aepoat CITY O F SAN LUIS O B I S P O FROM: Shelly Stanwyck, Assistant City Administrative Officer Prepared By: Neil Havlik, Natural Resources Manager �.{� SUBJECT: ADOPTION OF THE CONSERVATION PLAN FOR STENNER SPRINGS NATURAL RESERVE RECOMMENDATION As recommended by the Planning Commission and the Parks and Recreation Commission: 1. Approve a resolution adopting the Conservation Plan for Stenner Springs Natural Reserve as amended; and 2. Approve a Mitigated Negative Declaration of environmental impact for the Plan. DISCUSSION Background In 2003 the City Council approved the document called "Conservation Guidelines for City- Owned Open Space Lands" to provide consistent policy direction for the management and use of city-owned open space lands. Since that time, City Natural Resources staff have been preparing and implementing "Conservation Plans" for those lands. The Stenner Springs Natural Reserve Conservation Plan is the sixth plan of this type to be prepared and submitted to the Council. Adoption of the Conservation Plan for the Stenner Springs Natural Reserve (SSNR) will guide the management and development of the Reserve over the next five to seven years. SSNR consists of four parcels of land, totaling 363 acres, which lie four miles north of the City of San Luis Obispo. It is bounded by the public lands of Camp San Luis Obispo, Los Padres National Forest, and Cal Poly on the northwest, north, east, and south, and by the privately owned Stenner Ranch on the southwest (Attachment 1 — Vicinity Map). It consists of a portion of the West Cuesta Ridge which extends northwesterly from Cuesta Grade all the way to Highway 41 east of Morro Bay. Historically the properties were owned by Southern Pacific (later Union Pacific) Railroad, and were utilized as a water source for steam locomotives, and for limited livestock grazing. The property is referred to as Stenner Springs because of the numerous natural springs there which flow into Stenner Creek and a perennial stream that flows from this site through the Cal Poly campus, as well as several ranch properties into the City of San Luis Obispo. In 2000, the City of San Luis Obispo purchased the first of the four parcels. The other three parcels were purchased by the Land Conservancy in 2006, and donated to the City of San Luis Obispo in 2007. Parcels 2 and 3 lie within the boundaries of Los Padres National Forest, and Parcel 4 lies G/Havlik/Councilagendc/Stenner Springs CP adoption PO Conservation Plan for Stenner Springs Natural Reserve Page 2 within the boundaries of Camp San Luis Obispo. Parcel 4 is jointly owned in an undivided 50% ownership by the City of San Luis Obispo and the State of California. General Plan Conformity The General Plan has several areas where use and management of open space is addressed: The Conservation and Open Space Element (COSE); the Parks and Recreation Element (P&R) are where the most pertinent policy direction is found. The list below is not exhaustive but demonstrates how the SSNR plan addresses conformity with the General Plan. COSE Policy 8.5.5: Passive Recreation — The City will consider allowing passive recreation where it will not degrade or significantly impact open space resources. The Conservation plan addresses this policy by addressing existing unauthorized trails, placing new trails (including the "skills area") in places that avoid sensitive portions of the site, and by altering the existing cattle grazing operation to minimize impacts to the area and its resources. COSE Program 8.7.1E.- Protect Open Space Resources —The City will manage its open space holdings and enforce its open space easements consistent with General Plan goals and policies and the Open Space Ordinance. The Conservation plan implements this program by calling for certain actions to restore or enhance the oak woodlands, riparian areas, and wetlands on the site, and to curtail environmental damage occurring from unauthorized and improperly installed trails. COSE Program 8.7.2J: Enhance and Restore Open Space - The City will ...adopt conservation plans for open space areas under City easement or fee ownership. The plans shall include a resource inventory, needs analysis, acceptable levels of change, grazing, monitoring, wildlife, management and implementation strategies, including wildfire preparedness plans. The Conservation plan implements this program by following the protocols and addressing the matters outlined in the COSE Policy described above. P&R Policy 2.6.9: Open Space shall be managed in such a manner as to allow for habitat conservation uses, for appropriate public uses and to maintain and enhance its environmental quality. By adopting a conservation plan for the SSNR, this policy is directly implemented. Conservation Plan Preparation Process The Stenner Springs Conservation Plan process began in June 2008 with a public workshop, attended by about ten persons. Several concerns were raised and desires of citizens and interest group were presented. These have been addressed in the proposed plan. The most significant item was the mountain bike "skills area" proposed by members of the mountain biking community. Following the workshop City staff investigated the natural and cultural resources within SSNR and those findings set the framework in which appropriate recreational features such as trails and the "skills area" could take place. Upon completion of the Conservation Plan and Mitigated Negative Declaration, the Plan was circulated to interested parties and to jurisdictional agencies at both the State and Federal level. G/Havtikkouncitagendn/Stenner Springs CP adoption r' Q� Conservation Plan for Stenner Springs Natural Reserve Page 3 The Conservation Plan document is organized into several sections, including inventory of the property, City goals and policies that provide plan direction, and discussion of the main features of the plan itself, and how the plan will generally be implemented. These sections are briefly summarized below. Important Natural and Cultural Features Except for Parcel 1, SSNR is fairly uniform in its natural features. The property consists mostly of chaparral, with some areas of grassland and oak woodland. There are also two eucalyptus groves on Parcels 1 and 2 totaling about four acres. Several small groves of the. native tree known as Sargent cypress occur on Parcels 3 and 4, and all parcels contain one or more small but rich springs and associated wetlands that have given the site its name. The underlying rocks are mostly serpentine, which has allowed the persistence of many notable and unusual plant species. A wide array of animal species use the property by virtue of its relatively undisturbed character Some of the more important or notable natural and cultural features include: 1. Rare serpentine soils with unique plant and animal communities; 2. Several natural springs, the largest of which is known to contain a small population of the endangered California red-legged frog 3. Several other habitat types, including oak woodland and a planted eucalyptus grove; 4. An important utility corridor for three separate water pipelines carrying portions of the water supplies for the City of San Luis Obispo, City of Morro Bay, and communities to the south as far as Santa Barbara; and 5. Remnants of use made by the former owners (Southern Pacific Railroad) as a water supply for steam locomotives crossing the Cuesta Grade; and 6. An historic cultural site on Parcel 4 just reported to staff by staff at Camp San Luis Obispo. Management issues or concerns Inventory and public input into the Conservation Plan process identified the major management issues associated with the property. These are centered on erosion problems arising from past road construction, improper and unauthorized trail installation, and pipeline installation. The main issues include: 1. Proper restoration and management of the agricultural use of the Reserve; 2. Erosion problems associated with unauthorized trails currently existing and on-going construction of the Nacimiento pipeline; 3. Proper development and functioning of the trail system to avoid sensitive areas (including the cultural site on Parcel 4) and maintain appropriate drainage patterns; 4. Problems with invasive or non-native species, especially thistles and eucalyptus; 5. The desire of the mountain biking community to utilize a portion of the Reserve as a "skills area" for technical mountain biking. 6. Proximity to wild land areas that may be prone to fire. G/Navlik/councilagenda/Srenner Springs CP adoption J '� Conservation Plan for Stenner Springs Natural Reserve Page 4 The Conservation Plan addresses these issues with the following programs: 1. Closure or re-routing of undesirable ordamaging trails; 2. Development of a formally identified trail system for pedestrians and bicyclists (this would include the proposed new trail connecting Parcel 4 with Parcel 2 if it permitted by Camp San Luis Obispo and the U. S. Forest Service); 3. Placement of protective fencing at identified locations within the Reserve to protect sensitive resources in those locations; 4. Undertaking control efforts on the thistles and eucalyptus trees, especially where the latter are impacting native woodlands; 5. Development of interpretive and informational signage to assist visitors. 6. Changing the livestock operation to an "grazing as needed" basis; and 7. Proper development, maintenance, and operation of the "skills area" by a qualified organization acceptable to the City of San Luis.Obispo. Mountain Bike Skills Area The key feature of the Conservation Plan is a provision to allow the establishment of a "skills area" as proposed by the mountain bikers' community. The Plan recommends that an identified area within the eucalyptus grove be set aside for such a facility, subject to conditions satisfactory to the City Council, and not actually undertaken by the City but rather by an "operating entity" capable of such management. Approximately 1,25 miles of new trail would be established, and slightly more than that would be closed. Where appropriate, the trails will include interpretive signage to explain sensitive ecosystems on the site. Similar to other open space improvements, the trails will be constructed with City staff aided by volunteer groups. Advisory Body Review and Public Comment On August 26, 2009, the City Planning Commission reviewed the proposed Conservation Plan and on September 2, 2009 the Parks and Recreation Commission reviewed it. Both bodies unanimously recommended that the City Council adopt the Conservation Plan, with minor modifications discussed at the Planning Commission meeting. The Planning Commission's modifications included assigning highest priority to protection of the sensitive sites, and allowing for other City projects to utilize SSNR if appropriate for mitigations. The Parks and Recreation Commission approved the Plan with the changes recommended by the Planning Commission. Two lengthy comment notes have been received outside of the hearings and have been responded to in Attachment 4. The primary comments received centered on the desirability (or undesirability) of the skills area (Don Dollar), and of further evaluation of cultural resources (Camp San Luis Obispo). It is possible that others may also be received prior to the Council meeting. If so, they will also be responded to and those responses provided to the Council in supplement communications. FISCAL IMPACT The fiscal impact of Conservation Plan implementation is considered minor. The mountain bike skills area, which would be the most costly item, is proposed to be undertaken by outside parties C/Havlikleouncilagenda/Stenner.Springs CP adoption 3 Conservation Plan for Stenner Springs Natural Reserve Page 5 under a City-approved arrangement. Mitigation efforts are being considered for the property, and those costs would be bome by the party undertaking the mitigation. Other cost items are relatively small and can be absorbed by the City's Natural Resources Program budget. They include trail construction (usually done with volunteer labor), and certain environmental enhancements such as check dams and other erosion control structures, and minor fencing to protect sensitive sites or to control unauthorized trail building or use. The level of Ranger Service patrol and maintenance is not expected to increase as a result of the implementation of the Conservation Plan. Staff visitation already occurs on a regular basis (one or two times per week), and this level is considered adequate to cover additional patrol and maintenance duties. If oak mitigation activities are added to Ranger responsibilities, this will occur under contract and will include funding to cover additional time spent at SSNR. ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW The Initial Study identified two areas where potential concerns exist:. The first is the potential for death or injury to a Federally protected endangered species, the California red-legged frog; the second is the potential for erosion from new or existing trails. These concerns are addressed by (1) ensuring that individuals involved in trail construction are educated about the occurrence of red-legged frogs in the area and what to do if individuals of this species are observed within a work area; and (2) by the inclusion of commonly used "Best Management Practices" in the construction of trails and other feature of the site. With incorporation of these provisions, potential impacts are mitigated to less than significant and an issuance of a Mitigated Negative Declaration is appropriate. If Camp San Luis Obispo and the Forest Service agree to participate in the Conservation Plan, then some additional environmental analysis to satisfy NEPA requirements will likely be necessary, particularly regarding the proposed new trail. The Conservation Plan assumes this will be the case as participation in the Plan provides benefits to both agencies. ALTERNATIVE The Council could reject the Conservation Plan. This is not recommended, since the plan has been reviewed by both the Planning Commission and Parks and Recreation Commission in public session, public testimony taken on the plan by both Commissions, and amendments recommended to clarify the plan or to accommodate concerns raised by citizens. Both Commissions supported the recommended Plan as amended by unanimous vote. ATTACHMENTS 1. Location Map 2. Copy of Stenner Springs Natural Reserve Conservation Plan 3. Initial Study 4. Comments and staff responses to comments received during the review process 5. Resolution to Adopt the Conservation Plan for SSNR. G/Havlik/councilagenda/Stenner Springs CP adoption ATTACHMEW I Stenner Springs Natural Reserve. Location Map r Ile FA .Z 7T, Ir _1 Ine Y.; �7 ,-yj 1 t -e, -a r S.-F J. N, )r L Wkl' l. p' Wl I IN J_ > L 7, Al CM OF rwMS omsvo -7 T3 '1 0 'XI IN Z\�C�j, J_ 'J "k, o C) _N oo. "'},�-'/ 0 Ym- \I �z, y�AyV 1'\.1� - �. 'F � 4� - �' e I r r�. _mmmmmNMNNKZ=======Miles Figure 1 0 0.5 1 2 3 B3 0 ATTACHMENT Draft Ile Natural Resources � L � w fir •.. y �yy�-.`�y Kl �y{/) W wy.�^t�I 't•f int- � "•1f` j"+�d'lr !1!� "' ;' y•f�"�'' }♦r�eaY.;�� yt�r.�,t+°�'�`7' f �J z '.-t7 Jy i� �'y .ti. 1�r�y;,•c.,��•\ C'�f� ' : AP. ��x .F'�, �'�� a'a � a'*�/ � t am �� yt4� l�J��ty �3 d^ + �N � �•' ��r �.n• � ,r }y'�('{Kr - - ,``: t S t+ r.,r�x !YF`' t �a(��. y:: .4e� � � ��'i n+�'i.''•-�.c�.' '�. If"-iv:t..'�."�': mss. '-a. � 'c.�_k:.' 'v~� T'�r.-h%�1 '� .\.F•,l -'�. j9~.,x.0-.�;:{rte« ?} Y t Protection Program City of San LUIS • .ispo . .0 Palm Street 11111ad San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 G 0 J ATTACHMENT Z- City of San Luis Obispo Natural Resources Protection Program www.slocity.org/naturalresources Stenner Springs Natural Reserve Draft Conservation Plan Neil Havlik, Ph.D. Natural Resources Manager 805-781-7211 Freddy Otte City Biologist 805-781-7511 Jennifer Lloyd Intern July 2009 2 8- r � ATTACHMENT 2 Stenner Springs Draft Conservation Plan .A e View of Southern Pacific Railroad tracks, Stenner Springs area in background, summer 1939. Photo by Robert H. McFarland — -- Same view as above (engine patched in for appearance), May, 2009. 3 [>3 ' l ATTACHMENT Z Stenner Springs Draft Conservation Plan Stenner Sprinas Natural Reserve Draft Conservation Plan Table of Contents Frontispiece...............................3 4.2 Land Designations 4.2.1 Habitat Area Executive Summary........................5 4.2.2 Management/Trail Corridor 1. Introduction ............................6 4.2.3 Restorative Area 1.1 History and use 1.2 Background S. Implementation Strategy .........23 1.3 Access 5.1 On-going Tasks 1.4 Legal Agreements 5.2 Addressing the Issues 5.3 Wildfire Preparedness Plan 2. Inventory..................................11 5.4 Livestock Grazing 2.1 Physical Features 2.2 General Description 6. Fiscal Statement ......................24 2.3 Cultural/Historic Resources 2.4 Geology and Soils 7. Monitoring ................................25 2.5 Water 2.6 Habitat Types Appendix A........................26 2.6.1 Chaparral/Coastal Scrub 2.6.2 Oak/Riparian Woodland Soils Map and Descriptions of Soil 2.6.3 Grassland Types 2.6.4 Eucalyptus Groves 2.6.5 Serpentine Outcrops Appendix B.........................32 2.6.6 Wetlands 2.6.7 Sargent Cypress Groves Lists of plant and animal species 2.7 Plants and Wildlife identified within SSNR 2.7.1 Plants 2.7.2 Animals Appendix C.........................44 3. Goals and Policies ................ 18 Resource maps showing occurrence 3.1 Goals of plant and animal species of 3.2 Public Participation concern 3.3 Resource Maps 3.4 Resource Enhancement/ Appendix D........................48 Mitigation Photo Monitoring points and Aerial 4. Conservation Plan .................19 Photo of Photo Point Locations 4.1 Naming 4 32�—1 b • ATTACHMENT Z Stenner Springs Draft Conservation Plan Executive Summary Management issues facing the SSNR include: proper level of public access and Stenner Springs Natural Reserve (SSNR) use level for recreation; possible inclusion of lies partially within and partially adjacent to a constructed "skills area" for mountain Los Padres National Forest, in Stenner bicyclists; erosion problems associated with Creek Canyon, about four miles north of the the existing access roads and improperly City of San Luis Obispo. It is bordered by constructed trails; protection and lands of the United States Forest Service, enhancement of sensitive species and Cal Poly, Camp San Luis Obispo, and habitats located on the property; private property commonly known as encroachment of non-native vegetation, Stenner Ranch. Elevations range from 900 (primarily eucalyptus and non-native to 2200 feet above sea level (Figure 1.) thistles); and planning for mitigation from the impacts of the Nacimiento pipeline The property occupies four legal parcels installation. which were acquired by the City of San Luis Obispo at different times and which have How the Conservation Plan Addresses some important differences among them. These Issues Therefore, reference will be made at times to one or more of the parcels where some The main activities in the Conservation Plan feature or issue applies to that parcel or include: parcels and not to others. Parcels 1, 2, and 3 have long been enjoyed for their hiking, 1. Controlling erosion problems resulting biking, outdoor education, and research from the causes stated above, including opportunities. In contrast, parcel 4 lies closing or rerouting certain trails; within the boundaries of Camp San Luis 2. Establishing a designated use program Obispo and has historically not been to include a defined "mountain bike skills accessible for public recreational use. area" adjacent to the main trail ("Shooters"); Important Natural Features 3. Discouraging access to Parcel 4 as required by the 2007 donation SSNR contains largely serpentine soils and agreement with the Land Conservancy, the unique plant communities associated except as may be permitted for a single therewith. The property is generally rugged, proposed trail by Camp San Luis Obispo steep and covered with dense brush and is by agreement; used primarily for watershed protection, and 4. Establishing a mitigation program to limited recreation. compensate for losses of oak trees and other features resulting from the SSNR contains several natural habitat types Nacimiento pipeline installation; and multiple sensitive and rare plant and 5. Converting the current livestock grazing animal species located on the property. operation to a seasonal, vegetation Serpentine bunchgrass, rock outcrops, management driven program; annual grasslands, wetland seeps (both 6. Undertaking a variety of habitat natural and artificial) and several small improvements, especially at the seeps perennial waterways are found on the and wetlands; property. 7. Controlling non-native vegetation which is spreading in some areas; Management Issues and Concerns 8. Establishing a series of photo-monitoring Associated with SSNR points to document baseline conditions and changes over time. 5 ATTACHMENT Z. Stenner Springs Draft Conservation Plan 1. Introduction brush and several Sargent cypress groves. This parcel lies within the The Stenner Springs Natural Reserve is boundaries of Camp San Luis Obispo a moderately-sized (363 acre) area in and is jointly owned by the City and the four parcels situated among the Los Camp. It is not currently accessible to Padres National Forest, lands of Camp the public due to its inclusion within the San Luis Obispo National Guard confines of the Camp. Reservation, lands of California State Polytechnic University and the privately The parcels are shown in Figure 2. It owned Stenner Ranch. The property lies should be noted that the four parcels lie 4 miles north of the City of San Luis in rugged, brushy terrain, and different Obispo (Fig. 1). maps show different boundaries for them, especially Parcels 3 and 4. This The land is referred to as Stenner is due perhaps to difficulties in actual Springs because of the numerous survey work that has been conducted in springs on the property which flow into the area over the years by different Stenner Creek, a perennial stream that parties. However, since the intervening flows from this site through the Cal Poly lands are also publicly owned, the campus and several ranch properties differences do not appear to be into the City of San Luis Obispo. significant from a land management standpoint, except at the easterly The property occupies four legal parcels boundary of Parcel 4, where Camp San which were acquired by the City of San Luis Obispo abuts Los Padres National Luis Obispo at two different times and Forest. It is uncertain whether Hill 1640, which have some important differences which features attractive views, is within among them. Therefore, in this plan, the Camp or not. However, in the reference will be made at times to one interest of proper land management, all or more of the parcels where some areas proposed for public use and feature or issue applies to that parcel or thought to possibly lie within the parcels and not to others. The parcels boundaries of either the Camp or the are: National Forest will be addressed through agreements with both of those Parcel 1. 49 acres acquired in 2000, agencies. and consisting of mostly grassland and the highest recreational activity levels; 1.1 History and Use Parcel 2. 77 acres acquired in 2007, and consisting of brush and some Stenner Springs Natural Reserve was woodland, as well as the west portal of formerly owned by Southern Pacific several water supply pipelines cutting Railroad Company. The property was through Cuesta Ridge at that point; important to the railroad company as a Parcel 3. 86 acres acquired in 2007 and reliable water supply for the steam consisting of serpentine chaparral with engines that used the tracks in this area scattered small groves and individuals until the 1960's. In 1998 Southern of the native Sargent cypress tree; and Pacific Railroad Company was Parcel 4. 151 acres acquired in 2007, purchased in its entirety by the Union consisting of some grassland but mostly Pacific Railroad Company, including the 6 B.� -1� ATTACHMENT 2 Stenner Springs Draft Conservation Plan Figure 1. Location of Stenner Springs Stenner Springs Natural Reserve- Location Map u ay , '1 Y ! ' I .l q1_� l y� � �'r r.• 3 1 ^r 1 :4 t � ' f t li • _ h . t � � Y• V. I �[�� 3�wn� t , ,•� .t 1 t 'J f ..