HomeMy WebLinkAbout07/19/2011, B 3 - ADOPTION OF THE CONSERVATION PLAN UPDATE FOR IRISH HILLS NATURAL RESERVE, AND ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMI C)
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CITY O F SAN LUIS 0 B I S P O
FROM: Michael Codron, Assistant City Manager
Prepared By: Neil Havlik, Natural Resources Manager
SUBJECT: ADOPTION OF THE CONSERVATION PLAN UPDATE FOR IRISH
HILLS NATURAL RESERVE, AND ENVIRONMENTAL
DETERMINATION
RECOMMENDATION
As recommended by the Planning Commission and the Parks and Recreation Commission:
1. Approve a resolution adopting the Conservation Plan Update for Irish Hills Natural
Reserve; and
2. Approve a Mitigated Negative Declaration of environmental impact for the Update.
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 planning, 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 Irish Hills Natural
Reserve Conservation Plan Update is the eighth plan of this type to be prepared and submitted to
the Council, and the first submitted as an update to an earlier plan.
Adoption of the Conservation Plan Update for Irish Hills Natural Reserve (IHNR) will guide the
management and development of the Reserve over the next five to seven years. The first
Conservation Plan for IHNR was adopted in 2003, and since that time staff have undertaken a
number of implementation activities within the Reserve. At that time the Reserve totaled
approximately 700 acres. In 2010, however, purchase of the 310 acre Froom Ranch and
conclusion of a management agreement with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) for a 78
acre parcel of BLM land adjacent to Froom Ranch increased the size of IHNR to 1,090 acres
(making it the largest of the City's open space lands) and led to the need to integrate the new
property into IHNR. The result is the first "update" of a Conservation Plan covering one of the
City's open space lands to be developed and brought forward for public review and
consideration.
IHNR is situated on the eastern margin of the Irish Hills (also known as the San Luis Range),
which is a range of hills lying between the City of San Luis Obispo and the Pacific Ocean. A
large portion of the Irish Hills is protected land either through Federal, State,municipal, or public
utility ownership, or large agricultural holdings; many with conservation easements on them.
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IHNR itself is largely underlain by serpentine rocks, which have given rise to the unusual soil
conditions and unique vegetation generally associated with serpentine. Vegetation consists
primarily of chaparral, with some areas of grassland and oak woodland and small areas of
riparian woodland along the two perennial creeks. These creeks, Prefumo Creek and Froom
Creek, cross portions of IHNR, and both are known to contain populations of the threatened
southern steelhead. IHNR is a popular hiking and biking destination, and currently has around
six miles of trails within it; the addition of the Froom Ranch and BLM parcels will ultimately
add approximately 3.5 miles of new trails to this system and create a number of interesting and
attractive loop trail opportunities. Primary access to the Reserve is at a trailhead at the western
end of Madonna Road, with a secondary access on Prefizmo Canyon Road.
The Update continues the implementation of numerous policies of the City of San Luis Obispo
designed to ensure that the use of City-owned open space lands is consistent with environmental
protection, and activities undertaken in those lands conform to the highest standards. This
approach was memorialized in 2002 with the adoption by of the "Conservation Guidelines for
Open Space Lands of the City of San Luis Obispo". The Guidelines set forth a procedure for
staff to follow in determining the natural resources of City-owned open space lands, and the uses
that are appropriate on those lands. The approach was further strengthened in 2006 with
adoption of the update Conservation and Open Space Element of the City's General Plan, which
continued to emphasize resource conservation as the primary goal of City open space land
ownership, with passive recreational uses subordinate to resource conservation.
The key feature of the Update is a series of provisions for passive recreation in the form of new
or upgraded trails for hikers and bicyclists. The proposed improvements under the plan include
approximately 3.5 miles of such trails that will add significantly to the recreational opportunities
that are offered at IHNR. Of the 3.5 miles, only about 1 to 1.5 miles would be truly new; the rest
will consist of pruning of vegetation, making drainage improvements, and other minor
adjustments to the existing system (especially old roads accessing the Froom Mine and BLM
parcel) to make them safe and usable for the public. In addition, in certain areas steep,
dangerous, or environmentally damaging trails will be closed or rerouted.