�i � 4- �••' ih.,,... ?,'� tib.>' 1 � �. + ,\ I- ). .y � r `rL� rs ♦ L1C"t r� n B , � r .ti(,3 # x.. (\ � � _�. 'Y nr}.��'Yv w.i r fib. �t. 1 , �,`�� r �' f � r• 1 i t ..0 a��• .. r y,.t li / Jl>k.�t .n .r j /r/ � y ~f xv�. - ! 4 L 3 V U n ( y1• � r u♦s ♦♦� • F• .,�h ! �L: , it mac, 3 a✓ , ^41i� Y f 1 '• �..< n. _ 4j •.Y� t�;V.z.. �n��, ra'� �^�•, , v 1, r�.,-4 •Zt�1 tl �t 1. r " C !..'• '� i wry.`( � '• _ \ _ � n _ 'C �• 1 1. / .+.. ` Miles Figure 1 0 0.5 1 2 3 ATTACHMENT Z Stenner Springs Draft Conservation Plan Figure 2. Parcel Map Stenner Springs Natural Reserve i !_i ♦ r� J r / ..� Ir Ali / J � vfL� . �. r r �� ` •F �w�'7j�sa. �;.5�., `� r •.. t�'1: d ,_•��MIQ}L�l-•`~ 1`,-�/ "� 1i��7 Jy1!r ( �ylr. ._ rl\,\.Dv��•t+�lli.".n �i f�"`'l•' ''•ei ,1 � I r I"�.-:r_ T` � �y r � `1 /L '}. �;^ �t _r ! \ .r .•\i t1_ 1 ! 'i I1I I � �. t � t�.+ %.. /A( �.. Y .!l 1 r . . r Inr'`'+--•vrl� It •t . 1 •'1 ! -..-. ' '�`'• ' � I ' GI •��1111\ I� t?3.��1J1'Tu ti �r � r `` "..`��`,C' ��. r!'� /� 1 J r\ r rf1 i. �r 1� �E 1- !' t 'r•l 1 -•'� r 114. ' . ( I 1 It L 41 1 1�1� 1 :�` "'~! •1{' 1'+tih 7 r :, '�"_ r J,'r . I I •`_.. n--_ ? T1y'''?'•• ��. ��1S�f�JS %.1 �-�..'�r'{..•� �ala�._r:+Jr" ..�•y....�..:4.Sin.:.i\�'.\.`..r�v�` ��:a+ mil ��111 �-,..! _ r �- � -J — ' % •' ..tom`,. J6 l`j�:`, J ' -` :�- i r �.` ., r '` -' �,_�. ._t�:-.�./,,`\`�r f l.�r �i'•.q fC`',�\� 1'LF ," ; y+j rJ G7liS macc•• \ \ \x •. 'P r �.,_ '_";�\ l 4` � -. •.� i - .r !I� Ar r l 4 1..� r ter. _'.r`I I•lr i i t`r r y.ti,. } (,�y,i \t\ �'!I:tJ�:`'�.!1�+, r � 1 ott. i�.,,�"�~rl�! v . •`,l+I,_y.(.�1 A{��7t(� 5\ i' :--' _ ;.y.' _ .r t �.`c�,_',`� dyy.`._. !�� ..•..� -_P�,Y, f! t!. r .t1 F/,1`_•_�.r�'r-`�'�.4• )rr^' t. t� .'..fir _ r�i♦ �nfr 1' .•.. _ _ ~ �\C'1 t ,�,J��!►1 _ _—, l/'./! f'. . .I ! "wr/i�..J'l• ,rr 41 1 `. '-{ •. L e, "•1 �•� ` ,yj/��-'�.'�r,ir �,. pr.r� t �i. � �� 11��r ��0��..i`l;.' r „�,,�ri ",`. .'^ •. JQ��1 � `'. I !i'� lf;lir \1 �...f r r�d'I �4 :••,.._-� I ! ..�:1 I. `� !�n rig r__- _ .'C.I�,r )7.,�.� •t r 4 J�i 1• \ -•�, ♦ �, i ,�Y(` � J :`J 1.� ;If '` /1:��''''."'r, ' -j` r •1.\ `q^�\i' i6 ^._Jl � 1��.� L7 ;., .'� '�ri. •r^'_ �Jr�l�' �J. N Miles 0 0.125 0.25 0.5 Kilometers 0 0.25 0.5 1 Figure 2 ATTACHMENT Z Stenner Springs Draft Conservation Plan Figure 3. Aerial View Stenner Springs Natural Reserve Aerial View- 2007 gyp•. la/� 'of3�' •'.'y `-..\� '� m ... �-" do _ � v 41 Ib -ice � '�� _ - „• v •%�� 0650 �?=a oop o � , �� ;`� ✓rte �� w� ��O ��" ��'-�, � �•. .�t _4 � ?S , 57 m. j o o N xtA Y ° (T+\3 a p r, N Miles A 0 0.125 0.25 0.5 Kilometers 0 0.25 0.5 1 Figure 3 9 X33-ls ATTACHMENT z Stenner Springs Draft Conservation Plan Stenner Springs parcels. The property 1.2 Background of the consisted (and still consists today) of the Conservation Plan four separate parcels described above. Parcels 1, 2, and 3 have long been As previously noted, the City of San Luis enjoyed for their hiking, biking, and Obispo purchased Parcel 1 from the outdoor education opportunities. Parcel Union Pacific Railroad in 2000. The 4 lies within the boundaries of Camp Land Conservancy of San Luis Obispo San Luis Obispo and has generally not County purchased the remaining parcels been available for legal public access. in 2006 and in June 2007 donated them to the City of San Luis Obispo on the In 2000, the City of San Luis Obispo condition that they would remain as purchased parcel 1. The three other open space in perpetuity. To that end, a parcels were purchased by the Land conservation easement was placed over Conservancy in 2006, and donated to parcels 2 and 3, which restricted the City of San Luis Obispo in 2007. activities there to recreational, Parcels 2 and 3 lie within the boundaries educational, environmental enhance- of Los Padres National Forest, and ment, and research activities compatible Parcel 4 lies within the boundaries of with the environment. Camp San Luis Obispo. Parcel 4, which is a 50% undivided The property contains three popular bike ownership, lies within the boundaries of trails, "Shooters" Trail, which was Camp of San Luis Obispo. The State of formerly a fire road, "Elevator" Trail, a California owns the other 50%. As a continuation of the fire road; and condition of the Land Conservancy "Morning Glory", a mostly hand- donation, parcel 4 is governed by rules constructed trail which got its name after and regulations of Camp San Luis the fire that swept through the property Obispo, and any proposed activities in 1994. Following the fire, thousands of there must have the approval of the morning glory plants re-sprouted and Camp. There are important natural covered the area with their twining resources within the four parcels, stems and flowers clambering over the especially the extensive serpentine burned stalks of trees and shrubs there. chaparral, coast live oak woodlands, Thousands of acres were extensively natural springs, Sargent cypress groves, burned, and the evidence of that event and associated riparian habitats, and is still apparent today. the serpentine soils with their associated rare and sensitive plant species. The properties also have several other unnamed trails, some of which are very A biological assessment was conducted steep and causing erosion and gullying in the area by the consulting firm Tenera problems; others appear to be benign in in spring 2009. Floristic surveys that regard. Over time there has been identified over 140 plant species on the an incremental increase in such trails, property, with 8 of them being classified and action is needed to control or direct as rare species. Animal surveys further impacts of this type. revealed over 80 different species, mostly birds. This figure is almost 10 ATTACHMENT Z Stenner Springs Draft Conservation Plan certainly low as the list consists of Of the above, the most significant are species actually observed on the the pipeline easements, which allow for property, and additional species not installation and maintenance of the observed are expected to occur there. three water pipelines across portions of Parcels 1 and 2, together with rights of Six different habitat types were identified access. As a result, a maintenance on the property and range from road exists which accesses Parcel 1 serpentine outcrop to annual grasslands from private property to the west and to wetland seeps. The rare and sensitive traverses a portion of the property, up to species are distributed throughout the the so-called "portal" area on Parcel 2, different habitat types. Management where the three pipelines emerge from activities that exist and are proposed for the tunnels crossing under West Cuesta SSNR are public recreation, road Ridge. These easements also restrict maintenance, erosion control, sensitive some of the activities on the surface, habitat restoration, and endangered specifically tree planting which could species enhancement. conflict with maintenance requirements for the pipeline routes. One of the 1.3 Access easements, for the Nacimiento pipeline, is very active as the pipeline is currently The property does not have public (summer 2009) being constructed there. vehicular access. However, a well-used pedestrian and bicycle access exists through the Cal Poly campus at the end 2. Inventory of Stenner Creek Road (though one must cross the railroad tracks), and 2.1 Physical features another exists through Los Padres National Forest from TV Tower Road Area— 363 acres (also known as West Cuesta Ridge Miles of trails—4 miles Road). Legal vehicular access for Miles of waterway— 2.5 miles maintenance purposes is available Access points — there are no public through Camp San Luis Obispo. vehicular access points to SSNR. Pedestrian and Bicycle access is 1.4 Legal Agreements available through a portion of the Cal Poly campus and from TV Tower Road Existing easements for water pipelines, in Los Padres National Forest. communication lines, and restricting uses of the property are present at 2.2 General Description SSNR. These include: 1. At least three easements for water The general aspect of SSNR is of a pipelines; scenic, brushy mountainside, with 2. An easement for a coaxial cable line; occasional grasslands and oak (possibly abandoned) and woodlands, plus a planted eucalyptus 3. A conservation easement restricting grove. Health of the vegetation is the uses of Parcels 2 and 3 to open considered very good, as the site has space and recreational uses. made nearly full recovery from a major fire in 1994. Some burned trees are still apparent, however new shrubs and 11 D _/� ATTACHMENT 2, _ J Stenner Springs Draft Conservation Plan trees are thriving and filling in the Remnants of the water pipeline for the hillsides. Several natural springs flow steam engines can still be observed on into both the San Luis Obispo Creek Parcel 1, and are visible today on the watershed and the Chorro Creek/ Morro realigned "Elevator Trail". The pipeline Bay watershed. These wetland habitats was probably built in the late 1800's and greatly enhance the upland resource was used until after World War Two to value of this property, having been provide water for steam locomotives found, among other things, to support a traveling the railroad grade at that population of endangered California location. Red-legged frogs. The three main trails (Shooters, Morning Glory and Elevator) The other historical feature of note is the are heavily used by mountain bikers and portal of the Salinas Reservoir water hikers, and have been for many years. pipeline, which is the oldest of the In 2008 a portion of Elevator Trail was pipelines (constructed in 1942). rerouted for safety and environmental Despite its age, however, the concrete reasons. structure is not considered historic in a legal sense. No activities are called for in the vicinity of the portals and they are 2.3 Cultural/Historic Resources expected to be unaffected by implementation of the Conservation It seems probable that Native Plan. Americans made some use of the interesting flat on Parcel 1 with its reliable water sources; however, no prehistoric artifacts were found in a major survey conducted in 1996 as part of the environmental planning for the Nacimiento pipeline. That survey 0 included portions of both parcels 1 and 2, extending for 200 yards on either side of the pipeline route. The eucalyptus ., and Monterey cypress tree plantings at that location suggest some type of homestead or other residential use. However, again, however, no archeo- logical g - - logical evidence for such use has been observed. The other parcels are steep and densely covered with brush and are therefore considered to be much less likely candidates for significant Native = American use. The Eucalyptus groves on parcels 1 and 2, were presumably planted in the late 1800's or early 1900's. West portal of the City's 1942 water pipeline from Santa Margarita Lake 12 53 — ATTACHMENT Z Stenner Springs Draft Conservation Plan _ 2.4 Geology and Soils which has a strong year-round flow. The others are variable. In addition, The geology of the Stenner Springs there are several seeps, where water area was described in a geologic study reaches the ground surface for all or published in 1979 (Hall et al). The part of the year but does not result in survey indicated that most of the significant surface flows. Finally, the property is underlain by rocks of major spring and several of the smaller Jurassic age, chiefly serpentine and springs form the headwaters of several greywacke. A portion of Parcel 2 is small, perennial streams which flow to underlain by red chert, also of Jurassic the railroad tracks and form the main age. Much of the parent material is in stem of Stenner Creek below the tracks. the form of a "melange", that is, a mix of In addition the headwaters of the south crushed and broken rocks with limited fork of Chorro Creek forms on Parcel 3. bedrock exposures. 2.6 Habitat Types These parent materials give rise to a soil mix of rock outcrops and clay loams of The Tenera survey identified 6 plant the Gazos-Lodo clay loam, Henneke- communities or habitat types at Stenner Rock outcrop complex, Lodo clay loam, Springs. (City staff has added the and Los Osos-Lodo complex. These cypress groves as a seventh type.). are all poor and easily erodible soils These habitat types include: (Class Vile). Most of the property is steep and mountainous with moderate 2.6.1 Chaparral/Coastal scrub to severe erosion potential. Except for the Los Osos-Lodo complex, they are Chaparral is composed of hardy plants derived from serpentine parent that thrive in poor soils and can tolerate materials. A discernable difference in dry summers and wet winters. Chaparral vegetation between the serpentine- is highly susceptible to fire. Most of the derived and non-serpentine-derived plants of the Chaparral community have soils can be seen on Parcel 2, where small, hard leaves which hold moisture. the serpentine chaparral dominated by Some of these plants are Chamise, ceanothus gives way to a chaparral on Leather Oak, Obispo Manzanita, the chert dominated by chamise. Buckbrush (Ceanothus), Bush Poppy and Deerweed. Soils in the area are described in detail in Appendix A. On the Stenner Springs property, most of the Chaparral is underlain by 2.5 Water Serpentine which is dominated by Ceanothus, Leather Oak, and The property contains the headwaters of Manzanita. This occurs on portions of Stenner Creek, and Chorro Creek, both parcel 2 and almost all of parcels 3 and of which are important waterways in the 4. A portion of parcel 2 is underlain by area, and flow into the San Luis Obispo red chert and the Chaparral there is Creek and Morro Bay watersheds, dominated by Chamise. Species that respectively. There are at least five are commonly called the Costal Scrub springs on the property, at least one of 13 � 1 - ATTACHMENT 2 Stenner Springs Draft Conservation Plan community are the Monkey flower, • Riyqut (Bromus diandrus) Coyote Bush, and California sage brush. • Purple needlegrass (Nasella ulchra 2.6.2 Oak/Riparian Woodland 2.6.4 Eucalyptus groves Oak/Riparian woodland occurs along water courses on all parcels and on The Eucalyptus groves consist of lower elevation slopes. The most plantings and volunteers of Blue Gum important of the plants in the Oak/ Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus), with woodland are: Coast Live Oak, occasionally understory of shade- California Bay, Arroyo and Coulter tolerant native species such as: Willows, Toyon and Poison Oak. California Bay, Coffeeberry and Poison oak. There are two groves covering a Brewer's Spineflower total of about four acres. Following the 1994 fire literally thousands of seedlings came up in the groves, and these trees have now formed a dense understory of eucalyptus which is competing in places with older native plants such as oaks for - light and water.. 2.6.5 Serpentine Outcrops Habitat areas of thinner soils or with exposed rock are termed serpentine outcrops. The chemical properties of 2.6.3 Grassland serpentine rock and their associated soils, high in magnesium, low in Grassland habitat is found in calcium, containing large amounts of conjunction with the serpentine iron and nickel, and typically deficient in bunchgrass habitat, on parcel 1 and to a nitrogen and phosphorus, make lesser extent on parcel 4. There are vegetation establishment very difficult. small areas where the serpentine Only certain plant species which are outcrop recedes and open area has serpentine endemic are found here. been colonized by wild oats, ryegrass Brewer's spineflower, Chorizanthe and brome. Plant species commonly brewed, and San Luis Obispo dudleya, encountered in grassland habitat on Dudleya abramsii ssp. murina, are two the site includes: rare plants found only on serpentine outcrops in San Luis Obispo County and • Foxtail barley (Hordeum sp.) are common in the SSNR. • Rve4rass (Lolium multitlorum.) • Wild oats (Avena fatua) V 14 3��Q ATTACHMENT Z Stenner Springs Draft Conservation Plan The survey reported over one hundred �c?r forty plant species, with 8 of those considered rare according to the CNPS, and 48 introduced species. The rare plants found on the property have status _ recordings of List 1B and List 4. The categories are on a scale of low threat (List 4) to species that are presumed extinct (List 1A). Vulnerability is due to * limited or sensitive habitat, low numbers of individuals per population, or low numbers of populations. The majority of Palmer's spineflower these species are serpentine dependent. Due to the harsh 2.6.6 Wetlands environment where these plants are found, their distribution classifies them Wetlands are areas of standing or for listing as sensitive species. The flowing water that support aquatic protection of the SSNR provides these plants, and animals. At SSNR the plants with protection and leads to wetlands consist of springs and the possible enhancement and increase in small waterways that flow from them. numbers. The dominant plant species are Arroyo willow and Coulter willow. At the largest A list of plant species found on the spring, California red-legged frogs were property is in Appendix B, Table I. observed in June 2009. Clay Mariposa Lily 2.6.7 Sargent Cypress y The small groves of Sargent Cyress are found on parcels 3 and 4. Sargent Cypress is a native California tree restricted to widely scattered serpentine sites from Mendocino County in the north to Santa Barbara County in the south. A much larger stand of Sargent cypress occurs on National Forest lands ; immediately to the north of Parcel 3. These habitat types are identified on Figures 4 and 5, Vegetation. 2.7 Plants and Wildlife 2.7.1 Plants A Floristic survey was conducted on the Stenner Springs property in spring 2009. 15 63 -a i -� ATTACHMENT Z Stenner Springs Draft Conservation Plan Figure 4 Habitat Types Parcels 1 & 2 a� 7�;, � deo �C}. t✓r d o ni� - s dr it � �' �i'G��•^` rsd 1 „ '....Y �. ,. \- o l� /w _ ".t � •� U 1 .Y 4��ar+.• �aJT t�,{��lS.-�, � •Y� y10 tv o ' Feet <, Trails and Streams Vegetation Community —Perennial Stream Serpentine Outcrop —Seasonal Stream Q Coast Live Oak Woodland/Riparian —Trail Coastal Grassland Springs and Seeps Eucalyptus Woodland Mixed Chaparral/Coastal Scrub OBorder Figure 4. Natural communities on Parcel I and Parcel 2 of the Stenner Springs Natural Reserve. 16 ATTACHMENT 2 Stenner Springs Draft Conservation Plan Figure 5 Habitat Types Parcels 3 &4 1: qp�eoh o-v "Q 0 U 4 5 1> z" lull 0 2 004 . t TNI1111111C Wp��' Trails and Streams Vegetation Community Perennial stream serpentine outcrop Seasonal Stream Coast Live Oak Woodland/Riparian Trail Coastal Grassland Springs and Seeps Eucalyptus Woodland Mixed Chaparraucoastal Scrub Border i;' 00 'le k Figure 5. Natural communities on Parcel 3 and Parcel 4 of the Stenner Springs Natural Reserve. 17 -,13 ATTACHMENT Z Stenner Springs Draft Conservation Plan 2.7.2 Animals biodiversity of native plants and animals. Multiple animal surveys were conducted To provide the public with a safe on the Stenner Springs property in and pleasing natural environment spring 2009. The surveys reported over in which to pursue recreational eighty different. animal species. The activities, while maintaining the majority of these animals are birds. integrity of the resources and There were in addition 4 species of minimizing the impacts on wildlife amphibians (55 species), 3 species of and habitats present in the reptiles and 8-10 species of mammals Reserve. This can include a including bats. Among the amphibians constructed "skills area" for observed included the endangered bicyclists that links such activities California red-legged frog. to environmental management and appreciation in a suitable A list of observed animal species is in environment on the property. Appendix B, Table 2. It is likely that The eucalyptus grove has been there are more native animals on the identified as such a suitable property as the list names only those environment. species actually observed in field • To preserve and restore creeks, surveys; other species such as wetlands and ephemeral seeps rattlesnakes are assumed to be present or springs to a natural state, and but were not observed and therefore not provide suitable habitat for all listed. native aquatic and riparian species. • To minimize the impacts of 3. Goals and Policies harmful activities, such as the release of pollutants, while 3.1 Goals maintaining the drainage systems as a means of conveying storm The "Conservation Guidelines for Open water into and within urban Space Lands of the City of San Luis areas. Obispo" describes City-adopted To protect and preserve native management guidelines and policies plant and animal species and which are outlined in the City's enhance their habitats, in order to "Conservation and Open Space maintain viable wildlife Element". populations within balanced Management of SSNR will be ecosystems. undertaken by the City with the following 3.2 Public Comment and Input goals: • To conserve, enhance, and A public meeting was held on June 6, restore natural plant 2008 to discuss issues, thoughts and communities; to protect sensitive ideas for the Stenner Springs property. endangered plant species and Some of the topics that where discussed their habitats; and to maintain are as follows: ATTACHMENT 2. Stenner Springs Draft Conservation Plan • Serpentine carries the risk of objective for the site. As enhancement asbestos. Be sure to patrol or mitigation funding opportunities arise, erosion areas, as these areas are they will be pursued to further habitat subject to asbestos. improvements of this type. • Control cattle grazing. Fences or other means of confinement should be installed in order to 4. Conservation Plan prevent unacceptable damage. • Trespassing issues. This is a 4.1 Naming serious matter as Camp San Luis Obispo uses some of the It is recommended that the property be property for target practice and designated as Stenner Springs Natural training. If trespassers are not Reserve because of the springs that are kept out, this could result in a a hallmark of the property. serious injury. • "Skills area" proponents Naming of trails will continue. in an requested such an area at some informal way by trail users. point along the major trails crossing SSNR. 4.2 Land Designations Three land designations are 3.3 Resource Maps recommended for SSNR: include Habitat Area, Management/Trail Area, Resource maps are included in and Restorative Area. Appendix C. These maps show where Mariposa Lilies, Cypress Trees, and 4.2.1 Habitat Area other plants and animals of concern and their habitats are located. The habitat area covers approximately 295 of the 363 acres making up the Reserve, as follows; Parcel 1, 2 acres; 3.4 Resource Enhancement and Parcel 2, 58 acres; Parcel 3, 84 acres; Mitigation Parcel 4, 150 acres. Parcel 1 of SSNR was originally purchased with funds from the City of 4.2.2 Management Area/Trail San Luis Obispo water enterprise, with Corridor the intention of utilizing the property for mitigation of losses of native oak trees The areas of Management and Trail due to construction of the Nacimiento Corridors are as follows: Parcel 1, 44 pipeline, both on and off the SSNR. For acres, Parcel 2, 15 acres, plus those this reason, certain restorative areas are areas of-identified trail in Parcel 3 and proposed within the Reserve. proposed in Parcel 4. This totals approximately 63-64 acres. Wetland enhancement, including the possible introduction of the rare Chorro Creek bog thistle is also a reasonable 19 L33 - ATTACHMENT Z Stenner Springs Draft Conservation Plan Figure 6 Stenner Springs Natural Reserve Trails and Land Use Designations- Parcels 1 and 2 Proposed Trail Habitat Area Proposed "Skills Area" Trails �_ Management/Trail Area Open Space Boundary II__• Restorative Area 1 —A, ' IBJ ;1 N'_-• \.7 7.r OW or Un W12 omnpo o us 250 Soo SLOG!-. GIS Meters ,.... ,.. ... 0 250 500 1,000 1,500 Feet Figure 6 20 I- -� -�6 ATTACHMENT Z Stenner Springs Draft Conservation Plan Figure 7 Stenner Springs Natural Reserve Trails and Land Use Designations- Parcel 3 --� Trails = Management/Trail Area ®Open Space BoundaryHabitat Area = Restorative Area k 3 ,. ,, m -rt%of un Urs nzspo 0 125 250 500 SLO GIS Meter .. . _ ._... 0 265 530 1,060 1,590 rpt Figure 7 21 L—)3 '�� ATTACHMENT Stenner Springs Draft Conservation Plan Figure 8 Stenner Springs Natural Reserve '--' 00 Trails and Land Use Designations- Parcel 4 _? LL w 8:%A r+•I tZ } + ri " ,,�Y Cr 'y�h.f rTS;* •f f0 Q CU . >• '; 4a IQ x � 0 CU h y _ L CV r y Y i r r°�'� �F !'�riNY t" :.:•;: t -r s..•,•.r•tt' `' _ Ct 1 �•. � f 5`.t�ay� L`�ji.y .. *I. ',5^ r �h r y i -iw ,Y + ice{ Y°^ i-. r".• �� 1 i �' •v .. �.�} xt.hit ,� .rt �• � n ,,-o Jt mi _ :pr N L : M �L T t 0 zz B3 -a� ATTACHMENT Z Stenner Springs Draft Conservation Plan 4.2.3 Restorative Area described in "Conservation Guidelines for Open Space Lands of the City of San For the restorative area, there are Luis Obispo" shall be implemented on a potential areas for oak woodland regular or 'as needed' basis throughout expansion and enhancement, wetland the 5-7 years covered by this enhancement, and trail rehabilitation Conservation Plan (NR/PR). covering approximately 12 acres of the total 363 acres, nearly all of which is in Specific Tasks Parcel 1. They are as follows: Years 1-2 • New oak/bay or other • Install informational signage at native tree plantings entrances. • Protective measures for • Remove scattered Eucalyptus existing mature oaks or trees outside of the established any young natural eucalyptus grove, and thin the plantings grove, especially where native • Protective fencing around trees such as oaks are being main spring for the Red- negatively impacted. legged frogs • Initiate oak and other native • Protective measures and plantings at indicated restorative replanting on the wetland areas. and riparian areas • Make "Elevator" trail single track. downstream of the main • Control purple star thistle and spring yellow star thistle. • Other potential restorative • Close or re-route the two major measures would include unnamed steep trails. trail re-routing or closure. • Build a pedestrian/ bike bridge at the access road below the main The Conservation Plan Areas are spring crossing the small creek depicted on Figures 6, 7, and 8 there. • Replace the current agricultural lease with Cal Poly with a needs- 5. Implementation driven grazing program and water use agreement. The general order in which these tasks • Seek agreement with Camp San will be implemented is detailed below. Luis Obispo and U. S. Forest Each task has been designated to staff Service to allow construction of a from the City's Natural Resources loop trail in the eastern (upper) Program (NR), Parks and Recreation portion of parcel 4 to direct trail Department (PR) or other City staff as users back toward parcels 1 and specified. 2_ • Seek a management agreement 5.1 Ongoing Tasks with the U. S. Forest Service to permit city construction, General maintenance activities in monitoring, and maintenance of accordance with the adopted policies 23 �� ATTACHMENT Z. Stenner Springs Draft Conservation Plan existing trails (Morning Glory, and It is this reality, plus the fact that "skills Shooters) crossing forest lands. areas" or "free-ride areas" (as they are • Seek agreement with a non-profit also known) are associated with trail partner to construct and manage usage and are generally found along the mountain bike skills area to trails or physically associated with them the satisfaction of the city, in some way, that allows the City to determine that the establishment of Years 3-4 such an area at Stenner Springs is consistent with the intent of the • Continue activities outlined above Conservation Guidelines and the to completion. updated Conservation and Open Space Element of the General Plan. Years 5-6 5.3 Wildfire Preparedness Plan • Continue activities outlined above to completion. Since Stenner Springs is located in such a remote location, a specific Wildfire 5.2 Addressing the Issues Preparedness Plan is not considered necessary; however, access for fire and Since before the adoption of the original safety vehicles will be maintained. Conservation Guidelines in 2002, the definition of mountain biking as 5.4 Livestock Grazing "passive" or "active" has been problematic for the City of San Luis Livestock grazing is currently permitted Obispo. Since this issue apparently since SSNR is not separately fenced could not be decided by the community, from the adjacent Cal Poly lands to the the Guidelines permitted what might be south. The current lease on the considered active uses in Management property, inherited by the City from Areas and Trails, specifically to Union Pacific Railroad, will be cancelled accommodate this issue and "legalize" and replaced with a new agreement the extensive use of trails in City-owned changing livestock grazing to an as- open space lands by mountain bikes necessary program, and allowing the that was already occurring. continued availability of water for use by Cal Poly's agriculture program. This Adoption of the Update Conservation agreement will remain in effect unless and Open Space Element in 2006 did cancelled or modified by the parties or not address this ongoing issue directly by a superior agency. The City will not but simply called for"passive" recreation provide warranties in the latter regard. in City-owned open space lands. Mountain biking was not mentioned as either "active" or "passive" in the 6. Fiscal Statement Element's glossary. Staff has therefore assumed that mountain biking was and The fiscal impact of the adoption of the continues to be a sanctioned activity in SSNR Conservation Plan is expected to those lands, and has therefore treated be minor. It will consist of patrol and the use as passive by definition. maintenance of the property at the same 24 83 -3c ATTACHMENT Z Stenner Springs Draft Conservation Plan level as currently exists, and the The restoration projects may be funded implementation of several small-scale internally or may utilize grant fund or capital improvements. The latter mitigation sources. include: • Mitigation measures to mitigate The cost of the developing mountain for impacts of the Nacimiento bike skills area is unknown but is pipeline and other erosion expected to be raised through grants problems at the site; and donations; furthermore the site will • Closure or re-routing of existing be managed by an independent group trails where said trails are leading recognized by the City. to resource damage, these include the two unnamed trails on It is expected that the level of staffing for parcels 2 and 3; the Reserve will not change. • Possible construction of a new trail connection Hill 1640 on 7. Monitoring parcel 4 with "Shooter's" Trail, if permitted by Camp San Luis A series of twelve photo-points have Obispo and the U. S. Forest been established at SSNR which Service; include areas of exotic species, • Establishment of a mountain bike grasslands, restoration sites, major trails skills area along the "Shooters" and existing erosion features. The sites Trail at the Eucalyptus grove will be visited at least biannually and upon satisfactory creation of an photographs taken from the same entity to properly construct and perspective. This will give a temporal manage such a feature; record of the status of the resources • Installation of educational and present at SSNR over time. Should directional signage to identify examination of subsequent photographs pedestrian and bicycle trails; and suggest that the status of the resource • Fencing of certain sensitive areas is being negatively impacted (i.e. as needed to control access and exceeding limits of acceptable change) foster habitat restoration and by visitor activity or management enhancement in those areas. decisions, permitted uses and management strategy will be re- None of these projects are considered evaluated. costly. The new trail plus the related closures, would call for expenditures in Aerial photos showing the location of the the $1,00042,000 range for materials. monitoring points and the views from These could be paid out of maintenance them are shown in Appendix D. funds from the Natural Resources program. Volunteer support is expected for actual trail construction and closure. 25 B3 ',31 ATTACHMENT Z Stenner Springs Draft Conservation Plan Appendix A Soils Map and Description of Soil Types 26 53 ATTACHMENT Z Stenner Springs Draft Conservation Plan Soils Map (from Soil Survey of San Luis Obispo Counter, Coastal Part, 1984) 27 �J —33 ATTACHMENT Stenner Springs Draft Conservation Plan Soil Types (from Soil Survey of San Luis Obispo County, Coastal Part, 1984) 144-4azo*4.odo clay Icama,30 to 50 percent elopes.These steep soils are on foothills and Dense stands of chemise often dominate both soils, mountains.Areas are irregular in shape and range from indicating a history of fire. Undesirable plants,which 50 to 300 acres.The natural vegetation is mainly annual indicate soil disturbance,are black sage,California grasses and forbs or brush with scattered hardwoods. sagebrush,and tarweed. Stock trails through dense Elevation ranges from 300 to 2,000 feet The average stands of brush can improve grazing distribution by annual precipitation ranges from 15 to 28 inches,and providing better access to forage. the average annual air temperature Is about 58 degrees In a few areas,these soils are used for Haat homesite F.The frost-free season ranges from 250 to 350 days, development. However, because of the steep slopes, depending on location low strength,moderately stow and slow permeability,and This complex is about 45 percent Gazos soil and 40 depth to rock,urban development and most other percent Lodo soil Lodo soil differs from Gazos soil by engineering practices require special design being shallow and somewhat excessively drained. considerations.The cuts needed to provide relatively Included in this complex are a few small areas of level building sites can expose bedrock.Septic tank Diablo and Obo clays, Los Osos loam,and soils similar absorption fields do not function properly on these soils. to Gazos soil that are deep.Also included are areas of Septic tank absorption lines should be installed on the Lbmpico and McMullin loams.Included areas make up contour.The use of sandy backfill for the trench and about 15 percent of the total acreage.At the San Luis long absorption lines helps to compensate for the Obispo-Montarey'county line,this complex matches with moderately slow and slow permeability and the depth to the Monterey survey's Mitlsholm-Gazos complex.The rock.An alternative method of waste disposal would be Milisholm soil differs from Lodo soil by having fighter connecting to a community disposal system. Road colors.Wilsholm soil is not extensive enough to be design should include measures to decrease water included as a named soil in this survey. erosion,such as minimum grading,installing runoff and The Gams soil is moderately deep and well drained. it sediment control structures,and establishing a formed in residual material weathered from sandstone or permanent plant cover on the side slopes. shale.Typically, the surface layer is brown Gay loam The Gazos and Lodo soils in this complex are in about 11 inches thick.The underlying material is grayish capability subclass Vie(15),nonirrigated. brown and brown day loam 19 Inches thick.Hard, fractured sandstone is at a depth of about 30 Inches. Permeability of the Gazos soil is moderately slow,and the available water capacity is low or moderate. Surface runoff is rapid,and the hazard of water erosion is high. The effective rooting depth ranges from 22 to 38 inches. The Lodo soil is shallow and somewhat excessively drained. It formed in residual material weathered from rod rock,sandstone,or shale.Typically,the surface layer is dark brown clay loam about 12 Inches thick.This is underlain directly by hard, fractured sandstone. Permeability of the Lodo soil is moderate,and the available water capacity is very low or low.Surface runoff is rapid,and the hazard of water erosion is high. The effective rooting depth ranges from 6 to 20 inches. Most areas of these soils are used as rangeland. These soils are moderately suited to rangeland.The day loam surface layer Is subject to sheet and gully erosion and soil compaction.These problems can be reduced if the grazing is restricted when the surface is wet or moist and by allowing greater amounts of plant residue to remain on the surface.Because it is shallower,the Lodo soil has less available water capacity and less average plant production. The Lodo soil is often overgrazed while the Gazos soil is still underutilized.Proper placement of livestock watering facilities and salt promotes good distribution of grazing. The major forage plants are annuals,including burclover. Purple needlegrass and, in the drier areas,foothill needlegrass are locally abundant perennial forage grasses.Because of the shallowness of the Lodo soil, plants mature earlier and become dry and flammable._____________ 28 133 -3Y ATTACHMENT Z Stenner Springs Draft Conservation Plan 146—Henneke-Rock outcrop complex, 15 to 75 per is on l foothThis ills and moderately (see steep very steep are and sediment control structures,and establishing a soilpermanent plant cover on side slopes.The base material Irregular in shape and range from 15 to 1,200 acres.The j may also need to be replaced with a more suitable natural vegetation is mainly brush,annual grasses,and material. perennial grasses with a few scattered hardwoods or This complex is in capability subclass Vile(15), conifers(see fig. 11). Elevation ranges from 1,000 to nonirrigated. 3,000 feet The average annual precipitation ranges from 18 to 35 inches,and the average annual er temperature Is about 58 degrees F.The frost-free season ranges from 200 to 250 days,depending on location. This complex is about 45 percent Henneke soil and 35 percent Rock outcrop. Included in this complex are a few small areas of Obispo day and a deep soil similar to Henneke soil. Included areas make up about 20 percent of the total acreage. The Henneke soil is shallow and somewhat excessively drained.it formed in residual material weathered from serpentine.Typically,the surface layer is reddish brown very cobbly day loam about 8 inches thick.The subsoil is dark reddish brown very cobbty clay about 11 inches thick.This is underlain by hard serpentine rock at a depth of about 18 inches(fig. 13). Permeability of this Henneke soil is moderately slow, and the available water capacity Is very low.Surface runoff is rapid or very rapid,and the hazard of water erosion is high or very high.The effective rooting depth ranges from 10 to 20 inches. The Rock outcrop is hard serpentine that is exposed or near.the so[]surface. Most areas of this complex are used as rangeland, watershed,and wildlife habitat. This complex is poorly suited to rangeland. Because of the day loam surface layer and st+e1,to very steep slopes,the soil is subject to sheet erosion.The exposed cobbles and Rock outcrop hinder livestock movement and increase the hazard of soil erosion.The rocks prevent water infiltration,increasing the amount of surface runoff. Natural terrain barriers should be utilized as management area boundaries.The serpentine parent material causes a calcium-magnesium imbalance,which prevents the normal growth of many plants.The forage produced on this soil is often of low palatability. The major forage plants are perennial grasses,including squirrettail and purple needlegrass.Shrubs,such as leather oak and manzanita, and forage, such as mast and berries,provide wildlife cover and forage.Wildfire is a hazard because the shrubs are often in dense stands. Properly engineered access roads and fuel breaks can improve livestock distribution,reducing the hazirda of soil erosion and wildfire.Undesirable plants include locoweed and tocalote. Most engineering practices require special design considerations because of slope,depth to rock,and large stones.Septic tank absorption fields should be installed on the contour.Increasing the size of the absorption field helps to compensate for the shallow depth and large stones.The placement of absorption fields may not be possible because of the high cobble contant.Excavations for foundations and roads can be protected from erosion by minimum grading,using runoff 29 ATTACHMENT Z Stenner Springs Draft Conservation Plan 147—Ludo day loam,5 to 15 percent slopes.This 150--Lodo clay loam,50 to 75 percent slopes.This shallow,somewhat excessively drained.moderately shallow, somewhat excessively drained.very steep soil is sloping and strongly sloping soil is on foothills and on foothills and mountains. It formed in residual material mountains. It formed in residual material weathered from weathered from red rock, shale,or sandstone.Areas are red rock,shale,or sandstone.Areas are irregular in irregular In shape and range from 5 to 150 acres.The shape and range from 5 to 150 acres.The natural natural vegetation is mainly brush with a few areas of vegetation is mainly brush.annual grasses,and(orbs. annual grasses and(orbs. Elevation ranges from 300 to Elevation ranges'from 300 to 3,000 feet The average 3,000 feet.The average annual precipitation ranges from annual precipitation ranges from 15 to 35 inches,and 15 to 35 inches,and the average annual air temperature. the average annual air temperature is about 59 degrees is about 59 degrees F.The average frost-free season F.The average frost-free season ranges from 250 to 365 ranges from 250 to 365 days,depending on location. days,depending on location. Typically,the surface layer is dark brown clay loam Typically,the surface layer is dark brown clay loam about 12 Inches thick.This is underlain directly by about 12 inches thick. it is underlain directly by fractured, fractured, hard sandstone.Some small areas of this soil hard sandstone. In places,this soil has a sandy loam or have a sandy loam or loam surface layer and contain as loam surface layer and contains as much as 35 percent much as 35 percent gravel. gravel. Included In this map unit are a few small areas of Gbo Included in this map unit are a few small areas of Gbo clay,Diablo day,Gazos clay loam,and Los Osos loam. clay,Diablo day,Gazos clay loam,and Los Osos loam. Permeability of this Lodo soil is moderate,and the Permeability of this Lodo soil is moderate,and the available water capacity is very low or low.Surface available water capacity is very low or low.Surface runoff is very rapid,and the hazard of water erosion is runoff is medium,and the hazard of water erosion is very high.The effective rooting depth ranges from 6 to moderate.The effective rooting depth ranges from 6 to Winches. 20 inches, Most areas of this soil are used as rangeland. Most areas of this soil are used as rangeland.Some This soil los poorly suited to rangeland. Because of the areas are used for urban development clay loam surface layer and steep slopes,this soil is This soil is moderately suited to rangeland.The day subject to sheet and gully erosion and soil compaction. loam surface layer is subject to gully erosion and soil These problems can be reduced by grazing when the compaction.These problems can be reduced by grazing surface layer is moderately dry and by allowing greater when the surface layer is moderately dry and by amounts of plant residue to remain.Uniform utilization is maintaining adequate plant residue on the soil surface. difficult because of the very steep slopes. Property The major forage plants are annuals,including burclover. engineered access roads and proper placement of Purple needlegrass,a perennial forage grass,is locally livestock watering facilities and salt promote good abundant. Because the soil is shallow and frequently distribution of grazing.The major forage plants are overgrazed,such shrubs as California sagebrush and annuals. Purple needlegrass and,In the drier areas, coyotebush become established.Undesirable plants, foothill needlegrass are locally abundant perennial which indicate soil disturbance,are black sage,tocalote, forage grasses. Because the soil is shallow,plants and tarweed. Livestock grazing should be managed so mature early and become dry and flammable. Dense that the desired balance of plant species is maintained. stands of chemise often dominate this soil following fire. Some areas are becoming Increasingly tmportant for Undesirable plants,which indicate soil disturbance,are homesite development Special design considerations black sage,California sagebrush, and tarweed.Livestock may be required,however,for foundations and footings grazing should be managed so that the desired balance because of the shallow depth to rock.Septic tank of plant species los maintained. absorption fields do not function property on this soil. Most engineering practices requbre,special design Septic tank absorption lines should be placed on the considerations because of the steep slopes and shallow contour. Using sandy backfill for the trench and long depth to rock. Road construction and other excavations absorption lines helps to compensate for the depth to should include runoff and sediment control structures rock.An alternative method of disposal should be and minimum grading..A more suitable base material selected.If areas are to be landscaped,topsoil may may need to be brought in from an outside source. need to be imported.Excavation for local road and Because of the high erosion hazard,a permanent plant street construction is difficult because of the hard, cover should be maintained at all times. fractured underlying rock. Erosion can be minimized If This Lodo soil is in capability subclass Vlle(15), minimum grading and runoff and sediment control nordrrigated. structures are used and a permanent plant cover is established on side slopes. This Lodo soil is in capability unit IVe•1 (15), nonirrigated. 30 P3 —�� ATTACHMENT Z Stenner Springs Draft Conservation Plan 185—Los Oso"lablo complex,30 to 50 percent mase soils are moderate suited to rangeland.The. slopes.These steep soils are on foothills and moderately 9 mountains.Areas are irregular in shape and range from steep slopes,clay subsoil,and loam surface layer of the 16 to 400 acres.The natural vegetation is mainly annual Los Osos soil increase the hazard of gully erosion. grasses and forbs with a few areas of brush and Erosion can be controlled by maintaining adequate plant hardwoods along drainageways.Elevation ranges from residue on the soil surface.The clay surface layer of the 200 to 3,000 feet.The average annual precipitation Diablo soil is subject to compaction.This problem can ranges from 15 to 28 inches,and the average annual air be reduced by grazing when the surface layer is temperature is about 59 degrees F.The frost-free moderately dry. Proper grazing use and the use of season ranges from 275 to 350 days,depending on property engineered access roads and fuel breaks location. improve livestock distribution,reducing the hazards of This complex is about 40 percent Los Osos soil and soil erosion and wildfire.These soils have a rather long. 35 percent Diablo soil.Diablo soil differs from Los Osos slow growing forage season.The soils are typically under soil by being deep and by having a day texture annual ahu th suc h ogh Los o oOsos soil supports groves thr� oak w houLI ry plants as bush monk Included in this complex are small areas of Cibo clay, eyf ower,blue elderberry,and California peony. Gaviota sandy loam,Gazos day loam.Obispo day,Rock Major forage plants on both soils include burciover and outcrop,and a soil that is similar to Los Osos soil but is other annual legumes,with purple needlegrass producing deep or is underlain by harder rock Also Included are war 50 percent of the dry weight forage In many areas. small areas of Lomplco and McMullin loams in areas that Undesirable plants include ooyotebush, black sage,and have a dense hardwood canopy. Included areas make choeseweed.Near the coast, milkthistle, poison- up about 25 percent of the total acreage. hemlock,and mustard are undesirable and increase The Los Osos soil is moderately deep and well following soil disturbance,especially on the Diablo soil. If drained.it formed in residual material weathered from the range is overgrazed, the proportion of preferred sandstone or shale.Typically,the surface layer is brown forage plants decreases and the proportion of less loam about 14 inches thick.The subsoil is yellowish Preferred plants increases. Livestock grazing should be brown day and%M yellowish brown day loam to a managed so that the desired balance of plant species is depth of about 32 inches. The underlying material is Pale maintained. yellow sandy loam to a depth of 39 inches.This lies Urban development and most other engineering directly over weathered,fractured sandstone.Some Practices require special design considerations because areas have a day loam surface layer. of the erosion hazard, steep slopes,and the high shrink. Permeability of the Los Osos soil is slow,and the swell potential, low strength,and slow Permeability of the available water capacity is low or moderate.Surface Diablo soil and the Los Osos subsoil, Foundation and Runoff is rapid,and the hazard of water erosion is high. footing designs need to compensate for the high shrink- The effective rooting depth ranges from 20 to 40 inches. swell potential and low strength caused by the high clay This soil has high shrink-swell potential in the subsoil content of these soils. Subgrade material sometimes and is subject to slippage when wet. needs to be removed and replaced with a more suitable The Diablo soil is deep and well drained. It formed in material,or a high degree of compaction and moisture residual material weathered from sandstone,shale,or control needs to be maintained during construction. mudstone.Typically,the surface layer is very dark gray otic tank absorption fields do not function properly day about 38 inches thick.The underlying material to a because of the slow permeability and slope. Septic tank depth of about 58 inches is olive gray clay.This is �orPlion field trench lines should be placed on the underlain by weathered mudstone.The profile is neutral Wnlour. Increasing the length of the Ones helps to in the surface layer and becomes moderately alkaline Compensate for the slow permeability.The high erosion and calcareous as depth increases.Some areas have a mrd can be reduced by minimum grading,installing day loam or silty clay surface layer. runoff and sediment control structures,and establishing Permeability of the Diablo soil is slow, and the a permanent plant cover on side slopes. available water capacity is moderate to very high, The Los Osos and Diablo soils in this complex are in Surface runoff is rapid,and the hazard of water erosion capability subclass Vie(15),nonirrigated, is high.The effective rooting depth ranges from 45 to 58 itches.This soil has high shrink-swell potential and is subject to slippage when wet. Most areas of these soils are used as rangeland. 