Important Natural and Cultural Features
IHNR contains a number of sensitive or otherwise important natural features, and one notable
cultural feature, including:
• Rare serpentine soils with unique plant and animal communities;
• Two perennial creeks (Froom Creek and Prefumo Creek) both of which cross portions of
the Reserve and are known to support populations of the threatened southern steelhead,
and several springs, some of which contain populations of an endangered plant species,
Chorro Creek bog thistle;
• Several other habitat types; including oak woodland and a planted eucalyptus grove;
• Habitat or potential habitat for other rare species;
• A major transmission line corridor crossing the Reserve for nearly two miles and
containing eight transmission towers;
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• A fairly large system of old roads and trails which can be adapted for passive recreational
use; and
• Remnants of pre-World War II mining activities for the mineral chromite, which was
used in stainless steel and other metal production.
Management issues or concerns associated with IHNR include:
• Proper restoration of damaged areas within the Reserve;
• Correction of erosion problems associated with some unauthorized trails and some overly
steep and erosion-prone trails, and old ranch roads;
• Proper development and functioning of the trail system to avoid sensitive areas and
maintain appropriate drainage patterns; and
• Proximity of potentially fire prone areas to urban areas.
The Update addresses these issues by calling for:
• Undertaking of various restoration or enhancement activities, especially along Froom
Creek and on old roadways;
• Continued development of a formal trail system for pedestrians and bicyclists;
• Placement of protective fencing at identified locations within the Reserve to protect
sensitive resources in those locations;
• Continuation of vegetation management activities at the wildland-urban interface,
especially the area between Prefumo Canyon Road and Froom Ranch Way;
• Development of interpretive and informational signage to assist visitors, and
• Rerouting or closure of unsafe or damaging trails.
General Plan Conformity
The City of San Luis Obispo's General Plan has several areas where use and management of
open space is addressed; The Conservation and Open Space Element (COSE) and 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 update 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 Update addresses this policy by addressing existing unauthorized trails, placing new trails in
places that avoid sensitive portions of the site, by closing or rerouting trails and old roadways
that are steep, dangerous, or are causing environmental damage, and by designating over 90% of
the site as "Habitat".
COSE Program 8.7.1 E.• 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 Update implements this program by calling for certain actions to stabilize the former jeep
road along Froom Creek, thus reducing its contribution to silt deposition into Froom Creek, to
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enhance the riparian habitat along lower Froom Creek, 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 Update 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 the Update, this policy is directly implemented.
Conservation Plan Preparation Process
The Update process began in January 2011 with a public workshop, attended by about ten
persons. Several concerns were raised and desires of citizens and interest groups were presented.
The most significant items were in regard to new trails, fire protection, and habitat conservation.
Following the workshop City staff investigated the natural and cultural resources within IHNR
and those findings set the framework in which appropriate recreational features such as trails
could take place. Upon completion of the Conservation Plan Update and Mitigated Negative
Declaration, the Plan was circulated to interested parties and to jurisdictional agencies at the
local, State, and Federal level.
Advisory Body and Staff Review, and Public Comment
Parks and Recreation Department staff assisted in the inventory of the site and actually took the
lead in development of the Update. Community Development staff reviewed the Conservation
Plan and Initial Study and recommended approval to the Planning Commission.
On June 22, 2011, the City Planning Commission reviewed the proposed Update and on July 6,
2011 the Parks and Recreation Commission reviewed it. Both bodies unanimously
recommended that the City Council adopt the Conservation Plan without modification.
As of July 7, 2011, only one public comment on the Update has been received. This was a letter
from District 5 at Cal Trans requesting that the City advise Cal Trans of new access points into
the Reserve as they are chosen, presumably so Cal Trans can consider potential traffic impacts of
such accesses. Staff are responding to this request positively, inviting Cal Trans comments on
the anticipated Mountainbrook Church access point.
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Conservation Plan Update for Irish Hills Natural Reserve Page 5
FISCAL IMPACT
The fiscal impact of Conservation Plan implementation is considered minor. New trail
construction is expected to be largely undertaken by volunteers, with the main out-of-pocket
expenses being for materials. The City Council has included $85,000 in the 2011-2013 budget
for funds for trail improvements and for some of the wildland urban interface brush clearing
costs. In addition, a fine of$22,000 for a spill some years ago at the Water Reclamation Facility
is expected to fund the next round of stabilization efforts along Froom Creek. This funding
comes through a program known as a Supplemental Environmental Program (SEP) wherein such
fines are permitted to be used locally for environmental enhancements to water quality by the
Regional Water Quality Control Board.