31 83 -3: ATTACHMENT 2- Stenner Springs Draft Conservation Plan Appendix B Lists of Plant and Animal Species Identified Within SSNR 32 133 -3� ATTACHMENT � Stenner Springs Draft Conservation Plan Table 1 Plant Species p c CL a hQ ° O .oo ° 01 00.- 0 Q n - o 0 o0 O VO U° O 000 0 � C a� - U7 0U ° U rl 0 ° c`ba' o 'o » ° �° o oh: 0 >> o o o ° ' vo 0 0 0 0 of° O m hC IA 8 UUUU m � p ELa Am a= m mc E EOR .2 e o c9 . Am3` Y 9% ` � 30 waiO0 ' U0 (9go0 ! YCLWONmF gA ° CO to E@ t CCCmJIM � � � oigm@ � ba vm@E 3aIZto a a m a � E ° + Woad $pp$ r�UUWIcc wWitit =wQ Qmoo 06ON1WOO I 20 � d 33 [33 .3r ATTACHMENT Z Stenner Springs Draft Conservation Plan v U V O U 7 O no -03 - V O 3 O O U O O � U U O O O U O > »» U U O O U U O O Ix 7 U GUS b ` OK O u K 7 d' UUOU r: O Obb 7 U U D V U d' UUO ` R _ � r — py�t R Aw _'' C 19 O R R r C o � � �. a,$ Og � ? qP OE EQ v L^ dR a a_ R E 'c " � � o ` aR �." Eio .0 3 � Eao H `m �g � E_ 06 � v E ° y.0 o0 c ° mE§ c0ia far► e9aE IL ° � _ W' UUdURv9W WOY W UOiaQ � K U=dy � ° � N N N > C t W � � _ � E o � � b� • � ti + arz 3 tri � q� wa � oo7n ,� O � "� � � R c� 3 ° � a �� z �� n� rn �°ti �xaQQa Q� ammmmmm2c�icici � cic�ic�im 34 83 '�v ATTACHMENT Z Stenner Springs Draft Conservation Plan U U U O O U CC � U O O V 'UNo O O U U O O O V U U U - U cc O U � � U QU U 7 7 > U U 7 pUUd' L U U ^ U OOU !2 k O UU - U U 000 O O U c Q } E w m m o ° pO m E O « d M m Q ° m N 01 c L N 43 7 t c c « U Q N _ 9I CL N O p C N N m W N Y N c 0 w d W N N W 'Sj N O - -�p'' .G c_ N N c 01 EKE ON C e � ° R ma e7 a01oeoeee `o = onEmE $ �, ca �HE ui�Nv10 S m`a. 0 cc cam JE �°o �c� mntL� a° a°w' A . a � wO � 5 � �' z 't ' A: a W 'E " E W CdE �� q a "di coEW32 + W g W (p m $ b to C v t9 j C m a !v, Z* tp Cf � C NNp ,C �.•g V qNz CC ° , mm �g � .CW 3 .CW � W_ti `kms zk NBr? '� o � mmd12 ` m� � �be5 � � 33Y � j ro j U Ua UUvUU �iUUG .000UOCOQOWWWY © t7O0 = S� T> »Y 35 ATTACHMENT Z Stenner Springs Draft Conservation Plan O U U VU UO U U O O O U U • O �U VU 7 7 O U > > U U U or U U O U U vo a o - a moa a rc oa o oa U > > U o0 O O U U E a 9 9g m C ? W N = m A m E G C1 O ° C E NCL c V •c N ul w L II > > a � m 3 Q02 W � c �c m a w = C II N (7Q H 3 y 3 C m W E C1 �°. E aor `y yNN{ Y N E m II O N Y N E d l0 A C = C u 8 C 7 ` C �p �+ tl1 C ��{ ° W ',r. m V VII W m O r r g CE 9 m O m m O W E — Y r Y t m E m o m w m u II V = o = � � v 0 W aim E � Y 019 WE;25 Uow3_ ma� mm sromd' UdaadaaIrm`m3Uaxaa � mdUx m E E R m m % a 0 3 m u� W = $ tea ; �^ ® Em W = sa • � Wmt gm � 'oE ' 3o3.� � x > J � eo�iE > > � ow, o12 F3 m �eQm � m „ � km = EWE3 � rEEErW�g �° m . �— W $ Sod �i � m � E �' $ �• � oo9mmgom iur o fi � � � 0j ioa ° ° � 2 4� 444 � 449 �CZCmyyyyV1 V1 V1 lq V1 36 -� ATTACHMENT Z Stenner Springs Draft Conservation Plan 0 0 C O U =1U O � O � s a � m = EHE c ` t -o cn dm :� c E . cm C6 d a C V L M N Q 7 N y . W C r- 3 .1 CO 8 12 e E Pf G y tp � C •► � � � � C V�i ,� C� Ca U � p �i� 37 b3 ' 3 ATTACHMENT Z Stenner Springs Draft Conservation Plan Table 2 Amphibians Scientific Name. Oak/l?ipaHan Chaparral and Eucalyptus Grassland Common'Name _ . - Woodland Scrub Woodland t3auachoseps nfgriverans Black-bellied slender salamander Pseudacris regilla J 1 Pacific chorus frog Rana aurora draytonil J California redo ed fro Taricha forosa torose Coast range newt Table 3 Reptiles Scientific Name loaklMi7arjOn thaparra!anii' Eycalyptus Grassland Common Name _Wootl[and Scrub Woodland Cnemidophorus tigris Western whiptail lizard Elgaria muldcarinatus Southern alligator lizard Plesdodon skiltonianus Western skink Pituophis melanoleucus Go hersnake Sceloporus occidentalis Western fence lizard 38 4n, . �� ATTACHMENT Z Stenner Springs Draft Conservation Plan Table 4 Birds Spentift Nar»e Oak/F paflan Chapa►raL Eucalyptus Common Name Grassland - Wood/and` and.Scrub Woodland Aeronautes saxatalis White throated swift Aimophila ruffeeps ruficeps J Rufous-crowned sparTow Amphispiza belli J Bell's sa es arrow Aphelocoma califomica J J J Western scru is Archilochus alexandn Black-chinned hummin bird. Baeolophus inomatus J Oak titmouse Bombycilla cedrorum J Cedarwaxwin Buteo jamaicensis J Red-tailed hawk Callipepia califomica J California quail Calypte anna J J Anna's hummingbird Calypte costae Costa's hummingbird Carduelis tristis American goldfinch Cathartes aura J Turkey vulture Certhia Americana J Brown creeper Chamaea fasciata Wrentit Chondestes giammacus J J J J Lark sparrow Colaptes auratus Northem flicker Columba fasciata J Band-tailed pigeon Contopus borealis J Olive-sided ffVcatcher Corvus brachyrhynchos American crow Cyanocitta stellen Steller's may Cypseloides niger J Black swift Dendroica coronate Yellow-mrnped warbler Dendroica nfgrecens Black-throated gray warbler Dendroica petechia J Yellow warbler 39 13,3 ' � ATTACHMENT Z. Stenner Springs Draft Conservation Plan Dendroica townsendi Townsend's warbler Falco sparverhus American kestrel Haliaeetus leucocephalus Bald eagle Hirundo pyrrhonta J Cliff swallow Hirundo rusbca Barn swallow Icterus bullockii Bullock's oriole Junco hyemalhs Dark-eyed 'unto Meleagris gallopavo Wild turkey Melanerpes fonnicivorus Acom woodpecker mimus-polyglottis Northern mockingbird Myiarchus cinerascens Ash-throated flycatcher Oreortyx pictus Mountain quail Parus rufescens Chestnut-backed chickadee Passerella illaca Fox sparrow Phcoides nuttalll Nuttall's woodpecker Plcoides villosus Hairy woodpecker Pipilo crissa/is California towhee Pipilo erythrophthalmus Spotted towhee Polioptila caerulea Blu"ray anatcatcher Psaltriparus minimus Bushtit Regulus calendula Ruby-crowned kinglet Sayomisnigricarrs Black phoebe Sayomis says J Sa 's: hoebe Selasphorus sasin J Allen's hummingbird Sialiia Mexicana J Western bluebird SiCa caiollrtensis White-breasted nuthatch Spizella atrogularis Black-chinned sparrow 403 �b ATTACHMENT Z Stenner Springs Draft Conservation Plan Spizella passerine J Chipping s anew Stumella neglecta J Western meadowlark stumus vulgaris J Eurocan starlin Thryomanes beWckU J J Bewick's wren Toxostoma redivimn J California thrasher Troglodytes aedon J J House wren Tardus migratorius J American robin Tyrannus verticalis J J Western kingbird Vermivora celata J Orange-crowned warbler Vireo huttoni J J Hutton'svireo Zenaida macroura J J Mourning dove Zonotdchia atricapilla J J Golden-crowned si3arrow Zonotrichla leucophrys J J Mdeorowned sparrow 41 B3 / T ATTACHMENT L Stenner Springs Draft Conservation Plan Table 5 Mammals Scienfific Name Grassland DakIMpadan Chaparral and Eucalyptus Common Name Woodland. Scrub Woodland Canis latrans Coyote Order Chiroptera Bat Fefis mfus Bobcat Peromyscus maniculatus Deer mouse Mus musculus House mouse Neotoma spp. Unidentified woodrat Odocoileus herionus Mule deer Sciwus griseus Western gray squirrel Spemmophilus beecheyi J California ciroundsquirrel Sylvilagus bachmani Brush rabbit Thomomys bottae Botta's pocket gopher Urocyon cinereoargenteus Gray fox 42 B3 -�4F ATTACHMENT Z Stenner Springs Draft Conservation Plan Table 6 Invertebrates Scienffflc Name Oak(Mparian Chaparral and Eucalyptus Common Name Grassland Woodland Scrub Woodland Abedus indentatus Giant water bugseep areas Adelpha bredowfi California sister butterfly Bombus sp. Bumble bee Bombylius spp. fly Danaus plexippus Monarch butterfly Eleodes sp. . Stink beetle Gryllus pennsylvanicus Feld cricket Neimfnthoglypta umbilicate seep areas Big Sur shoulderband snail Family:Coccineliidae Ladybird beetle Family: Hesperidae Skippers Papilla rutulus Western tiger swallowtail Papllio zelicaon Anise swallowtail Nymphalis andapa Moumin loak butterfly Plaiypedia sp. Cicada Priocnemis sp. Spider was Stenoplematus fuscus Jerusalem cricket Vespula sp. Yelloy4acket 43 V� Ila � / 1 ATTACHMENT Z. Stenner Springs Draft Conservation Plan Appendix C Resource Maps Showing Occurrence of Plant and Animal Species of Concern 44 6-3 -SD ATTACHMENT Z Stenner Springs Draft Conservation Plan Plant Species of Local Concern i en x p zi ° v N � & �. ti a 1151, g 1. O F, LY m / a O J .yam_.,`ofxb e ` R JCS .A y:. v^DocO S � �.N r•' �c�✓0 e° _�Qy.+µ1s,l °O ' 4 °'' . `a 3L --8a— 45 83 —65-/ ATTACHMENT � Stenner Springs Draft Conservation Plan ` •�._,. '.w +�'v a may' «, �§ .. .� ' ��• r p �A'l P �1 y.Fi �p 547° m ` 'Iy �0 C •�4 �t 0..4�''y �cy�_Y ems' Stiir' . • d ° r' 'a O o IY YcA". o a U DO 9 rac 13 w m 'cm m m V coo Ot IIN Li �P a ��C� �� 6 �( � .��e: IFS ��✓k 'e oc a �^ � o , '. . Q ,P.a'�. •.. ° "`- R)ra� o om m 1 y6y}}VV v�y: JJ _ 46 83 _�� ATTACHMENT Z Stenner Springs Draft Conservation Plan Animal Species of Local Concern `•�,�* 0' v h. o qq M tv +7 ))an ryy,� tr '• , "> s O� � •Vocr� R•xt •� Q3y� pa� 0� w V u 6 J C'tP �a CL � /IJI(f�{�/'�3. ��. .V�.L'j ��•�-cam b�° •`' . �. � 9 , .�V-..3` :: 'k e 6'.° a �©' xb d}i�' �a-�` ca9 ♦ � is c •t >b o. 0.v � m `°,, e•, ai y o u C 0�5'�" -e' er 9 y e•3. P r�a,si� • z � NY O•.� '^3 _� rim ?.�rnv0° 6. � � �h�,�k :µQi ° F? � . 47 B3 �J�� ATTACHMENT Z Stenner Springs Draft Conservation Plan Appendix D Photo Monitoring Points and Aerial Photo of Photo Point Locations 48 a3 �51 ATTACHMENT Z Stenner Springs Draft Conservation Plan Stenner Springs Natural Reserve Photo Point Locations d r I q t� � •t� ^.lJ • o _ r' vp•i•'..� xl a'Qct V � 4 r d ° RAll�,�p. j ell, 10 N Miles 0 0.125 O.ZS 0.5 Kilometers 0 0.25 0.5 1 49 ATTACHMENT Z. Stenner Springs Draft Conservation Plan Photo-point 1: "Elevator" trail by the lower pedestrian entrance. 1f -��i '�r /T�L�( *}'�.k�*7�4iF.1w 'N��r �,k�y.�t i�-�+�• it -y, y V r�JYF�: y�` t, '�f+n.c ' • rt Ct��i� �?. ;° tt ' �1� �. i�«N•' j f' !�'q ; ` rig,a .s+a�.y�+C�. .; y'M`ay - s p o\ p.��s�� yJaTo••. l��+�e.l.,`�x yap 1(1..t • f'D i� }! ��,1� ��$,.. `' ud '.r��°`' �•-tii"�'S ��. .,J;rvy+'Ya� L�� 1y'�.� 'q,,.� ,.y,�". 'oro�.� .��•� {"{J�;, y ' �,,yyy p' �i 'Y � y, ' r rdJJ sem.{v ', �p�aT_i! \'v�'T'lty� P^ l�\L�y •k" o.s^.�, �f,.,F4, •} 5. • u rpt ��,U�'t'..Y�^i t,�")c�1-'r._�.c��1' - �".. Photo-point 2: Nacimiento pipeline installation impacts. 16 I-A Imo'��. , •OP ! 1d � l i rp' a .I� •4J«� ck` «� Y•"� '.. -�qqf•� i x,n -w.�ri ai 3�s' yrt ;"'Y'•parC fin- � 91� ac.�� t �/" t; 1Mh. X TI + 1 .� l (. Y'S' Y•`F �I'.r�.�i.f ' fit `\ 1n'f 4 •\�• a\ r Al+�' �( —�c'�Y.y4N9��1,.,)t,lj."Ivf• )°..;j�ri�t'`4, +� r ,r rf.ytr'' ".`` . .� , ,' 1\a..ti'. tY� {y. 'y ')�111 •ti.,' /'i .' t a y.b. ayC�. ''. . . � `�•. •4a\` 7+'i t ��.7jlc�R�uNrt�I'��Nigrr�,{r. �f jt!(f/7 fi r ti� L��i` Krr n» e{•�'�M'$•rr" _„jy'H" \ .;�?„js 50 All L a Y M1J• ♦ -ti ,R.,.T,V1 _ r'vi J..y eID�L�, y�. A t .� � � � ��.#P 1't �� ! .��, t , .pp.•,. � l�7� L ,,a, �L J r 1.]r ' .Il` ��J �u fl}5�t�rSc�.'1R .��•�' 9, i �'j'CI� w � �L t �.� .� .•� �1 1� II � � L1 _ .i 1'D• f i !"rte. _ ";�++" �+.-:-.!lr__•' , L-, L � '�T• '�y1 r i p • _".. � � J,,•Srl i- �.t. .r^�� rw�etsi ��-r.�vri ■. t f+ ' C"t..::�T.v�l.i� �'-- �.` ►"t!rs'��1' t. ..:.'^ kr�fs�_.v r! ATTACHMENT 2, Stenner Springs Draft Conservation Plan Photo-point 5: Another view of the "skills area" also located in the main Eucalyptus grove on parcel 1. S r Y • �' "'^+ate:_.. •\•p:h by � r7ti�Y..♦�O 'C"- � --�, � 'mss. )'ic: 'Co> i Photo-point 6: The steep trail on Parcel 2 that is causing extensive damage. Closure of the trail is recommended. - .�•wr.»ti+W.�,t^.,,r ver,._a,r,°Y-4.:2. f. .. r .i .✓" µYS. n-•r'1� !. i ski "� Y! ^"^ ' �/ !p ^ h? r ,. J f.. iY � rr'.*J t 4i�;.'Ft�Nt�'�1'��,'(�a bs��+ie v"7,♦y'�E,�,�V��•y� it*-� ��' 6: io•♦ { +' G ♦ r ! j> P ,fix+.[ti t� .� fk S. ati l {•., � 1 r + -.y .e�•�Sri `r� s n t ��. �Rr -.! i� `' :'. r 14L'rl ti i ..�t �l v"' �r+ ! r' i.z'�:.3+ ac a� "+'. tTM� '� F}$3,,Sf t'rl.�.''"^y,� '✓J {'T �' /.�j 1,'L. !� J., +iii h ♦ �3�! •+T 'f 1 �«. Y. < Cf'�YM`7'�ai l-.�+i .D �,. it t �� Y� ♦fir- r � 1 � '" Yv 52 �� —D ATTACHMENT 2 Stenner Springs Draft Conservation Plan Photo-point 7: The existing trail on parcel 1 which is located near the "skills area". f , •�ty A 1 r.• � � T 1.5 a� °l.ar^. .. d. Q""'k� �_ s ' 3:l•- 1 K p c'c ��e 0 r c _ Photo-point 8: Typical view of the "Morning glory" trail roughly 100 yards north of junction from "Shooters" trail. _ "" ., rk (��}oN�'.�. Alla�.^.i�A.-rY�?�u:!."T•. � � w"!Y. �t ^ hF•`�JV�j � `4 &., ' �.jam, Y.�"�+''.o' •�, .. . as T'°`y. C+�' nrmis 2.t 53 ATTACHMENT Z Stenner Springs Draft Conservation Plan Photo-point 9: "Morning Glory" Trail at the point on Parcel 3 where it leaves an old jeep road and becomes hand-constructed. s�'�r•e,..w !fir r log 1 O. C� .�~ 'T~'��a �Y �I(J'.`I .r r 4 I-1• �.9 1 S a']I:`wr��y� � 1.4ya^a'"y a j l -E ♦ J rq�Z�y�- �+ fah..►- o- tj'l-� '.," ,l �•♦4, .a�c'. �� ^�,a^ LJ�S�y .1,�� Sn �:i� ••it 't~..a��4�:yt -i��i .r..^'`r'''� A ,y ,�ry.•�� "' w 'ti c j -tirT [ .r.F` L ew tom'+" .<.. „,,.11 *"e 's- +yrji�W'.y'i� ast '. yX�-• i :-^f ��a}.x-tr .na��< y1':. Photo-point 10: This photo shows the erosion problems of trails that are placed in- correctly by visitors. This trail will be closed. � t �'}uj t'`_ AIS s. ��-• �4�� .'I �.�.d `r t•rJ�'r iy.N '""y��.-r - ^. -�� yr �'�,�� `r � c '�`ri��', f^ �v },�-.,�•'s' ♦ ...� `M � y1}�1►• (�Y•'.! ��K..41+�� Sa "y+a- •R t .h� 444 ,y a .$�yy� �'�� "C!" s� r&• �j Lam' yj� i,1Q ..I` ICS k '� 1rr-+ro's.- �.r' _r 'l', � .,..�y.�y .n-_, �� ti�^ 'rp•ate ft+�tnt1..'. �`��'Sy ,,,^je,7R+^t��` •�-F^TS�Y � }ar" �+ t P?� Y � r. , C �i. ~~V •++Jr� �RY`�i's 'y�-'�r+'�'i �y� .(y�,'- �" sf.,n a�„ . rY _ < _ 3�. �'.'�S i.� 1EIYj•+;�Y�`4JrL„`F YIR: �,{__ �tl M` Y y � .fir ^i �•. ',1 '"�O• y�S�{ 't' X' ry7 •� a f!`VY �(j�u�_Y' rr\ +�Ljgp `'Zr.. } 71b, �w'.r� {l A. � � +��Y2�i`�'i`��sfrsti�hzM•11++.t'��A�y.+:tiG,*��.. Fy��'�a` 54 ATTACHMENT Z Stenner Springs Draft Conservation Plan Photo-point 11: Unnamed trail that was part of the old jeep road, the upper portion is part of"Morning Glory" trail Y T_ su ' . V I. y` ♦ u �4 T. � Yf'h+��, ., s 4 . . �C. gs �. �, ,,� ,rte•.,: Photo-point 12: "Morning Glory" trail near the crossing of upper Stenner Creek. ' .�: jY`. � -¢ .yY e .,w 1 Y 'rs ii M1 t'L ^ 4•'C Y�� `,?+rte h we JA`s ::�f C' ^'{ .�'S�$� ri�'•*" _ r t �F a:J r, � t �yw�! b3 55 ATTACHMENT 3 city of san tuts omspo INITIAL STUDY ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST FORM Application # ER/GPI 68-09 1. Project Title: Stenner Springs Natural Reserve Conservation Plan (GPI 68-09) 2. Lead Agency Name and Address: City of San Luis Obispo, 990 Palm Street, SLO, CA 93401 3. Contact Person and Phone Number: Neil Havlik, (805) 7817211 4. Project Location: End of Stenner Creek Road in unincorporated SLO County (APNs 070- 061-018; 073-291-003; 073-321-003, and 073-321-013 (50% undivided interest) 5. Project Sponsor's Name and Address: City of San Luis Obispo, 990 Palm Street, SLO, CA 93401 6. General Plan Designation: Agriculture 7. Zoning: Property is in the County,and is zoned Agriculture 8. Description of the Project: The project is the adoption of the Conservation Plan for the 363 acre Stenner Springs Natural Reserve. The plan provides direction on the management of recreational activities, wildlife protection, wildfire management, and sensitive habitat conservation. The ultimate aim of the plan is to reconcile public use of the land for passive recreation (hiking, mountain biking) with the conservation of natural resources, protection of sensitive species, and wildfire and emergency preparedness. 9. Surrounding Land Uses and Settings: Public open space, private ranch and a military based owned by the State of California (Camp San Luis Obispo). 10. Project Entitlements Requested: City Council approval. 11. Other public agencies whose approval is required: None. ATTACHMENT .3 C Issues, Discussion and Supporting Information Sources Sources Potentially Potentially Less than No Significant Significant Significant Impact ER#68-09 Issues Unless Impact Mitigation Incorporated ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS POTENTIALLY AFFECTED: The environmental factors checked below would be potentially affected by this project, involving at least one impact that is a "Potentially Significant Impact' as indicated by the checklist on the following pages. Aesthetics X Geology/Soils Public Services Agricultural Resources Hazards&Hazardous Recreation Materials Air Quality X Hydrology/Water Quality Transportation&Traffic X Biological Resources Land Use and Planning Utilities and Service Systems Cultural Resources Noise Mandatory Findings of Significance Energy and Mineral Population and Housing Resources FISH AND GAME FEES There is no evidence before the Department that the project will have any potential adverse effects on fish and wildlife resources or the habitat upon which the wildlife depends. As such,the project qualifies for a de minimis waiver with regards to the filing of Fish and Game Fees. The project has potential to impact fish and wildlife resources and shall be subject to the payment of Fish and Game fees pursuant to Section 711.4 of the California Fish and Game Code. This initial study has been circulated to the California Department of Fish and Game for review and comment. STATE CLEARINGHOUSE This environmental document must be submitted to the State Clearinghouse for review by one or more . State agencies (e.g. Cal Trans, California Department of Fish and Game, Department of Housing and Community Development). The public review period shall not be less than 30 days (CEQA Guidelines 15073(a)). ATTACHMENT 3 Issues,Discussion and Supporting Information Sources Sources Potentially PotentiallyLess than No Significant Significant Significant Impact ER#68-09 Issues Unless Impact Mitigation incorporated ATTACHMENT 3 Issues,Discussion and Supporting Information Sources Sources Potentially Potentially Less than No Significant Significant Significant Impact ER#68-09 Issues Unless Impact Mitigation Incorporated DETERMINATION: On the basis of this initial evaluation: I find that the proposed project COULD NOT have a significant effect on the environment, and a NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared. I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment, --X-- there will not be a significant effect in this case because revisions in the project have been made, or the mitigation measures described on an attached sheet(s) have been added and agreed to by the project proponent. A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared. I find that the proposed project MAY have a significant effect on the environment, and an ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required. I find that the proposed project MAY have a"potentially significant' impact(s) or"potentially significant unless mitigated" impact(s) on the environment, but at least one effect(1) has been adequately analyzed in an earlier document pursuant to applicable legal standards, and (2) has been addressed by mitigation measures based on the earlier analysis as described on attached sheets. An ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required, but it must analyze only the effects that remain to be addressed I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment, because all potentially significant effects (1) have been analyzed adequately in an earlier EIR or NEGATIVE DECLARATION pursuant to applicable standards, and (2) have been avoided or mitigated pursuant to that earlier EIR of NEGATIVE DECLARATION, including revisions or mitigation measures that are imposed upon the proposed project, nothing further is required. August 25,2009 Signature Date Kim Murry,Deputy Director For: John Mandeville, Printed Name Community Development Director R3 , �5 C ATTACHMENT Issues,Discussion and Supporting Information Sources Sources Potentially Potentially Less than No Significant Significant Significant Impact ER#68-09 Issues Unless Impact Mitigation incorporated EVALUATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS: 1. A brief explanation is required for all answers except"No Impact" answers that are adequately supported by the information sources a lead agency cites in the analysis in each section. A "No Impact" answer is adequately supported if the referenced information sources show that the impact simply does not apply to projects like the one involved(e.g. the project falls outside a fault rupture zone). A "No Impact"answer should be explained where it is based on project-specific factors as well as general standards (e.g. the project will not expose sensitive receptors to pollutants,based on a project-specific screening analysis). 2. All answers must take account of the whole action involved, including off-site as well as on-site, cumulative as well as project-level, indirect as well as direct, and construction as well as operational impacts. The explanation of each issue should identify the significance criteria or threshold, if any, used to evaluate each question. 3. "Potentially Significant Impact' is appropriate if there is substantial evidence that an effect is significant. If there are one or more "Potentially Significant Impact" entries when the determination is made, an EIR is required. 4. "Potentially Significant Unless Mitigation Incorporated" applies where the incorporation of mitigation. measures has reduced an effect from "Potentially Significant Impact" to a "Less than Significant Impact." The lead agency must describe the mitigation measures, and briefly explain how they reduce the effect to a less than significant level (mitigation measures from Section 17, "Earlier Analysis," may be cross- referenced). 5. Earlier analysis may be used where, pursuant to the tiering, program EIR, or other CEQA process; an effect has been adequately analyzed in an earlier EIR or negative declaration. Section 15063 (c) (3) (D) of the California Code of Regulations. Earlier analyses are discussed in Section 17 at the end of the checklist. 6. Lead agencies are encouraged to incorporate into the checklist references to information sources for potential impacts (e.g. general plans, zoning ordinances). Reference to a previously prepared or outside document should, where appropriate, include a reference to the page or pages where the statement is substantiated. T Supporting Information Sources: A source list should be attached, and other sources used or individuals contacted should be cited in the discussion. In this case,a brief discussion should identify the following: a) Earlier Analysis Used. Identify and state where they are available for review. b) Impacts Adequately Addressed. Identify which effects from the above checklist were within the scope of and adequately analyzed in an earlier document pursuant to applicable legal standards, and state whether such effects were addressed by mitigation measures based on earlier analysis. c) Mitigation Measures. For effects that are "Less than Significant with Mitigation Measures Incorporated," describe the mitigation measures which were incorporated or refined from the earlier document and the extent to which they address site-specific conditions for the project. ATTACHMENT 3 Issues,Discussion and Supporting Information Sources Sources Potentially Potentially Less than No Significant Significant Significant Impact ER#68-09 Issues Unless Impact Mitigation Inco orated 1.AESTHETICS. Would theproject: a) Have a substantial adverse effect on a scenic vista? —X— b) Substantially damage scenic resources,including,but not --X-- limited to,trees,rock outcroppings,open space,and historic buildings within a local or state scenic highway? c) Substantially degrade the existing visual character or quality of the site site and its surroundings? d) Create a new source of substantial light or glare which would --X-- adversely effect day or nighttime views in the area? Conclusion Proposed actions will have a less than significant effect on the aesthetics of the site. 2.AGRICULTURE RESOURCES. Would theproject: a) Convert Prime Farmland,Unique Farmland,or Farmland of --X-- Statewide Importance(Farmland),as shown on the maps pursuant to the Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program of the California Resources Agency,to non-agricultural use? b) Conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use or a Williamson Act Act contract? c) Involve other changes in the existing environment which,due to their location location or nature,could result in conversion of Farmland to non-agricultural use? Conclusion Proposed actions will have no effect on agricultural resources. 3. AIR QUALITY. Would theproject: a) Violate any air quality standard or contribute substantially to an existingoror projected air quality violation? b) Conflict with or obstruct implementation of the applicable air quality plan? plan? c) Expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant concentrations? d) d) Create objectionable odors affecting a substantial number of people? e) e) Result in a cumulatively considerable net increase of any --X-- criteria pollutant for which the project region is non-attainment under an applicable federal or state ambient air quality standard (including releasing emissions which exceed qualitative thresholds for ozone precursors)? Conclusion Proposed actions will have no effect on air quality. 4. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES. Would theproject: a) Have a substantial adverse effect,either directly or indirectly or throughhabitathabitat modifications,on any species identified as a candidate,sensitive,or special status species in local or regional plans,policies,or regulations,or by the California Department of Fish and Game or U.S.Fish and Wildlife Service? b) Have a substantial adverse effect,on any riparian habitat or othersensitivesensitive natural community identified in local or regional plans,policies,or regulations,or by the California Department of Fish and Game or U.S.Fish and Wildlife Service? c) Conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting -X-- g3 �� ATTACHMENT 3 Issues,Discussion and Supporting Information Sources Sources Potentially Potentially Less than No Significant Significant Significant Impact ER#b8-09 Issues Unless Impact Mitigation incorporated biological resources,such as a tree preservation policy or ordinance(e.g.Heritage Trees)? d) Interfere substantially with the movement of any native resident or migratory migratory fish or wildlife species or with established native resident or migratory wildlife corridors,or impede the use of wildlife nursery sites? e) Conflict with the provisions of an adopted habitat Conservation. --X-- Plan,Natural Community Conservation.Plan,or other approved local,regional,or state habitat conservation plan? f) Have a substantial adverse effect on Federally protected --X-- wetlands as defined in Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (including,but not limited to,marshes,vernal pools,etc.) through direct removal,filling,hydrological interruption,or other means? Evaluation a) Surveys have confirmed the occurrence of a Federally listed endangered species, California red-legged frog, and a rare native plant, San Luis Obispo star tulip, on the project site. Without mitigation, new trail construction and "skills area" construction could affect one or both of these species. Conclusion During trail and "skills area" construction activities, surveying by trained persons will be done to ascertain presence or absence of red-legged frog in the work area. Also,survey of the new trail route will be done during the blooming season of the star tulip (May-July) to ensure avoidance of this species in trail construction. Trail volunteers will be given training in recognition of these two species,and will be instructed to contact City personnel if either species is observed within the work area, and stop work in that area immediately. With these safeguards in place it is expected that the proposed actions will have no adverse effect on biological resources. 5.CULTURAL RESOURCES. Would theproject: .a) Cause.a substantial adverse change in the significance of a _X_ historic resource?(See CEQA.Guidelines 15064.5) b) Cause.a substantial adverse change in the significance of an archaeologicalresource?resource?(See CEQA Guidelines 15064.5) c) Directly or indirectly destroy a unique paleontological resource --X-- or site or unique geologic feature? . d) Disturb any human remains,including those interred outside of _X_ formal cemeteries? Conclusion Proposed actions will have no adverse effect on cultural resources. . 6. ENERGY AND MINERAL RESOURCES. Would the project: a) Conflict with adopted energy conservation plans? _X_ b) Use non-renewable resources in a wastefiil and inefficient manner? c) c) Result in the loss of availability of a known mineral resource that would be of value to the region and the residents'of the State? _ Conclusion Proposed actions will have no effect on energy and mineral resources. 7. GEOLOGY AND SOILS. Would theproject: a) Expose people or structures to potential,substantial adverse __X__ effects,including risk of loss,injury or.death involving: 1. Rupture of a known earthquake fault,as delineated in the _X_ most recent Alquist-Paolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Map issued by the State GeologistTfor_the area,.or based on other_ P3 _6� - ATTACHMENT 3 Issues,Discussion and Supporting Information Sources Sources Potentially Potentially Less than No Significant Significant Significant Impact ER#68-09 Issues Unless Impact Mitigation Incorporated substantial evidence of a known fault? 11. Strong seismic ground shaking? —X— III. Seismic-related ground failure,including liquefaction? —X— IV. Landslides or mudflows? X- b) Result in substantial soil erosion or the loss of topsoil? c) Be Be located on a geologic unit or soil that is unstable,or that would become become unstable as a result of the project,and potentially result in on or off site landslides,lateral spreading,subsidence, liquefaction,or collapse? d) Be located on expansive soil,as defined in Table 18-1-B of the -X— Uniform Building Code(1994),creating substantial risks to life or roe ? Evaluation b) The proposed construction of new trails could potentially result in erosion problems. However, this will be minimized by the incorporation of erosion control techniques into trail design. Erosion control techniques will include appropriate outsloping of the trails and incorporation of waterbars and other appropriate erosion control features into trail design. Trail construction will also incorporate silt containment features where necessary to avoid silt discharge into existing waterways,where intervening vegetation and ground litter is not adequate to do so. Conclusion Proposed actions will have a less than significant effect on geology and soils after mitigation. 8. HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS. Would the pro'ect: a) Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment X - through the routine use,transport or disposal of hazardous materials? b) Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment __X__ through reasonably foreseeable upset and accident conditions involving the release of hazardous materials into the environment? c) Emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous or acutely hazardousmaterials,materials,substances,or waste within one-quarter mile of an existing or proposed school? d) Expose people or structures to existing sources of hazardous - R- emissions or hazardous or acutely hazardous materials, substances,or waste? e) Be located on a site which is included on a list of hazardous materialssitessites compiled pursuant to Government Code Section 65962.5 and,as a result,it would create a significant hazard to the public or the environment? t) For a project located within an airport land use plan,or within —X-- two miles of a public airport,would the project result in a safety hazard for the people residing or working in the project area? g) Impair implementation of,or physically interfere with,the --X-- adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan? h) Expose people or structures to a significant risk of loss,injury, __X_ or death,involving wildland fires,including where wildlands are adjacent to urbanized areas or where residents are intermixed with wildlands? Conclusion The project area is in a high fire hazard area. However,local regulations already result in closure of the area to entry during high fire hazard periods,and this will continue. The proposed actions will not create a new hazard situation. 83 - 0 ATTACHMENT ,3 J Issues,Discussion and Supporting Information Sources Sources Potentially Potentially Less than No Significant Significant Significant Impact ER#68-09 Issues Unless impact Mitigation incorporated 9. HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY. Would theproject: a) Violate any water quality standards or waste discharge _X_ requirements? b) Substantially deplete groundwater supplies or interfere substantiallywithwith groundwater recharge such that there would be a net deficit in aquifer volume or a lowering of the local groundwater table level(e.g.The production rate,of pre-existing nearby wells would drop to a level which would not.support existing land uses for which permits have been granted)?, c) Create or contribute runoff water which wouldexceed the _X_ capacity of existing or planned stotmwater drainage systems or provide substantial additional sources of polluted runoff.. d) Substantially alter the.existing drainage pattern of the site or --X area in a manner which would result in substantia_1'erosion or siltation onsite or offsite? e) Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or _X_ area in a manner which would result in substantial flooding onsite or offsite? f) Place housing within a 100 year flood hazard area as mapped --X— on a Federal Flood Hazard Boundary or Flood Insurance Rate Map or other flood hazard delineation map? g) Place within a 100-year flood hazard area structures which --X-- would impede or redirect flood flows? h Otherwise substantially degrade water qualityZ. --X-- Evaluation c) h.The proposed construction of new trails could potentially result in erosion problems,which could in tum affect water quality. However,this will be minimized or avoided by the incorporation of erosion control techniques into trail design. Erosion control techniques will include appropriate outsloping of the trails and incorporation of waterbars and other appropriate erosion control features into trail design. Trail construction will also incorporate silt containment features where necessary to avoid silt discharge into existing waterways. Where intervening vegetation and ground litter is not adequate to do so. Conclusion Proposed actions will not.have an adverse effect on hydrology or water quality after incorporation of mitigations. 10. LAND USE AND PLANNING. Would theproject: a) Conflict with applicable land use plan, policy, or regulation of —X— an agency with jurisdiction over the project adopted for the purpose of avoiding or mitigating an environmental effect? b) Physically divide an established community? =X— c) Conflict with any applicable habitat conservation plan or natural _X_ community conservationplans? _ Conclusion Proposed actions will have not conflict with any other land use plan,nor physically divide an existing community. 11.NOISE. Would the project result in: a) Exposure of people to or generation of"unacceptable"noise .levels as as defined by the San Luis Obispo General Plan Noise, Element,or general noise levels in excess of standards- established in the Noise Ordinance? b) A substantial temporary,periodic,or permanent increase in ambient noise noise levelssiin the project vicinity above,,levels„existing 83 -fib ATTACHMENT � Issues,Discussion and Supporting Information Sources Sources Potentially Potentially Less than No Significant Significant Significant Impact ER#68-09 Issues Unless Impact Mitigation Incorporated -- -without the project?`----- --- ----- -- c) Exposure of persons to or generation of excessive groundbome _X_ vibration or groundbome noise levels? d) For a project located within an airport land use plan,or within --X-- two;miles of a public airportor public use airport,would the project expose people residing or working in the project area to excessive noise levels? Conclusion Proposed actions will have no effect on existing noise levels. 12. POPULATION AND HOUSING. Would theproject: a) Induce substantial population growth m an area, either directly(for example example by proposing new homes or businesses) or' indirectly (for example, through extension of roads or other infrastructure)? b) Displace substantial numbers of existing housing or people __X_ necessitating the construction of replacement housing elsewhere? Conclusion Proposed actions will have no effect on population growth or housing in the area. 13.PUBLIC SERVICES. Would the project result in substantial adverse physical impacts associated with the provision,or need,of new or physically altered government facilities,the construction of which could cause significant environmental impacts,in order to maintain acceptable service ratios,response times,or other performance objectives for any of the public services: a) Fire protection? - - __X-- b) Police protection? -X- c) Schools? -X- d) Parks? -X- e) Roads and other transportation infrastructure?Other public ublic facilities? --- Conclusion Proposed actions will have no effect on public services. 14.RECREATION. Would the project- a) Increase the use of existing neighborhood or regional parks o_r _X_ other recreational facilities such that substantial physical deterioration of thefacility would occur or be accelerated? b) Include recreational facilities or require theconstructionor _X__ expansion of recreational facilities,which might have an adverse physical effect on the environment? Evaluation The proposed project will include addition of several features, thus expanding the existing recreational features thereof. However,this expansion will incorporate mitigations described above,and,after incorporation of mitigations is not expected to have an adverse effect on the environment. Conclusion Proposed actions will not increase recreational use of the site to levels that are detrimental to the physical environment. 15. TRANSPORTATIONrrRAFFIC. Would theproject: a) Cause an increase in traffic which is substantial in relation to _X_ the existing traffic load and capacity of the street system? b) Exceed,either individually or cumulatively,a level of service _X_ standard established by the county congestion management Agency for designated roads and highways? 133 �-q l ATTACHMENT 3 Issues,Discussion and Supporting Information Sources Sources Potentially Potentially Less thanNo Significant Significant Significant Impact ER#68-09 Issues Unless Impact Mitigation Incorporated c) Substantially increase hazards due to design features(e.g. sharp -X— curves or dangerous intersections)or incompatible uses(e.g. farm equipment)? d) Result in inadequate emergency access? —X— e) Result in inadequate parking capacity onsite or offsite? --X— f) Conflict with adopted policies supporting alternative —X— transportation(e.g.bus turnouts,bicycle racks)? g) Conflict with the with San Luis Obispo County Airport Land —X— Use Plan resulting in substantial safety risks from hazards, noise,or a chane in air trafficpatterns? Conclusion Proposed actions will have no adverse effect on traffic or transportation. 16. UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS. Would theproject: a) Exceed wastewater treatment requirements of the applicable --X-- Regional Water Quality Control Board? b) Require or result in the construction or expansion of new water —X— treatment,wasterwater treatment,or storm drainage facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental effects? c) Have sufficient water supplies available to serve the project —X— from existing entitlements and resources,or are new and expanded water resources needed? d) Result in a determination by the wastewater treatment provider --X— which serves or may serve the project that it has adequate capacity to serve the project's projected demand in addition to the provider's existing commitment? e) Be served by a landfill with sufficient permitted capacity to X-- accommodate the project's solid waste disposal needs? f) Comply with federal,state,and local statutes and regulations —X— related to solid waste? Conclusion Proposed actions will have no adverse effect on utilities or service systems. 17.MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE. a) Does the project have the potential to degrade the quality of the —X— environment,substantially reduce the habitat of a fish or wildlife species,cause a fish or wildlife population to drop below self-sustaining levels,threaten to eliminate a plant or animal community,reduce the number or restrict the range of a rare or endangered plant or animal or eliminate important examples of the major periods of California history or prehistory? b) Does the project have impacts that are individually limited,but cumulativelyconsiderable?considerable? ("Cumulatively considerable" means that the incremental effects of a project are considerable when viewed in connection with the effects of the past projects, the effects of other current projects,and the effects of probable futureprojects) c) Does the project have environmental effects which will cause substantial adverse adverse effects on human beings,either ctly or L-3 �� ATTACHMENT 5 Issues,Discussion and Supporting Information Sources Sources Potentially Potentially Less thanNo Significant Significant Significant Impact ER#68-09 Issues Unless Impact Mitigation incorporated indirectly? Conclusion Proposed actions will not degrade the quality of the environment. They do not have cumulative impacts that are significant. They will not have substantial adverse effects on human beings. 18.EARLIER ANALYSES. Earlier analysis may be used where,pursuant to the tiering;program EIR,or other CEQA process,one or more effects have been adequately analyzed in an earlier EIR or Negative Declaration, Section 15063 (c),(3) (D). In this case a discussion should identify the followi ng items: a Earlier.analysis,used. Identify earlier Analyses and.state where they are available for review. None b) Impacts adequately addressed. Identify which effects from the above checklist were within the scope of and adequately analyzed in an earlier document pursuant to applicable legal standards, and state whether such effects were addressed by mitigation measures based on the earlier analysis. None c) Mitigation measures. For effects that are,"Less than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated," describe the mitigation measures which were incorporated or refined from the earlierdocument and the extent to which they address site- ecific.conditions ofthe-project. 19. SOURCE REFERENCES. 1. City of SLO General Plan Land Use Element,July 2002 2. City of SLO General Plan Circulation Element,November 1994 3. City of SLO General Plan Noise Element,May 1996 4. City of SLO General Plan Safety Element,July 2000 5. City of SLO General Plan Conservation and Open Space Element,May 2006 6. 1 City of SLO General Plan Housing Element,.December 2004 7. City of SLO Water and Wastewater Element,July 1996 8. City of SLO General Plan EIR 1994 for Update to the Land Use and Circulation Elements 9. City of San Luis Obispo Municipal Code 10. City of San Luis Obispo,Land Use Inventory Database 11. Site Visit 12. USDA,Natural Resources Conservation Service,Soil Survey of San Luis Obispo County 13. Website of the Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program of the California Resources Agency: http://www.consrv.ca.gov/dirp/FMMP/ 14. 2001 City of San Luis Obispo Water Resources Report 15. City of San Luis Obispo,Historic Resource Preservation Guidelines,on file in the Community Development Department 16. Cultural Resource Inventory 17. City of San Luis Obispo,Archeological Resource Guidelines 18. City of San Luis Obispo Burial Sensitivity Ma 19. City of SLO Source Reduction and Recycling Element,on file in the Utilities Department 20. San Luis Obispo Quadrangle Map,prepared by the State Geologist in compliance with the Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Act,effective January 1, 1990 21. Flood Insurance Rate Ma (Community Panel 0603100005 C dated July 7, 1981 22. San Luis Obispo County Airport Land Use Plan 23. San Luis Obispo Community Design Guidelines 24. 1997 Uniform Building Code ATTACHMENT ,3 Issues, Discussion and Supporting Information Sources Sources Potentially Potentially Less than No Significant Significant Significant Impact ER#68-09 Issues Unless Impact Mitigation Incorporated 28. Conservation Guidelines for Open Space Lands of the City of San Luis Obispo 29. Stenner Springs Natural Reserve Conservation Plan All documents listed above are available for review at the City of San Luis Obispo Community Development Department, 990 Palm Street,San Luis Obispo,California(805)781-7211. Required Mitigation Measures BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES;GEOLOGY AND SOILS;WATER QUALITY BIO 1: Detailed surveys will be conducted in the proposed new trail area to determine the presence of California red- legged frog and San Luis Obispo star tulip prior to site disturbance. (The species has not been observed within the eucalyptus grove.) Survey work for the Star Tulip will be conducted during the blooming season (May-July) to ensure avoidance during any trail construction. If the species is detected, the trail location will be adjusted to avoid it. BIO 2: Daily surveys prior to onset of construction activities will be done to ensure that red-legged frogs are not within the day's work area. Trail volunteers will be trained in recognition of this species(and of the star tulip), and will be instructed to immediately contact City personnel if either species is observed within the work area, and to stop work in that area immediately. WQ/GEO 1: Site work will incorporate proper erosion control techniques into trail design. Erosion control techniques will include appropriate outsloping of trails, incorporation of waterbars or other features designed to prevent water concentration, and containment features for loosened material where vegetation or ground little will not be sufficient to prevent silt from reaching existing waterways. Attachment 1: Vicinity Map Attachment 2: Summary of Draft Plan Available in the project file: Full scale Stenner Springs Natural Reserve Draft Conservation Plan ATTACHMENT� Staff Response to Written Comments Received at the Planning Commission Meeting 8/26/09 (Mr. Don Dollar) 1.1 Comment Proposed Bike Park is like a skate park for mountain bikers and does not belong in open space. 