The level of Ranger Service patrol and maintenance will increase somewhat as a result of the
implementation of the Conservation Plan. Staff visitation already occurs on a daily basis, and
this level is expected to increase as emphasis on new trail construction and other activities
increases, especially at the Froom Ranch portion of IHNR. There will also be an increase in
visitation by Natural Resources staff, overseeing the implementation of many of the activities
identified in the update. However, such operational needs have been anticipated and can be
absorbed within existing operational budgets.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
The thrust of the Update is to protect existing resources at IHNR and to balance recreational use,
fire safety, and resource protection. The Initial Study identified three areas where potential
concerns exist: one is the potential for damage to species of concern (both plant and animal)
from new trail construction; second is the potential for erosion from new or existing trails; and
third is the potential for exposure (primarily by trail construction volunteers) to naturally
occurring asbestos (NOA), which is often found in varying amount in serpentine-derived soils.
These concerns are addressed by (1) ensuring that trail routes are surveyed at the proper time of
year to determine whether plant species of concern are present, and to ensure that animal species
are protected from inadvertent impacts by improper construction techniques or timing; (2) the
inclusion of commonly used "Best Management Practices" in the construction of trails and other
feature of the site, and (3) the use of dusk masks, soil wetting techniques where feasible, and
timing of trail construction to minimize or eliminate the potential for exposure to NOA.
With incorporation of these provisions, potential impacts are mitigated to less than significant
and issuance of a Mitigated Negative Declaration is appropriate.
ALTERNATIVE
The Council could reject the Update. 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
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clarify the plan or to accommodate concerns raised by citizens. Both Commissions supported the
recommended Plan as amended by unanimous vote.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Resolution to Adopt the Conservation Plan Update for IHNR
2. Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration
Council Reading File
The Irish Hills Natural Reserve Conservation Plan Update document is available in the Council
Reading file or can be accessed at htti)://www.slocity.orgLnaturalresources/online-documents.asi)
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ATTACHMENT 1
RESOLUTION NO. (2011 Series)
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO
ADOPTING THE CONSERVATION PLAN UPDATE
FOR IRISH HILLS 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 manages eleven open space areas totaling
approximately 3,000 acres, including the 1,090 acre Irish Hills Natural Reserve; and
WHEREAS,the Planning Commission, Parks and Recreation Commission, and the
general public have commented upon an Update to the existing Conservation Plan for Irish Hills
Natural Reserve as it has moved through a Council-directed approval process, and the Update has
considered those comments.
NOW,THEREFORE,BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of San Luis
Obispo as follows:
1. Environmental Review. The City Council hereby adopts the Mitigated Negative
Declaration for the Irish Hills Natural Reserve Conservation Plan Update, finding that it
adequately identifies all of the potential impacts of the project and that the following mitigation
measures and monitoring programs are reasonably necessary to reduce potentially-significant
impacts to less-than-significant levels:
a. Construction of new trails and realignment of existing trails shall utilize standard,
accepted Best Management Practices (BMPs) in order to minimize and contain potential losses
of soil to erosion and discharge into waterways.
• Monitoring Program: All trail construction shall take place under the direction of City
Natural Resources or Ranger Service staff, who will monitor compliance with this mitigation
requirement.
b. Site-specific and season-specific surveys shall determine the presence or absence of
southern steelhead, California red-legged frog, San Luis Obispo mariposa lily, or Chorro Creek
bog thistle on or near potential routes of trail realignments or new trail construction.
Modification such as rerouting, changing the time of construction, or other appropriate
mitigations shall be followed in the event of observations of the above species on or near such
alignments in order to avoid impacts. Protocols will be established for trail workers regarding
proper response in the event of discovery of such species during the course of construction
activities.
• Monitoring Program: Pre-construction surveys, and actual trail construction shall
take place under the direction of City Natural Resources or Ranger Service staff, who will
monitor compliance with this mitigation requirement.