1.2 Staff Response Staff feels that there are fundamental differences between the proposed skills area and a "skate park". Specifically, skills areas such as is proposed, and which have :been constructed in other areas, are generally found associated with trails in open space areas and constitute an accepted adjunct to trail use. While there is nothing, to prevent such features from being built in urban parks or even in indoor facilities, it is the connection to the outdoors and with the phenomenon of trail use that gives them their flavor and attractiveness. Staff believes that this fact is enough to support a finding that would distinguish between skills areas and other features such as a skate park. 1.3 Proposed Change None. 2.1 Comment Bike Park funding should be in Parks and Recreation, not Natural Resources Program. 2.2 Staff Response No City funding for the skills area is proposed at all. Staff recommends that a formal agreement for the construction and operation for such a feature with a qualified operating entity precede any further construction activities. This will include review by City staff (including the City Attorney) to ensure that the City of San Luis Obispo is protected from liability exposure and that the facility is properly engineered and installed. 2.3 Proposed Changes None. 3.1 Comment The Bike Park sets a Precedent that others may use. 3.2 Staff Response See Item 1 above. 3.3 Proposed Changes None. 4.1 Comment The Bike Park proposal raises questions of liability, standards, etc.. 4.2 Staff Response These are questions that would need to be answered at the time of development of an agreement for construction and operation of the skills area. At the present time, the only request is that the City Council and advisory bodies consider whether to 2 .~ATTACHMENT allow such a feature at Stenner Springs at all, provided that an agreement with a qualified operating entity can be made that satisfies City concerns. These will include building and maintenance standards, liability protection, and numerous other matters. 4.3 Proposed Changes Staff will recommend that the Council give guidance on what issues it considers most important to the operating agreement, if the concept is approved. 5.1 Comment How does the City enforce regulations when property is outside the City limits? 5.2 Staff Response Anyone violating City open space regulations in City open space lands is trespassing; whether or not the property is within the city limits. In the unincorporated area, City staff technically would need to have the Sheriff make an arrest or issue a citation. As a practical matter, however, when City staff have stopped people from violations (such as motorcycle riding, camping, etc) they have gotten compliance without resorting to more drastic measures such as arrests. Dealing with rule violations has not proved to be a serious concern. 5.3 Proposed Changes None. 6.1 Comment The Plan needs a discussion of the Level of Acceptable Change. 6.2 Staff Response This concept is implicit in the Monitoring Section of the Conservation Plan document. Representative areas will be monitored for changes, such as widening of trails, erosion problems, etc., and if determined to be excessive, corrective actions will be taken. It is not possible to predict what those changes will be or where, so the program is conducted on an overall basis, where citizen input, questions, and staff survey indicate where problems may arise or have arisen. 6.3 Proposed Changes None. 7.1 Comment Wildfire Preparedness Plan is inadequate. 7.2 Staff Response Given the remoteness of the property, nature of the vegetation, and the low risk to adjacent properties, staff feels that there is little or nothing that needs to be done or that could be done to prepare for a wildlife. A major wildfire in the area in 1994 burned over the entire property within a matter of minutes. During high fire hazard periods the Director of Parks and Recreation has the authority to close City open space lands for public safety reasons. 7.3 Proposed Changes None.. b3 - 76 3 ATTACHMENT -9- a 1 Comment Added restrictions on livestock grazing need to be made. 8.2 Staff Response The Conservation Plan calls for cancellation of the existing antiquated lease and replacement with a new, resource needs driven agreement. 8.3 Proposed Changes None. 9.1 Comment Manage all aquatic resources for a fully functioning natural ecosystem for native species. Remove water diversions and acquire water rights. Remove non-native species, including eucalyptus. Prevent soil erosion, especially into riparian areas. 9.2 Staff Response The Conservation Plan anticipates doing most of the items above, with some exceptions. A minor water diversion has existed for a number of years in which Cal Poly utilizes water from the main spring to provide water for its agricultural programs on adjacent lands. This does not appear to have impacted the property's aquatic resources and is expected to continue. Removal of all eucalyptus in the opinion of staff is neither desirable nor feasible. 9.3 Proposed Changes None. 10.1.Comment The Stenner Springs should be annexed to the City of San Luis Obispo. 10.2 Staff Response Since the property is not contiguous to the existing city limits annexation is not legally possible. Several city open space lands are outside of the city limits. 10.3 Proposed Changes None. 11.1 Comment The cost estimates are too low. 11.2 Staff Response Costs for implementation of the Conservation Plans have only included anticipated capital costs, not staff time. In the case of Stenner Springs, the largest anticipated cost, that of construction of the skills area, is not proposed to be bome by the City, but by an operating entity agreed to by the City. Other costs are minor and can be absorbed by the existing Natural.Resources Program budget. 11.3 Proposed Changes None. 12.1 Comment The Draft plan proposes to maintain trails through lands of the U.S. Forest Service. There may be costs for this, and if groups wish to do this, they should work directly with the Forest Service. 12.2 Staff Response Z 83 4 ATTACHMENT 4 The Conservation Plan proposes to seek management agreements with both the Forest Service and Camp San Luis Obispo to construct a new trail which it is felt will benefit the purposes of the original purchase of land within Camp San Luis Obispo, and the Camp itself. This agreement in turn requires an agreement with the Forest Service in order to allow the trail to be constructed through the intervening Forest Service land to connect again to existing trails on City lands (Parcel 2). Proposing maintenance of additional identified trails within the general area is a reasonable extension of the request to construct and maintain a new trail, and recognizes the interconnection of these lands. Since the trails are already largely maintained by volunteers, staff feels that the additional cost burden is minimal, and is clearly offset by the benefits of a more unified approach to trail maintenance in the area. 12.3 Proposed Changes None. 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N L Q m 7 J C m m cn G O crm U m 0 Z `oa >'c m 'o W 3 �y c ro mn m 0a t `d� E O o� U m Om � m C L ¢ m ~ C C m m= a L 3 c c _ o m c m S) Z E 2 y o c �O C7 U .52 c r c m c o O a� 2 m E0 CD m cc L i � y � 7 O F � m Z W S C C CL m;na to m=r `m c m m c y `o c 'o E ¢ E 0 U L m CL iq C m o m E TE m a C7 0 U UUImIDv 33 ��53 jKESOLUTION NO. ATTAC H M ENT A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO ADOPTING THE "CONSERVATION PLAN FOR STENNER SPRINGS NATURAL RESERVE" WHEREAS,the City of San Luis Obispo has adopted policies for protection, management, and public use of open space lands acquired by the City; and WHEREAS, the City of San Luis Obispo has acquired and manages eleven open space areas totaling approximately 2;500 acres, including the 363 acre Stenner Springs Natural Reserve; and WHEREAS,the City Council desires to have the policies for management of City-owned . open space lands applied in an appropriate and consistent manner; and WHEREAS, the Planning Commission, Parks and Recreation Commission, and the general public have commented upon the plan as it has moved through a Council-directed approval process, and the plan reflects those comments. NOW,THEREFORE,BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of San Luis Obispo hereby: 1. Finds that the implementation of the Conservation Plan as presented to the City Council this date is consistent with the General Plan, and, as mitigated, will not have a negative impact on the environment; 2. Adopts as City policy the "Conservation Plan for the Johnson Ranch Open Space" as presented to the Council this date; 3. Directs that, in the event that the U.S. Forest Service and/or Camp San Luis Obispo wish to participate in the implementation of the Conservation Plan, then additional environmental review needed or requested by those agencies will be undertaken; and 4. Directs the City Administrative Officer to undertake all actions necessary and appropriate to carry out this resolution. On motion of Councilmember seconded by Councilmember and on the following roll call vote: AYES: NOES: ABSENT: The foregoing resolution was adopted this day of 2008. David F. Romero, Mayor ATTEST: APPROVED AS TO FORM: Elaina Cano, Acting City Clerk Jonathan P. Lowell, City Attorney RED FILE Page 1 of 5 MEETING AGENDA DATE� 57 cit ITEM # 3 Council,SloCity From: D.&E.Dollar[ddollar@pad>ell.net) Sea Sat 9/12/2009 7:43 AM To: Council,51°°" RECEIVED &oxw-e C Cc' COUNCIL CDD DIR Subject, Sterner Springs Draft Conservation Plan,9-15-09 �r� 14 2009 CAO i FIN DIR Attachments: ` — CACAOIREC FIRE CHIEF Mayor and City Council, SLO CITY CLERK f'ATTORNEY PW DIR 9'CLERK/ORIG POLICE CHF 13 DEPT�HEADS DIR I make these comments in the Interest of meaningful input on the Stenner Springs Draft Conservation Plan. �p ( UTIL DIR 'r _/r3L�^r HR DIR 5b.igEZ 76w ?c L'o cc.to e c L L< <1eTY0W6 I?— There ZThere Is much I like about the Draft Plan,In fact,most of It, but my comments will be on Items where I think there Is room for Improvement.Our Open Space )e a CE?Z Program is a wonderful aspect of living In San Luis Obispo.The standards and goals of the program are commendable.There is one proposal,the bike skills area(bike park)that I think Is Incompatible with our Open Space Program and would set a poor precedent If approved..It Is great how much work and effort Central Coast Concerned Mountain Bikers(CCCMB) have done in City Open Spaces,especially on trails.Also,I know there is public Interest in a Bike Park. However,that it not the issuefrom my point of view.I feel that It Is the wrong location(In Open Space)and that It conflicts with the purpose of Open Space. (comments In ita/ics) 1.proposed Bike park is like a skate park Por mountain bikes and does not belong 1n open space. The constructed structure so far is about six li:eet wide and over 140 feet long with section up to six feet tall. This does not take into account any additional proposed construction and staging areas Regulations. 12.22.020 Purpose of open space lands. A. The city of San Luis Obispo has developed a system of open space lands within and surrounding the community which is an important part of the community's setting, providing a number of opportunities for enjoyment of the natural environment by our citizens. Consistent with the open space element of the city's general plan, open space lands have been acquired (both in fee and through easements) for specific purposes, such as protection of scenic character, wildlife habitat values, passive recreation and agriculture. The open space element principles state that uses on open space lands owned or managed by the city! 1.Should preserve the natural amenities of the open space land; 2.May not include uses which would degrade or significantly impact resource preservation on-site or on an adjacent parcel; C.Lands acquired or otherwise controlled by the city for open space purposes are not considered to be parks(as"parks"are defined in Chapter 12.20 of the Municipal Code)and shall not be construed to beappropriate for,or used for,structured recreation,such as team sports,large gatherings or other Intensive uses of the property or site. COSE APPENDD(C:MANAGEMENT OF OPEN SPACE LANDS 3.On open space land that the City manages,the City may dedde to permit more than one type of activity or use.Where different uses may not be compatible,the following priorities will guide decisions.The Items listed under a priority heading are co-equal.(Land uses are subject to any deed restrictions placed by owners conveying land to the City for open space purposes,and to easements or rights retained by others.) Priority 1 •Protection of existing wildlife and natural habitat generally. •Protection of existing listed species and their existing habitat,or re-establishment of such habitat where damaged. hnps://mail.slocity.org/exchange/slocitycouncil/Inbox/Stenner%2OS prings%2ODraft%d 20C... 9/14/2009 • n Page 2 of 5 •Protection of public resources such as water quality(watershed runoff and groundwater recharge). •Avoidance of threats to public health and safety,such as ground instability(In the case of vegetation management for wildland fire,separation between hazardous vegetation and structures generally should be provided on the land containing the structure,by the owner of the land containing the structure. Where vegetation management on City-owned land Is needed or desirable,management practices will minimize harm to wildlife habitat and scenic resources). Priority 2 •Public access and passive recreation. •Protection of scenic resources. Priority 3 •Scientific study. •Agricultural production. Guidelines Glossary Active Recreation All forms of high intensity recreation not consistent with the adopted definition of passive recreation at described in the Open Space Element(OS Def-5)of the City's general plan(includes:horse riding; biking;and team events) Passive Recreation Low-intensity recreational activities such as hiking,bird-watching,nature photography,trails,Individual picnic areas,nature study,viewing stations,interpretive areas,and similar uses(OS-Def 5). Z Bike ParkPonding should be part of the Parks and Recreation budget/Ponding,like skate park Ponding As,not Natural Resources funding. 3.Sebe a precedent that others may use. 4 A Bike Park should not be In Opgn oB It a rural panic or something else,but not Open Space S.Li i —this issue was brought up and discussed at length at the public meeting on lune 2,2008. WY71 there be a bond?Now large of bond?Who is responsible lorsetting maintenance standards,maintainio_q,remova4 safety,rescue,emergency medical serv=o monitoring ofacbWities and use of safety equipment,etc? &AAWL ty and Am%Mkffiw—this is outside the city limits how can the city enforce regulations?What does the city attorney say?The County Shernfl?Would employees be operating outside of their scope of employment to enforce Open Space regulations? Guidelines 4.2 Human Activities and Impacts Objectives: Provide the public with a safe and pleasing natural environment in which to pursue passive recreational activities,while maintaining the integrity of the resource and minimizing the Impact on the wildlife and habitat. Guidelines Polides:General Special events(e.g.competitive races,weddings or memorials)should not be permitted on City-owned open space(i1A14) Z Netahbors—will this become an attracterrtthat will cause problems for neighbors(Forest service,Cal Poly and S Zenner Ranch)?What do they think? g —the Bike Park Is dose to the habitat of red leg hugs,a listed species Other topics; https:Hmail.slocity.org/exchange/slocitycounciUlnbox/Stenner%20Springs%2ODraft%20C... 9/14/2009 Page 3 of 5 A. Leve/ofAeneotable Crianoe—This Issue Is not addressed In the Draft Plan. The Guidelines call for this to be included. Guidelines 5.5 Needs Analysis A description of current recreational activity levels,participation patterns,and trends likely to affect activity levels In the future.Recommendations on changes that need to occur to meet future.goals(e.g.,new trails or trallheads).Description of adopted Limits of Acceptable Change for the.site,and Identification of remedial measures that should be implemented if these limits are exceeded. Limits of Acceptable Change(LAC's)A planning tool that establishes explicit measures of acceptable and appropriate resource conditions,as well as strategies for maintaining or achieving those desired conditions B.HM—Because of the more isolated location and use of the Stenner Springs,It h all the more important to have a Are plan. r suggest that it tie in with the adjacent Forest Service plana with resource protection notations. Guidelines Flre Management The City will formulate Wildfire Preparedness Plans for Individual open space parcels with the cooperation of the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. C Grazfirg—More protective measures to protect resounaeg,especially riparian habitats Since the area is not Open Range,it k the responsibility of the livestock owner to control their livestcc r and keep them from trespassing.Require lrvestocir owners to pay lbrany fencing or that they/fence their land or control their livestoct so as not to trespasx. Wildlife Report Discussion paragraph 6 Cattle grazing Is another activity that disturbs vegetation and can result In the localized degradation of wildlife habitat values,particularly when cattle are allowed in riparian areas.The SSNR was not being used as rangeland for cattle during the survey period, however,hoof prints and other signs of recent use by cattle were observed.Cattle grazing is sometimes used as a management tool in non-native annual grasslands to promote the recovery of native grasses and forbs.However,cattle degrade habitat within riparian areas if they are allowed access.If cattle grazing is a desired use or management tool within the SSNR then fenced pastures should be constructed for rotational management of annual grasslands.Cattle should not be allowed access to riparian areas,seeps and springs,serpentine outcrops,or chaparral-coastal scrub habitats because of the sensitivity of biological and botanical resources in these areas. D.Aouatic Resources and non natives—Manage all aquatic resources fora huffy functioning natural ecosystem for native species Remove water diversions and acquire water rights Remove non native species,Induding eucalyptus.Prevent mil erosion,especially Into riparian areas. Wildlife Report Discussion The combination of soils,moderateto steep grade,and high level of usage make erosion the primary management challenge within the SSNR.Much of the SSNR is located on steep slopes that support dense chaparral vegetation.Currently there are only a few trails through these areas.However,the existing trails sustain a relatively high level of recreational use by mountain bikers,and to a lesser extent by hikers.Lower elevation areas on the eastern parcels(Parcel 1 and Parcel 2)have a more moderate grade but also have a greater number of trails,some of which cross riparian corridors or have been routed straight down the slope of hills(perpendicular to the elevation contours).Erosion problems are currently evident along some of the existing trails and in/adjacent to the areas that have been cleared for the Nacimiento water pipeline.Severe rill erosion exists on old jeep tracks on Parcel 3 and Parcel 4.Erosion generally results In Increased sediment deposition In streams and aquatic habitat down slope of the eroding area.This sediment deposition adversely impacts habitat within the SSNR for sensitive aquatic species like the Califomla red-legged frog and Coast Range newt.The Increased sediment load would also adversely impact creek habitat downstream of the SSNR.Both Stenner Creek and Chorro Creek provide Important habitat for a number of special status aquatic species Including spawning and nursery habitat for the federally threatened South-central California Coast distinct population segment(DPS)of steelhead(Ontnrhynrhusmyk1A. A number of small bridges and platforms have already been constructed within the SSNR to route trails over,instead of through,seasonal and perennial watercourses,thereby greatly reducing impacts to aquatic habitats.There are a few areas where additional platforms could be built to further reduce erosion Impacts at watercourse crossings.There are additional measures that could be Incorporated into trails through chaparral areas that would help reduce or minimae erosion.Incorporating and maintaining erosion control measures such as water bars Into existing authorised trails should help minimize problems. New trails should be well planned and constructed and existing trails that traverse steep grades at angles perpendicular to the slope should be abandoned where possible.These existing steep trails are not only highly prone to erosion but also appear to cause potentially Injurious falls among mountain bikers, https://mail.slocity.org/exchange/slocitycouncil/Inbox/Stenner%20Springs%20Draft%20C... 9/14/2009 Page 4 of 5 • i which may create a liability for the City.Efforts should be made to encourage fidelity to authorized trails and limit the proliferation of unauthorized trails and shortcuts.Such efforts might Include the Installation of fencing across existing unauthorized trails and adding placards to existing trail markers reminding visitors to stay on authorized trails.Periodic enforcement efforts targeting visitors who stray from authorized trails may help get the word out that use of unauthorized trails Is not tolerated. The establishment and spread of Invasive plants is another management concern.Among the non-native plants present within the SSNR are a number of Invastve thistles such as the yellow star thistle,purple star thistle,and tocolote have colonized disturbed areas along trails,roads,and In pipeline corridors.These noxious species will continue to spread and degrade resource values unless control/management measures are Implemented.A related Issue Is the continued expansion of the stands of non- native,invasive Eucalyptustrees within the SSNR.The stands of Eucalyptustrees on the property continue to expand Into adjacent coast live oak-riparian woodland,grassland,and chaparral-coastal scrub habitat,and Individual Eucalyptustrees have colonized other areas within the riparian corridor.Although active raptor nests were not observed during surveys,individual large Eucalyptustrees within the established stands may have some habitat value for nesting raptors.However,a significant majority of trees within the stands are small(less than 12 Inches dbh[diameter at breast height])and currently have no value for nesting raptors.The removal of many of the small Eucalyptustrees within the stands and all of the Eucalyptustrees that have colonized the riparian corridor will favor existing native plant communities,check the expansion of the stands,and reduce the habitat degradation caused by this invasive species.Provisions for the control and management of Eucalyptus trees within the SSNR should be considered In development of the management plan. E.Annexation—Annex StennerSprings Into city limits as soon as possible.Cfarily ownersh/p and regulations F.CW-I think the cost estimates are too low.Does not Include staffing cost With the recently open Johnson Ranch Open Space,it has city rangers covering a huge area With no staffing increase. The CO budget has been shrinking noticeably. C%Bike rrail mainAenanae—The Draft Plan proposes W maintain bike trails through Forest Service lands from Cuesta Ridge down to SteanerSprings Ill there are people or groups that want to do this,they should work through the forest Service not have the City do it What are the cost7S7af time?In this budget worW H.midlife 9W&section D/scussion—this section is a summary of what the field report by scientists from renes Environmental found fam on site visits they list eros/on as the most serious issue.Incorporate all their recommendations into the Draft Plan, especially erasion co17tro4 grazing,11017 native species,and aquatic protecthur In Summary Remove Bike Park from Draft Plan and find an appropriate location and funding.not Open Space.Have structure removed. Add and clarify,sections on: Level of Acceptable Change EN Grazin Acuatic Resources and non natives Annexation C= Bike trail maintenance Wildlife ReWrL sedlon Discussion Sincerely, Don Dollar SLO ddollar0pacbeli.net hnps://mail.slocity.org/exchange/slocitycouncil/Inbox/Stenner%2OSprings%2ODraft%20C... 9/14/2009 SANTA LUCIA CHAPTER RECEIVED P.O. Box 15755 • San Luis Obispo,California 93406 SFP 14 2009 Phone: (805) 543-8717 • Fax: (805) 543-8727 http://www.sierraclub.org/chapters/s-antalucia SLO CITY CLERK SIERRA 6 CLUB OUNCIL �D D DIR FOUNDED 1892 I CAO FIN DIR ACRO IRE CHIEF ATTORNEY W DIR September 14,2009 LERK/ONIf3 POLICE CHF CDEPTT HEADS ja REC DIR UTIL DIFi San Luis Obispo City CoHeil-T-&� _ 1'R N'1_ � /V,9V T/— iC ela cwpe��- `G !TY iL Re: Skills Area/Bike Park in natural Open Space, K L't7'/CL�K roc September 15 Council Meeting RED FILE. MEETING AGENDA Dear Mayor and Honorable Members of the City Council, DAT 9 is/OATEN #e 3 We have concerns about locating a"Skills Area/Bike Park" in the City's natural Open Space, rather than the City's Parkland where active recreation is allowed. For clarification, the Planning Commission was told that"active recreation" is an allowed use in open space, and it is not. Their recommendation for a skills area/bike park was based on that erroneous information. It has been the long standing policy of the City to allow only passive recreation in open Space. (The 1994 Open Space Element , The 1998 Open Space Ordinace [attached]). During the recent adoption of the 2006 Conservation and Open Space Plan, staff proposed that open space uses not be restricted to passive recreation only. Neighborhood groups, environmental organizations and the public rose in fierce opposition to this proposal and it was retracted. This issue is once again being brought up with the proposed Skills Area/Bike Park because it is not clearly a"passive use" of open space. We have some questions; 1. The 2006 Conservation and Open Space Element allows only the passive use of open space. Bicycling is defined as a passive use that is allowed"as permitted and regulated in the Open Space Ordinance" (2006 Conservation and Open Space Element, 8.24.5). The Open Space Ordinace states, "Lands acquired or otherwise controlled by the City for open space purposes are not considered to be parks (as parks are defined in Chapter 12.20 of the Municipal Code) and shall not be construed to be appropriate for, or used for, structured recreation, such as team sports,large gatherings or other intensive uses of the the property or site." ...To explore, enjoy, and protect the nation's scenic resources... The Council must therefore answer the following questions: A. Is the proposed Skills Area/Bike Park consistent with the 2006 Conservation and_Open Space Element and 1998 Open Space Ordinance? Specifically; B. Is a bicycle skills area/Bike park an "intensive use of the site"? C. Is a bicycle skills area/bike park a structured recreation" area? D. How will team sports, large gatherings, or other intensive uses of the site be specifically prohibited? E. How will the City enforce the prohibition on team sports, large gatherings, or intensive uses of the site? F. The Staff report refers to "a formal agreement for the the construction and operation(of the Skills Area/Bike Park) with a qualified operating entity", and"this will include review by City staff(including the City Attorney) to ensure that the City is protected from liability and that the facility is properly engineered and installed". How will any agreements also include prohibition of team sports, large gatherings or other intensive use of the site, and guarantee the prohibition of these activities?How will any agreements be linked to the Open Space Ordinance and 2006 Conservation and Open Space Element and the Open Space Ordinance? G. How much will it cost the city to enforce the prohibition on team sports, large gatherings, or intensive uses of the site? 2. A Skills Area/Bike Park is clearly appropriate in "parkland"which is easily accessible to the public. As you are considering allowing a Skills Area/Bike Park in the City's natural Open Space (rather than in Parkland), and in an relatively isolated area of Open Space, how will you control it from becoming a commercialized "tourist attraction"with the attendant impacts of heavier through traffic in more fragile open space and the attendant liability for the City for commercialized tourist use? Sincerely, Andrew Christie Chapter Director k.114YLcr it.t[UMN JYAL;h KWULATIONS http://www.codepubrcom/dtSearch/dtisapi6.d11?cmd=getdoc. 1 (119 hits) Chapter 12.22 OPEN SPACE REGULATIONS Sections: 12.22.010 Title. 2.22.020 Purpose of open space lands. 12.22.030 Classification of open space lands. 12.22.040 Definitions. 12.22.050 Rules and regulations applicable in city open space lands. 12.22.060 Enforcement. 12.22.070 Compliance with regulations required. 12.22.010 Title. The ordinance codified in this chapter shall be known as the open space ordinance of the city of San Luis Obispo. (Ord. 1332§ 1 (part), 1998) 12.22.020 Purpose of open space lands. A. The city of San Luis Obispo has developed a system of open space lands within and surrounding the community which is an important part of the community's setting, providing a number of opportunities for enjoyment of the natural environment by our citizens. Consistent with the open space element of the city's general plan, open space lands have been acquired (both in fee and through easements)for specific purposes; such as protection of scenic character, wildlife habitat values, passive recreation and agriculture. The open space element principles state that uses on open space lands owned or managed by the city: 1. Should preserve the natural amenities of the open space land; 2. May not include uses which would degrade or significantly impact resource preservation on-site or on an adjacent parcel; 3. May consist of the following uses provided allowed uses are compatible with the purpose of the open space land: a. Conservation of soil, vegetation, water, fish, and/or wildlife. b. Passive recreation, including open areas, trails, viewing stations, hiking, horseback riding, swimming, fishing, photography, painting, sketching and other similar day recreation use. c. Interpretation and scientific study of the natural environment. t. d. Grazing, farming, growing of nursery stock, gardening, and harvesting crops. e. Landscape or wildlife restoration and enhancement programs where the natural landscape has been altered or degraded. Such programs may include restrictions on public access. B. This chapter has been duly established by the city council of the city of San Luis Obispo in keeping with the principles stated above. C. Lands acquired or otherwise controlled by the city for open space purposes are not considered to be parks (as "parks" are defined in Chapter 12.20 of the Municipal Code) and shall not be construed to be appropriate for, or used for, structured recreation, such as team sports, large gatherings or other intensive uses of the property or site. D. These regulations shall apply to lands owned in fee or otherwise controlled by the city of San Luis Obispo, both within and outside of the city limits. (Ord. 1332 § 1 (part), 1998) 12.22.030 Classification of open space lands. The city council shall have the authority to classify open space lands as (1) open space or �f� Unapter 12.22 OPEN SPACE REGULATIONS http://www.codepolishin&com/dtSearch/dtisapi6.dll?cmd=getdoc. (2)ecological area. "Open space"shall be utilized primarily for scenic and wildlife habitat purposes and for passive recreation. "Ecological areas" shall be primarily utilized for their wildlife habitat or � ercological values and maybe subject to restrictions upon, or prohibition of, public access. One or more contiguous open space lands may also be combined as a natural reserve, reflecting differing types of acquisition that may be involved in assembling such contiguous parcels. (Ord. 1332 § 1 (part); 1998) 12.22.040 Definitions. The following terms are defined as follows for purposes of this chapter. A. "Amplified sound" means music, sound wave, vibration or speech projected or transmitted by electronic equipment, including amplifiers. B. "Director" means the director of parks and recreation or other person authorized by him or her, pursuant to law, to act in his or her stead. C. "Climbing area" means an area within a city open space land suitable for, and designated for, climbing with the use of ropes, climbing bolts, and other specialized equipment. D. "Open space lands" means any lands owned by the city designated as either"open space" or"ecological area," including accessories thereto maintained and operated by the city of San Luis Obispo. E. "Permit" means written authorization for specific uses of open space lands, or portions thereof, as provided for and defined in this chapter.. F. "Vehicle" means any device by which any person or property may be propelled, moved or drawn, excepting a device moved by human power. G. "Trail" means an improved passage for persons, animals, or vehicles, maintained in a manner to be reasonably safe for such passage for such pentons, animals or vehicles, as may be appropriate. H. "Natural reserve" means an area of one or more open space lands, which may be managed as a unit by the city or in conjunction with other agencies. (Ord. 1332 § 1 (part), 1998; prior code§4226.1) 12.22.050 Rules and regulations applicable in city open space lands. The following rules and regulations apply in all open space lands within or under the control of the city of San Luis Obispo, unless expressly stated otherwise elsewhere in this chapter. . A. Resources Protected. All natural and cultural resources (including, but not limited to, all naturally occurring plants and animals, prehistoric and historic artifacts, structures, and remains of structures)within city open space lands are protected, and no person shall collect, gather, or otherwise disturb any natural or cultural resources found therein, except for pruning or removal of materials in conjunction with city-sponsored activities, such as trail construction or maintenance or for collection of specimens for research or educational purposes as permitted in advance by the city. B. Presence in Open Space Lands Restricted to Certain Hours—No Overnight Usage. Open space lands where public access is permitted shall be open to the public from dawn to dusk It shall be unlawful to enter or remain within such lands between one hour after sunset and one hour before sunrise of the following day without approval from the director. C. Authority to Close.Any section or part of the city's open space lands may be declared closed to the public by the director at any time and for any interval of time, either temporarily or at regular and stated intervals (daily or otherwise), and either entirely or merely to certain uses, as the director finds reasonably necessary. D. Operation of Vehicles and Bicycles. 1. No person shall drive or otherwise operate a vehicle on city open space lands or upon surfaces other than those maintained for purposes of vehicular travel, except upon temporary parking areas as may be designated from time to time by the director. Vehicles in the service of the city while upon their official duties are exempt. The provisions of the California Vehicle Code are applicable in the city open space lands which is publicly )nfc Chapter 12.22 OPEN SPACE REGULATIONS http://www.codepubliibm .coni/dLSearch/dtisapi6.dll?cmd=getdoc... maintained and open to the use of the public for purposes of vehicular travel All violations of the Vehicle Code shall be enforced and prosecuted in accordance with the provisions thereof. 2. Use of bicycles on city open space lands is restricted to areas and trails designated for bicyce use. Solicitation Prohibited. No person shall practice, carry on, conduct, or solicit for any occupation, business, or profession in any city open space land, or sell or offer for sale any merchandise, article, or anything whatsoever. This subsection shall not apply to any person acting pursuant to a contract with the city or under an authorization granted by the director. F. Restrictions Upon Animals in Open Space Lands. 1. No person shall cause, permit, or allow arty animal owned or possessed by him or her or any animal in his or her custody or control to be present in open space lands except: a. Equine animals being led or ridden under reasonable control upon any bridle paths or trails; provided, that they are designated and identified for such purposes; b. Equine or other animals which are hitched or fastened at a place expressly designated for such purpose; c. Dogs or cats when led by a cord or chain not more than six feet long; d. Dogs which have been specially trained and are being used by blind or disabled persons to aid and guide them in their movements; e. Small pets which are kept on the person of the possessor at all times; f. In connection with activities authorized in writing by the director, g.Animals in the open space for grazing purposes pursuant to an agreement approved by the city council. 2. The director may prohibit animals in certain posted areas in city open space lands in the interest of public heath, safety, comfort, and welfare, orfor purposes of habitat protection. G. Duty to Care for and Control Animals. It shall be the mandatory duty of all persons owning, possessing, in control of, or otherwise responsible for a dog, a cat, or an equine animal in city open space lands to exercise proper care and control of such animal so as not to molest or menace any other person, domestic animal, wildlife, or livestock in or upon city open space lands. H. Sound Amplifiers Prohibited. 1. The council enacts this legislation for the sole purpose of securing and promoting the public health, comfort, safety, and welfare of its citizenry, and for the proper stewardship of city open space lands. While recognizing that certain uses of sound amplifying equipment are protected by the constitutional rights of freedom of speech and assembly, the council nevertheless feels obligated to reasonably regulate the use of sound amplifying equipment in order to protect the correlative constitutional rights of the citizens of this community to privacy and freedom from the public nuisance of loud and unnecessary sound. 2. It is unlawful for any person to install, use, and operate within city open space lands a loudspeaker or any sound amplifying equipment for the purposes of giving instructions, directions, talks, addresses, and lectures, or of transmitting music to any persons or assemblages of persons in city open space lands, except by authorized law enforcement, fire department, or park and recreational personnel for public safety or other informational purposes. I. Possession or Consumption of Alcohol Unlawful. It shall be unlawful for any person to possess or consume any alcoholic beverage in city open space lands. J. Non-Electric Power Boats Prohibited on Laguna Lake.Any boat containing any source of power other than sails or oars, or more than one electric motor, is prohibited from operating on the lake located in the southwesterly portion of the city, adjacent to Madonna Road, Los Osos Valley Road, and Foothill Boulevard, known as Laguna Lake. This section shall not apply to any boats authorized by the council for patrol or maintenance purposes. K. Skating and Use of Skating Equipment Prohibited in City Open Space Lands. Use of skateboards, rollerblades, or rollerskates in city open space lands is prohibited. L. Litter and Trash. Litter shall be disposed of properly. Disposal of trash or litter within or I of 5 .LLay�i 14.44 vrniv 3rAt,c icrvv1.AIIuNb http://www.codepublishing.com/dtSearch/ddsapi6.dll?cmd=getdoc.. upon city open space lands is prohibited. K Weapons, Paintballs, Fireworks and Fires Prohibited. Possession or discharge of weapons, firearms, paintballs, fireworks, or the building of fires is prohibited on city open spacelands. N. Climbing Only in Designated Areas and Routes—Waiver Required—Installation of New Bolts Prohibited without Authorization—Advisory Committee. 1. Rock-climbing is permitted only within specific designated areas on city open space lands. Said areas shall be identified by the director, who may also make reasonable rules concerning such use, including but not limited to requirements for waivers of liability as a condition of permission for such use. 2. No person shall set or install climbing bolts in any designated climbing area without the written approval of the director. 3. The director shall appoint a committee of persons interested in climbing to advise him or her on matters affecting designated climbing areas, including but not limited to reviewing requests for new climbing routes, inspections of climbing areas, climbing bolts installed therein, or other matters pertaining to the operation and maintenance of the area. O. Parasailing Permitted Only in Designated Areas and with Authorization—New Areas Prohibited without Authorization—Advisory Committee. 1. Parasailing is permitted only within specific designated areas on city open space lands. Said areas shall be identified by the director, who may also make reasonable rules concerning such use, including but not limited to requirements for waivers of liability, proof of insurance, and membership in the United States Hang Gliding Association as a condition of permission for such use. 2. Participants in parasailing events must wear appropriate head protection, carry a reserve chute, and must pass an on-site ground skills test. 3. The director shall appoint a committee of persons interested in climbing to advise him or her on matters affecting parasailing or other matters pertaining to the operation and maintenance of the area. P. Travel Generally Restricted to Designated Trails—No Trail Construction without Authorization. Travel in city open space lands is generally restricted to trails designated for such travel, and off-trail travel is prohibited in places where it is unsafe to so travel, or where such travel can result in erosion problems or resource damage. Furthermore, construction of new trails is prohibited except where authorized by the director as part of a trail improvement program for a given open space land. However, city open space lands are open to off-trail travel in areas where it is safe to do so and such travel is not damaging to the environment. (Ord. 1332 § 1 (part), 1998) 12.22.060 Enforcement The parks and recreation department, through its park rangers, shall have the primary responsibility for the enforcement of the provisions of this chapter. Park rangers and city police officers shall have the authority to cite individuals found to be in violation of the provisions of this chapter. In addition, other city staff involved in the maintenance and operation of city open space lands shall have the authority to enforce the provisions of this chapter. Violations under this chapter shall be designated as infractions. (Ord. 1410§3, 2002: Ord. 1332 § 1 (part), 1998) 12.22.070 Compliance with regulations required. It shall be unlawful to enter or remain in any open space unless there is compliance at all times with all of the regulations set forth in this chapter applicable to such lands and all other applicable laws, ordinances, rules, and regulations. (Ord. 1332 § 1 (part), 1998) 4 of 9/1/7009 11.19 AM • I 4� '`;•fid- - m ' � F n - �C "'r u 7:4- ¢ * f L4. iby- ��• '' t- 4 � �.' w �• �+�ch�R i .�- .", i f. ,.ii ash. d W Ki - /wh. •at a� ,�+'.�' n 3rwnN" E tiiE�.a „ +5�-�' yr^�,,.i-. ,�„�._.t r^^`$,f`'ur�^ -K�°. Y ^�" Sr u• IiWY crty of san Us oBispo conseuvation ana open space Element, apRII 2006 8.24.4. Fire prevention activities. Except in an emergency, fire prevention activities such as fuel clearance or thinning, grading, prescribed burns or other activities shall be_conducted pursuant to an approved Conservation Plan, and under the supervision of the Natural Resources Manager and Fire Marshall. Habitat preservation shall be given equal priority with fire prevention. _. . . r 4.5. Passive Recreation. T1ie City will consider allowing assive recreation where it will degrade or significantly impact open space resources and where there are no significant ghborhood compatibility impacts, in accordance with an approved open space conservation n. Passive recreation activities may include: hiking,nature study, bicycle use, rock climbing, seback riding or other passive recreational activities as permitted and regulated in the Dien ce Ordinance. 8.24.6. Determination of appropriate uses for City-owned open space. Determination of the appropriate land management practices and the recreational uses of City-owned open space lands shall be made on an area-specific basis, based upon the policies in the Conservation and Open Space Element, the Open Space Ordinance (SLOMC 12.22), and the adopted "Conservation Guidelines for City-Owned Open Space Lands." These policies, will be applied through the public planning and review process specified in the Conservation uidelines, and will guide the preparation and adoption,of conservation plans for City-owned open space properties. Goal &M. "Open.space "mitigation. The City will avoid the loss of open space and require mitigation for the loss of open space. Policies 8.25.1. Loss of open space. The City may permit loss of an open space resource as described in Goals 8.21 and 8.22 only when: A.. Preserving the resource would permanently deprive the landowner of all reasonable use, and acquisition by the City or a conservation organization is not feasible, or B. There is a demonstrated need, based on public x y r View of Cuesta Pass, looking north along State Highm*101 52 MY of san Luis osIspo conseuvation ano open space etement, apWL 2006 Goal 8.23. Open space for safety. Secure open space Generally,the following locations are considered to be unsafe: development would be unsafe. A. Areas within the most restrictive aviation safety zone as defined in Plan the Airport Land Use B. Land straddling active or potentially active earthquake faults. C. Land where risks of ground shaking, slope instability, settlement, or liquefaction cannot be adequately mitigated. D. Areas subject to flooding, where the frequency, depth;.or velocity of floodwaters poses an unacceptable risk to life,health, or property. E. Areas of high or extreme wildland fire hazard Policies 8.23.1. Open space for safety. The City will preserve as Open Space, or as Agriculture, the areas listed in Goal 8.23 and will encourage individuals, organizations, and other agencies to do likewise. (See also the Safety Element.) Goal 8.24• Open space access and restoration. The City intends to allow public access to~� open space that fosters knowledge and appreciation of open space resources with harming them and without exposing the public to unacceptable risk. e space and wi i e rtat, wi a sewn goal is to protect open —goal 0 providing passive recreation where it will ,._ not harm the environment. j -�. Policies 8.24.1. Public access. Public access to open space resources, with inter should be provided when doing so is pretive information, consistent with protection of the resources, and with the security and privacy of affected landowners and occupants. Access will generally be limited to non-vehicular movement, and may be visually or physically restricted in sensitive areas. Public access to or through production agricultural land, or throughdeveloped residential lots, will be considered only if the owner agrees (Land for active recreation is typically designated "Park" in 4. the General Plan Land Use Map). The City shall also.desi intended for human presence or activity. gnate °pen space areas.that are not 8.24.2. Creekside trails. Creekside trails shall not be established in or across from existing, substantially developed residential areas of the City (such as the San Luis Drive area) where such trails could create a compatibility or privacy conflict with surrounding land uses. _ 8.24.3. Open-space enhancement and restoration. The City will enhance and restore open space resources identified in Goals 8.21,18.22 and 8.23, and will encourage individuals, organizations and other agencies to do likewise. .51 city of san 1ws owspo.conseuvation anb open space element, apR112006 often the most appropriate uses. The Parks and Recreation Element consists of plans for indoor and outdoor recreational facilities primarily for active recreational uses, such as parks, playfields and community centers. 