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c. Trail workers shall be provided with dusk masks and, to the extent feasible, access to
water for dust control, in order to minimize potential exposure to naturally occurring asbestos
(NOA) in trail construction. Timing of construction activities in conjunction with timing for
avoidance of biological impacts will be coordinated in order to minimize construction during the
summer and fall as a dust reduction mitigation measure.
• Monitoring Program: Trail construction shall take place under the direction of City
Natural Resources or Ranger Service staff, who will monitor compliance with this mitigation
requirement.
2. Conservation Plan Update. The City Council adopts the Irish Hills Natural Reserve
Conservation Plan Update as City policy, based on the following findings:
a. The Update is consistent with General Plan goals and policies relating to the oversight
and management of City open space areas, specifically Conservation and Open Space Element
Policy 8.5.6 which calls for the development of conservation or master plans for open space
properties to protect and enhance them in a way that best benefits the community as a whole.
b. Implementation of the Update will provide proper protection and management of the
natural resources of the Reserve and will provide an appropriate level of public access, while
maintaining the great majority of the site in its natural condition.
c. The Mitigated Negative Declaration for the project adequately identifies all of the
potential impacts of the project and includes mitigation measures and monitoring programs
which are reasonably necessary to reduce potentially-significant impacts to less-than-significant
levels.
On motion of , seconded by , and on the following roll call vote:
AYES: Council Members
NOES: Council Members
ABSENT:
The foregoing resolution was adopted this 19th day of July, 2011.
Jan Howell Marx, Mayor
ATTEST: APPR D AS TO
1
Elaina Cano, City Clerk . Christine Dietrick, Cit ttorney
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ATTACHMENT 2
city of san lues oBispo
INITIAL STUDY
ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST FORM
For ER#47-11
1. Project Title:
Conservation Plan Update for the Irish Hills Natural Reserve
2. Lead Agency Name and Address:
City of San Luis Obispo,
990 Palm Street San Luis Obispo CA,93401
3. Contact Person and Phone Number:
Neil Havlik,Natural Resources Manager,City of San Luis Obispo
805 781-7211
4. Project Location:
Eastern Slopes of the Irish Hills range,between HWY 101 and Diablo Drive neighborhoods
(vicinity map attached).
5. Project Sponsor's Name and Address:
City of San Luis Obispo,
990 Palm Street
San Luis Obispo CA,93401
6. General Plan Designation:
Conservation/Open Space
7. Zoning:
C/OS-40
8. Description of the Project: (Describe the whole action involved, including but not limited to later
phases of the project, and any secondary, support, or off-site features necessary for its
implementation. Attach additional sheets if necessary.)
The project is an Update of the existing Conservation Plan for the Irish Hills Natural
Reserve (IIINR),originally completed in 2003. The purpose of the Update is is to integrate
an additional 380 acres of City-owned or controlled open space which was recently added
to IHNR into the Conservation Plan. The updated 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 recreation with the conservation of natural resources and protection of sensitive
species.
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ATTACHMENT 2
9. Surrounding Land Uses and Settings (Briefly describe the project's surroundings):
Private agricultural land uses to the south, west, and north, and urban (residential,
commercial and industrial (Construction yard) uses on the east.
10. Other public agencies whose approval is required (e.g.,permits, financing approval, or
participation agreement.):
None. Some permitting may be required for trail crossings of creeks or for restoration
activities anticipated on Froom Creek, at the specific locations of those anticipated
activities.
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.
--X-- Aesthetics Greenhouse Gas Emissions Population/Housing
Agriculture Resources Hazards&Hazardous Public.Services
Materials
X-- —X—
Air Quality Hydrology/Water Quality Recreation
_X_
Biological Resources Land Use/Planning Transportation/Traffic
Cultural Resources Mineral Resources Utilities/Service Systems
--X--
Geology/Soils Noise Mandatory Findings of
Significance
FISH AND GAME FEES
The Department of Fish and Game has reviewed the CEQA document and written no effect determination
request and has determined that the project will not have a potential effect on fish,wildlife,or habitat(see
attached determination).
The project has potential to impact fish and wildlife resources and shall be subject to the payment of Fish
—X-- 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.
CITY OF SAN LUIS Owspo 2 INITIAL STUDY ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST 2010
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ATTACHMENT 2
STATE CLEARINGHOUSE
This environmental document must be submitted to the State Clearinghouse for review by one or more
—X— 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)).