1.20 Use of Terms In the General Plan, a goal is a desired end state or condition that the community wants.to achieve. A policy describes an approach to achieving a goal. A,progam is a specific action the.. City intends to take to implement policy. Numbering of goats,policies and programs is for ease of refierence and does not imply retatii: importance unless so stated: As. used here, the terms "shall" or "will" are mandatory and mean that an action shall be taken or procedure, followed without exception. "Should" means that such an action or procedure will be followed unless there are significant,. countermanding reasons or factors that prevent or discourage implementation. The terms "encourage", "promote" and"support" are permissive and indicate a desirable, but not a mandatory action. They indicate intent to take action but are not linked to a specific time frame or work program. 130 Purpose San Luis Obispo residents are justly proud of their rich and diverse environmental setting. Creeks, hills,morros, valleys and farmland create a striking landscape which is home to a wide variety of plants and animals. These natural gifts form a distinctive city backdrop and help maintain the overall quality of life for all to enjoy. And unlike many other heavily urbanized areas, San Luis Obispo's environmental character and diversity remains. However, the City and - region's special character is threatened by development pressure that incrementally degrades special geographical, biological, geological and other natural resources. ` The Conservation and Open Space Element is a tool to protect and preserve these unique community resources. Its overarching goal is to protect resources (such as air and n. water, wildlife habitat, scenic and agricultural lands, watershed and historic features) with a secondary goal of accommodating passive recreation where it will not harm j the environment or interfere with agricultural operations. Reservoir Canyon waterfall San Luis Obispo's environmental quality is a preciousgift: 2 RECEIVFD SEP 10 2009 SCITY CLERK Background Information on the Central Coast Concerned Mountain Bikers' Interest in the Stenner Springs Conservation Plan CCCMB's Goal: 1. To support the adoption of the Stenner Springs conservation plan as drafted. 2. To have the plan accommodate appropriate, environmentally sensitive, legal and sustainable trails. 3. To have those possible trails include a"mountain bike skills area"project called FASTA. What is CCCMB: 1. A 22 year old volunteer organization made up of cyclists, equestrians &hikers 2. CCCMB's mission is to maintain existing trails in SLO County and to expand the network of sustainable and enjoyable trails. 3. Since 1987, CCCMB has worked with California State Parks,the National Forest Service, San Luis Obispo City and San Luis Obispo County maintaining,building, and designing trails. 4. CCCMB is funded by individuals,local foundations, local businesses, other local non- profits, PG&E &its employees, and grants from the International Mountain Bike Association. 5. CCCMB is an affiliate of the San Luis Obispo Parks Open Space and Trails foundation (SLOPOST) a 501c(3) as well as the International Mountain Bike Association (IMBA). What CCCMB Does: 1. Average well over 2000 hours of volunteer work each year for last 5 years and 1,500 for the ten years before that. 2. Maintain,design and construct trails for the City, State Parks, SLO County, the Forest Service and PG&E. For the City of SLO that includes all the trails in the Irish Hills Resource Area, Johnson Ranch trail on the Johnson Ranch, Lemon Grove Loop on Cerro San Luis and the Elevator Reroute on the Stenner property. 3. Partner with hikers and equestrians to promote the development of sustainable multi-use trails. 4. Educate the trails community on the issues involved in having sustainable trails and the etiquette of using multi-use trails. 5. Work to expand appropriate trail riding opportunities for cyclists and other users. Why Advocate for Trails in the Stenner Resource Area: 1. The Stenner Springs property is bordered on three sides by other public lands (i.e. Cal Poly&National Forest) 2. The property is very heavily used by cyclists because it is the nexus of several very popular mountain bike trails.. 3. Appropriately designed and constructed trails are the best way to protect the natural resources of the area while managing traditional and continued use by trail users. Nfr2D �oP`1 GY/ylA-iL I3�COUNCIL 21CDD DIR 2-eAt ci"Olc� E1'FIN DIR RED FILE E 4RA6ASVrun/AC-A. FIRE CHIEF - MEETING AGENDA 3"ATTORNEY ff PW DIR 0-CLERK/01RIG 2TOLICE CHF DATE 9 L15 k ITEM # B3 O DEPT HEADS SEC DIR 'GtTy /v(G2 C'rUTILDIR 1�ciC 2--HR DIR `�NfCcil'T77�I�S"� _ I 4. The"Eucalyptus area" of the property is an ideal site for a FASTA type trail experience. The Eucalyptus trees are non-native and allelopathic. The creation of a"skills area" would help clean up eucalyptus litter and facilitate the reestablishment of native plants. 5. The location is only accessible by serious cyclists as it requires several miles of steep riding to access. There is no chance of casual passersby. 6. There is a well established need for a FASTA type elevated trail experience across the nation and locally. 7. A FASTA type trail experience would provide a legal, safe, environmentally appropriate and sustainable alternative to nearby illegal trails in the National Forest. Hopefully its construction would allow for the closure and rehabilitation of those illegal,unsustainable trails which are heavily used and very environmentally damaging. 8. FASTA type elevated trails exist in many other parts of the country &world. 9. The FASTA project would utilize the help of IMBA and other trail organizations with experience in addressing inherent challenges. Other jurisdictions have successfully addressed liability, construction, maintenance and environmental issues in the creation of similar projects. 10. CCCMB and FASTA have the resources and experience necessary to meet the criteria and requirements the City of SLO would find necessary to establish. How would CCCMB & FASTA Deal with Reasonable City Concerns: 1. By working with the Natural Resource Manager and any other involved city officials. 2. By meeting City established conditions and following the prescribed process. We would expect that those conditions would revolve around, among other things, location criteria, environmental standards,risk management, liability, construction standards,maintenance and management. Addendum: The following is an illustration of how a thoughtfully designed and constructed trail has eliminated an illegal trespass problem and greatly reduced damage to natural resources. Cyclists have been using the Stenner Springs property for at least 25 years. Because the property is very steep, users climbing the ridge would trespass on adjoining private property to avoid going up the very steep and rutted access road/trail. When descending through the Stenner Springs property, cyclists would use the steep and rutted road/trail and contribute to serious erosion damage. After the purchase of the property, the City with considerable help from CCCMB designed and built a reroute of the steep and eroded trail. As a result of this new rideable and sustainable trail,users no longer trespass and very few people go down the old trail/road. Proposal for the Development of a Mountain Bike Skills Area within the Stenner Springs Open Space The development of a progressive mountain bike skills area is supported by the Freeride and Sustainable Trails Association(FASTA),the Central Coast Concerned Mountain Bikers(CCCMB),and the International Mountain Bicycling Association(IIVIBA)as well as many local business and citizens who see the need for such a trail in the San Luis Obispo area. FASTA: FASTA is a freeride trail building and advocacy club based in San Luis Obispo. FASTA was formed in 2008 when two Cal Poly Natural Resource Management students decided to combine their love and knowledge of the environment with their passion for Freeriding,and work to create safe,fun,and sustainable freeride trails around San Luis Obispo. From inception FASTA has worked to form strong relationships with other local mountain bike and outdoor clubs,the City of San Luis Obispo,and local businesses. Introduction Trail users of all types would benefit from the addition of a mountain bike specific skills area(aka freeriding). Such areas help to relieve congestion on existing trails,reduce the possibility of trail user conflicts,provide a safe, fun area for mountain bikers to improve their riding skills,and significantly help in reducing environmental pressures by discouraging illegal trail construction. In addition to these benefits to local trail users,many local businesses and cycling organizations would reap the benefits of the increased diversity of cycling opportunities this project would create. Today the diversity in mountain bike design allowed by advances in technology have opened the doors to a wide range of riding styles and thus,a diverse audience of riders. Mountain bikes are coming equipped with more and more suspension travel,making riding easier than ever and pushing riders to look for more technically challenging and innovative terrain. Currently,most established trails are designed for a wide range of users and often lack progressive elements designed to satisfy these new riding styles. This has led some dissatisfied local riders to build illegal trails which damage the environment. The best way to address these issues is to acknowledge the presence of this part of the cycling community and to develop a skills area which would accommodate their recreational needs in an environmentally appropriate and safe manner. What is a Mountain Bike Skills Area? The origins of freeride mountain biking reach back into the early 1990's. This niche of riding was born in the densely wooded forests of British Columbia. There trail builders were unable to cut trail through the thickly covered forest floor and wetland areas,so they shifted their focus to elevated trail. They did this by constructing boardwalks just a few feet above the ground,which meandered through the forest. Eventually builders began adding skinny sections, drops,teeter-totters, and other challenging features. As more riders began to experience this new and exciting form of mountain biking word began to spread of this new trail building technique. Soon these trails spread to every part of the globe and spawned a new style of mountain biking known as `freeriding'. This style of riding is what a mountain bike skills area is modeled after. It provides progressive riding opportunities for all abilities of mountain bikers, yet does so in a manner that minimizes negative impacts to the I It 1 1• "1 I I 1 1 "1 • •• - - - 1 t• 1" 1 •- • - 1 • 1 CM Y Jiy 4-.w �J_ •I�^ C j S'� r rf t•:...ksd al:_r_ 1 r ` `dh � `�' �� ,� '1�•b ' o� rta'"j'�:iM1 `� �'yr"""II� �s �� \ Y• '•I"'r 1 r} t�.fal �1. Ir� 1 � j . i-•y�,.':r h�j�ti+"'Y.i � y 1 i �1 �FJagyr �j {� 1 H '.y'+��r { �'? t .I �"".>.`<..ry.�s•i� _ , } •;f •" j l ��./� 45 (� ems-. T��I� i+ 1 FLi t t�1 o•a! 1 ! h ✓;ca•J�•t+�' _ r�, " I' 3�� r��}J ,'f ��1�?}I}Iit.:J it r/ ' 4 r ty��y� � hJ.�. . ./i '1: x.r�J•.'�~ � i"•. t➢'. hw J r �/1 �' �rtl. ��<'1!l7 � T art' ✓ � O /! � 1 � -• lK i ,.�� - 'SSI ` - 4 r rwe ti•G+'S hy+•. . . �. , '< t b:,-R�"'+;�q��"1 ° r�+{C � •s„1, 7r?.:- r":�,r4xS.y:�-mi"1��_'�"'3s � 1 . Heg r ys! ; tzel x ; 1 1 1 1 � 11 1 1 1 I I 1 1 I I •11/"1 /1• t"•• t •1111 1 - - •- - - -1 '• 1 "1 11 1 1 • "• • • J 2 I 1 3. A lack of progression in local trail design has fueled illegal trail construction and modification which can lead to significant long term environmental damage. The development of a progressive mountain bike skills area encourages would-be illegal trail builders to join local mountain bike organization and be a part of legal progressive trail development. 4. Illegal trail construction tends to produce trail and trail features of very low quality,which can lead to more frequent injury to riders. A progressive mountain bike skills area would eliminate the need to use those illegal trails and provide riders with opportunities to expand their abilities in a safe,well designed area. Just a Sample of the Benefits of a Mountain Bike Skills Area 1. Mountain bikers of all types and skill levels can ride in a safe,positive,and exciting environment. 2.Building a mountain bike-specific riding area will help to decrease the likelihood of trail use conflicts. 3.A skills area would provide a location and an opportunity to educate cyclists about trail etiquette,and environmental protection. 4. It will make technical mountain biking accessible to every member of our community. 5. It can build a sense of community and stewardship for all bike riders and volunteers. 6. Encouraging more people to ride bikes is good for public and global health. Who Will Build and Maintain the Mountain Bike Skills Area? 1. Before design and/or construction is begun a Trail Management Plan will be developed by FASTA and CCCMB in conjunction with the City of SLO and approved by the City. That Management Plan will be based on "best practices"as well as other management plans in place for similar projects across the continent. It will address significant issues including safety, construction,maintenance and legal exposure. FASTA and CCCMB will utilize the resources of the International Mountain Bike Association which has considerable experience and expertise in this field. 2. Trail building is serious business and requires proper planning,equipment and labor. Depending on the availability of grants,construction will be a combined effort of FASTA and CCCMB volunteers and professionals -under the supervision of SLO City staff. All construction will be done in compliance with the adopted Trail Management Plan. 3. Maintenance will be performed by the combined efforts of FASTA and CCCMB-under the supervision of SLO City staff in accordance with the adopted Trail Management Plan. Who will Pay for the Mountain Bike Skills Area? 1.Trail building grants are available from many cycling advocacy organizations as well as the state and federal government. Targeted grants for the project include those from the California Recreational Trails Program,Bikes Belong,and the Kona Bicycle Company among others. 2. Fundraising,private party sponsorship,and donations will also play a part. Where will the Mountain Bike Skills Area be Built? The recently acquired Steiner Springs Open Space is the proposed location for the mountain bike skills area.. Specifically,within the non-native grove of Eucalyptus trees on the property. What makes this site appropriate for a Mountain Bike Skills Area? 1.The proposed location of the project is at the junction of several well established multi-use trails used primarily by mountain bikers. 2. The proximity to existing illegal trails in the National Forest and City property makes it an ideal location for diverting users from those illegal trails. 3. The proposed location of the project is at the base of the only two trails in San Luis Obispo that can be accessed via"shuttling", a practice often utilized by riders that this type of project directly targets. 4. The location of the proposed project site acts much like a filter for keeping unknowing users out of the site. For example, to reach the site one must negotiate several miles of trail from any direction. This helps to ensure that those using the site are doing so in a very intentional manner,helping to address legal exposure issues. 5. The location of the proposed project site exists within a Eucalyptus grove. Eucalyptus is a non-native, allelopathic tree species which can out-compete native vegetation. A project of this type can be designed to include the thinning or removal of certain trees,helping promote the growth of native trees and vegetation and reducing costs for land managers. 6. The location of the proposed project site has a single access road which would provide construction, maintenance,and emergency vehicles easy access to the project site. I ----Original Message----- From: Long, Christopher F Mr NGCA [mailtoxhristopher.longl7@us.ormy.mil] Sent: Monday, September 14,2009 2:28 PM To:Havlih, Neil Ca Balliet, Nicole M LTC NGCA, Sanders, Larry A MA1 NGCA; Ruiz, David 2LT NGCA- Spencer, Kenneth A CTR (Colorado State University) NGCA Subject CSLO DPTS comments on the SSNR Conservation Plan (UNCLASSIFIED) RECEIVED Classification: UNCLASSIFIED Caveats: NONE VP 14 2009 Hello Neil - SLO CITY CLERK The Directorate of Plans,Training and Security(DPTS) at Camp San Luis Obispo has consolidated comments on the Stenner Springs Conservation Plan draft (attached).These comments are focused on the safety and training perspective and are in addition to the comments already provided by our Conservation Branch. In short our main concern is on current and future trespass down range of the live fire impact area as well as eliminating any on-road collisions between training vehicles and bikers. Both of these concerns are not directed at the plan concepts for parcel 4 but rather for bikers not observing the installation boundary and moving beyond the proposed trail.That said, at this time staff believes the bike trail on parcel 4 is a compatible use and further it will give CSLO an opportunity to educate the riders that while this trail system is okay, Dairy Ch and others behind the impact area are off limits. We look:forward to your comments and future discussions regarding your proposed plans for the Stenner Springs Natural Reserve. V/R Chris COUNCIL 'CDD DIR Chris Long ICAO FIN DIR Camp San Luis Obispo �B ACAO ,FIRE CHIEF TEL 805-594-6575 0 ATTORNEY l�71PW DIR -P CLERKiORIG @'POLICE CHF DSN:84-630-6575 ❑ DEPT HEADS FeREC DIR FAX 805-594-6380 UTI L D I R Classification: UNCLASSIFIED -T�ecu,E _� -IR Mr, Caveats: NONEx c/E�v :��.Es r- C°ou" < x C�ry�6,z RED FILE 'WIEE ING AGENDA DATE y/ ITEM #_i&5__ r l - 1 m W 7,4 W V A W N (] W A W N O 3 N Nr CD C W m W W fD m O O cnm m 0 W m 3m�a 3 m n m W (T W v W m j m 00 a S 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 m m m m m m m to m 0 0 7 m -uD (a ;D -0 acmam D Dz nCl) -0 mD° F �m ^ CD ° a W W < m o ' "o m 3 m x a o m m e a W o = m m m m $ a m 3 a W m a < m $ o m m S < m 0 5 mmCD m m3 W m ° 8mW n 8mn3 7w m mm < _ mmc03 Soo 03 a °c < < Qw pQ w s° W m m OW 0-0 0.0 3 co � � $ � !0CL 10 0 $ E m m.0 = n » = m m CD CL 0m m. 3 < m.o0m m mea =r ma� nw= (C ID m m m m w a o o cS o m m w Z W C p 7c 0 S c > > m n 71? _ = S $ m p� moo 0 3 Q2 C, m m mCS mm = > >m34.mm Z $ O C f° m m m C)W O.r. m 0 0 A m m m m ?g W 3 CL 0 ca M mo3 m $ � '•�� v 3 m '05 Zm 0 mf -= 3mAo C m w m CO 0 >> O a .O m W O m^ m W 0 a- m a.,..9) $ p N 1 m om � o > mf3S� 05 0' 0' 2 w3 p1 mgmmm > n_�_a < Ll m 0w v x ° oc�+° 0 wm3o 01CD m3 i3a $ $ m �610 fD p 3mx o �a �mmm mD� ° 0 a � moQ� � W a 0 m 3:E �" o m ^� 0 om o mn' mo m W cxi w m A0 ° o y Zk m <-�.w$ m a m m 0 0 O Q'm � m mmm mm cmcm mo m ; 3m3 < >;� 0 � � m 3a - ° om0x$ a � o n3 maom � om $ 3 0 2 W �0 m mmo OW m >a 3 > > om'Z0cl CD 3 m ° a C mmm gm m ° < a Wm 3 CD 0 0 , mm mao � Al ca z.0 .. 0 0o W� m w� �� o m3m o =gmmn°w co � N m $ n W j m f'S O $ W C ? m a 0 ID m m O m a3 m � m == wm�< $ -SCSicrw,10 (� m m m r o 0 c m m M � `° om SF em � Q O mmm ' nm mx ° w O � go o ? A (CL ID0 Amo m °•mQ� yo 3 Fm Sr m o d m W d m m c $ ma o�m O=o N m m _ c m 3 wo nW a 0 0 01 � w m Z n�c3 al 3 = c m W e ro m wa, o W a_ y0 a rM 0a Q 0 :m m mm m m, r o m W O m - <m m m m m =r a=Q a c > m 0 7 amt° W e S W , c S -� ;� 0 S mn m 'S 'cm �0 wm c $ mmmmm0 3 ma m alma f = m 3In 2 m -030: m nmm � 0 w ?nm' mo A m Q o 0 fn m m c m O v m a 0 RED FILE MEETING AGENDA Q�IIIIIIIII��IIIIIIIIII9 i5 ITEM •""�'' council memoianb9 Icity of san Luis oB}s o:Aamrnmtnation -T gIVZnt _ g a CTCOUNCIL E CDD DIR DATE: September 15, 2009 RECEIVED E5 GA&u14n -FIN DIR n'AGA9,1S-Tca7mr-2-FIRE CHIEF TO: City Council SEP 15 2009 ETATTORNEY aPW DIR LERK/ORIG 2-POLICECHF SL YQTY CLERK EPTHEADS Q"RECOIR FROM: Shelly Stanwyck,Assistant i y anager CY�� G;"UTIL DIR Prepared by: Neil Havlik,Natural Resources Manager `�� ErHR rq i Mew nm&r _ 010 VemL � e rr+' /HG2 SUBJECT: Correspondence from the Sierra Club Regarding Agenda Item B-3, the e[c7rlc — Stenner Springs Conservation Plan A letter from Andrew Christie, Chapter Director of the Santa Lucia Chapter of the Sierra Club, was received on September 14, 2009. This letter poses several questions about the mountain bike "skills area" proposed as part of the Stenner Springs Conservation Plan. Staff's answers to those questions are provided below. Question. Is the proposed skills area/bike park consistent with the 2006 Conservation and Open Space Element and 1998 Open Space Ordinance? Answer. Yes. The 2006 COSE includes "bicycle use"in its definition of passive recreation (8.24.5) Question. Is a skills area/bike park an "intensive use of the site"? Answer. No. "Intensive" is a relative term and whether a use is considered"intensive," or not, depends upon the point of view of the individual and many other factors. However,this use is located in a specific spot adjacent to a service road which receives daily motor vehicle usage and is alongside two important and heavily used recreational trails. Thus staff does not perceive the proposed use as "intensive." Question. Is a bicycle skills area/bike park a structured recreation area? Answer. No. "Structured recreation"refers to team sports and the physical and relational structure among the participants (i.e., teams and players on the team). Question. How will team sports,large gatherings, or other intensive uses of the site be specifically prohibited? Answer. They are prohibited now by virtue of the open space ordinance. Further, mountain bike skills areas are typically used by individuals seeking to improve their"skills." Question. How will the City enforce the prohibition on team sports, large gatherings, or intensive uses of the site? Answer. The activities listed above are monitored and enforced by the City's Rangers who patrol this and other City properties on a regular basis. To date the City has not issued a single violation of this prohibition City open space lands. This includes the designated rock climbing area at Bishop Peak, the most directly analogous use. Question. The staff report refers to "a formal agreement for the construction and operation (of the Skills Area/Bike Park)with a qualified operating entity" and "this will include review by City staff(including the City Attorney) to ensure that the City is protected from Liability and that the facility is properly engineered and installed". How will any agreements also include prohibition of team sports, large gatherings or other intensive use of the site, and guarantee the prohibition of these activities? How will any agreements be linked to the Open Space Ordinance and 2006 Conservation and Open Space Element and the Open Space Ordinance? Answer. Such items can be easily incorporated into the agreement, as can references to the underlying policies discussed above. Question. How much will it cost the city to enforce the prohibition on team sports,large gatherings,or intensive uses of the site? Answer. The patrol by the Rangers of this site is an ongoing and existing cost. The adoption of this Conservation Plan is not expected to materially change this cost. Primary responsibility for ensuring proper use of the skills area will be by the "operating entity." Therefore the cost to the City is considered low and within existing budget. Question. A Skills Area/Bike Park is clearly appropriate in "parkland"which is easily accessible to the public. As you are considering allowing a Skills Area/Bike Park in the City's natural Open Space (rather than in Parkland) and in a relatively isolated area of Open Space, how will you control it from becoming a commercialized"tourist attraction" with the attendant impacts of heavier through traffic in more fragile open space and the attendant liability for the City for commercialized tourist use? Answer. The technical nature of the use is inviting to mountain bikers, however, staff does not see the site's visitation increasing significantly because of the remote location and the attendant challenges inherent in getting to the site. The location along a busy trail is part of the experience of the use and, while such sites can and do occur in urban settings, they are much more valuable to the operating entity and to the users in more natural surroundings. The site is not foreseen as a significant "tourist attraction,"and would not be advertised as such.