CITY OF SAN Luis OBISPO 3 INITIAL STUDY ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST 2010
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DETERMINATION JTo be completed by the Lead Agency):
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, by or 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 req uired.
June 10,2011
Signature ►'�?� Date
Dr.Neil Havlik,Natural Resources Manager
For:.John Mandeville,
Printed Name Community Development Director
CITY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO 4 INITIAL STUDY ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST 2010
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ATTACHMENT 2
EVALUATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS:
I. 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 parentheses following each question. 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.
3. Once the lead agency has determined that a particular physical impact may occur, then the checklist answers must
indicate whether the impact is potentially significant, less than significant with mitigation, or less than significant.
"Potentially Significant Impact' is appropriate if there is substantial evidence that an effect may be significant. If
there are one or more"Potentially Significant Impact"entries when the determination is made,an EIR is required.
4. "Negative Declaration: Less Than Significant With 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 19, "Earlier Analysis,"as described in(5)below,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)). 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 the 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 addressed site-specific conditions for the project.
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.
7. Supporting Information Sources: A source list should be attached,and other sources used or individuals contacted
should be cited in the discussion.
8. The explanation of each issue should identify:
a) the significance criteria or threshold,if any,used to evaluate each question;and
b) the mitigation measure identified,if any,to reduce the impact to less than significance
CITY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO 5 INITIAL STUDY ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST 2010
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ATTACHMENT 2
Issues,Discussion and Supporting Information Sources Sources Potentially Las Than Less Than No
Significant Significant Significant Impact
ER#47-11 Issues with Impact
Mitigation
Incorporated
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 thesitesite and its surroundings?
d) Create a new source of substantial fight or glare which would X--
adversely-affect-day r nighttime views in the area?
Evaluation
a). Proposed minor modifications to the existing trail system could potentially have a minor effect on views of the
area.
b) Proposed pruning of vegetation will have a minimal effect on selected trees and shrubs that may pose a threat to public
safety.
c) No actions shall be taken that will substantially degrade existing visual character of the site
d) No new light sources shall be created.
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
Statewide Importance 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 --X--
Williamson Act contract?
c) Involve other changes in the existing environment which,due to —X—
their location or nature,could result in conversion of Farmland
to non-a icultural use?
Conclusion
Proposed actions will have no effect on agricultural resources.
3. AIR QUALITY. Where available,the significance criteria established by the applicable air quality management
or air pollution control district may be relied upon to make the followin determinations.Would the roiect:
a) Conflict with or obstruct implementation of the applicable air qualityplan?plan?
b) Violate.any air quality standard or contribute substantially to an -X—
existing or projected air quality violation?
c) 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 quantitative
thresholds for ozone precursors)?
d) Expose.sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant —X—
concentrations?
e) Create objectionable odors affecting a substantial number of X--
people?
Conclusion
Proposed actions will have no effect on air quality.
CITY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO li INITIAL STUDY ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST 2010
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ATTACHMENT 2
Issues, Discussion and Supporting Information Sources Sources Potentially Less Than Less Than xo
Significant Significant Significant Impact
ER#47-11 Issues with Impact
Mitigation
Incorporated
4. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES. Would theproject:_
a) Have a substantial adverse effect,either directly or through __X__
habitat 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) 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,marsh,vernal pool,coastal,etc.)
through direct removal,filling,hydrological interruption,or
other means?
d) Interfere substantially with the movement of any native resident ormigratorymigratory fish or wildlife species or with established native
resident or migratory wildlife corridors,or impede the use of
native wildlife nursery sites?
e) Conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting —X
biological resources,such as a tree preservation policy or
ordinance?
f) Conflict with the provisions of an adopted habitat Conservation
Plan,Natural Natural Community Conservation Plan,or other approved
local,,regional,or state habitat conservation tan?
Evaluation
a) New trail construction could cause minor disturbance to local wildlife or rare plants and would result in the removal
of some vegetation. The threatened southern steelheadis known to occur in both Prefumo and Froom Creeks,and it
is possible that this species could be affected by activities near or in either of these waterways. The California red-
legged frog may also be present,although it has not been observed in past site searches. Finally,at least two species
ofrare plant—San Luis Obispo mariposa lily and Chorro Creek bog thistle—are known to occur in suitable habitat
within IHNR. Surveys will be undertaken during the blooming season of the species in question to ascertain their
specific occurrence in areas proposed for new trail construction. Likewise, permitting or other pre-construction
activity reviews will determine whether or not there would be any effect on aquatic species such as southern
steelhead or red-legged frogs. Trail workers will be trained in the recognition of red-legged frogs and protocols
established for dealing with observations of them within trail construction areas.The creation of new trails would be
partially offset by the closure, and restoration or stabilization of, existing trails and old roadways which are
currently causing significant ongoing resource damage. The result should be a net improvement of environmental
conditions within the Natural Reserve.
b) Detailed blooming-season surveys and other sensitive species surveys on proposed trail routes will be undertaken
prior to the onset of any new trail construction,.and mitigation strategies utilized to avoid or mitigate impacts.
These will include rerouting of trails,timing of construction(Prefumo Creek and Froom Creek are seasonal in their
lower reaches), and pre-construction and during construction surveys for potentially occurring species such as red-
legged frogs.
Conclusion
Proposed actions will have less than significant impact on biological resources with mitigation incorporated.
5.CULTURAL RESOURCES. Would theproject:
a) Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of'a --X
historic resource as defined in§15064.5.
b) Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of an __X__
archaeological resource pursuant to§15064.5)
S) Directly_or indirectly destroy a unique paleontologlcal_resource_ -X—
CITY OF SAN.LUIS OBISPO 7 INITIAL STUDY ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLLsT 2010
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ATTACHMENT 2
Issues, Discussion and Supporting Information Sources Sources Potentially Less Than Less Than No
Significant Significant Significant Impact
ER#47-11 Issues with Impact
Mitigation
Incorporated .
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 effect on cultural resources.
6. GEOLOGY AND SOILS. Would theproject:
a) Expose people or structures to potential substantial adverse - X—
effects,including the risk of loss,injury or death involving:
I. Rupture of a known earthquake fault,as delineated on the --X--
most recent Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Map
issued by the State Geologist for the area or based on other
substantial evidence of a known fault?Refer to Division of
Mines and Geology Special Publication 42:.
11. Strong seismic ground.shaking? —X--
111. Seismic-related ground failure,including liquefaction? --X—
IV. Landslides? —X—
b) Result in substantial soil erosion or the loss of topsoil? —X—
c) Be located on a geologic unit or soil that is unstable,or that —X—
would become unstable as a result of the project,and potentially
result in on or off site landslide,lateral spreading,subsidence,
liquefaction or collapse?
d) Be located on expansive soil,as defined in Table 1802.3.2 of —X--
the California Building Code(2007),creating substantial risks
to life or property?
e) Have soils incapable of adequately supporting the use of septic
tanks or or alternative waste water disposal systems where sewers
are not available for the disposal of wastewater?
Evaluation
d) Certain of the local soils have a high clay content and are expansive. Modifications to the trail system, and the
construction of new sections of trail could potentially result in erosion of topsoil. However, this will be avoided by the
incorporation of erosion control techniques into trail design. In addition, no structures are expected in the Reserve and
therefore none would be at risk from being located on expansive soils.
Conclusion
Proposed actions will have a less than significant effect on geology and soils with mitigation incorporated.
7. GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS. Would theproject:
a) Generate greenhouse gas emissions,either directly or
indirectly,
that
that may have a significant impact on the environment?
b) Conflict with an applicable plan, policy or regulation adopted --X--
for the purpose of reducing the emissions of greenhouse gases?
8. HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS. Would the pr Ject:
a) Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment
through the the routine transport,use,or disposal of hazardous
materials?
b) Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment throughreasonablyreasonably foreseeable upset and accident conditions
involving the release of hazardous materials into the
environment?
c) Emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous or acutely —X—
hazardous materials,substances,or waste within one-quarter__
CITY OF SAN LUIS Osispo s INnuL STUDY ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST 2010
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ATTACHMENT 2
Issues, Discussion and Supporting Information Sources Sources Potentially Less Than Less Than No
Significant Significant Significant Impact
ER#47-11 Issues with Impact
Mitigation
incorporated
mile of an existing or proposed school?
d) Be located on a site which is included on a list of hazardous _X_
materials sites compiled pursuant to Government Code Section
65962.5 and,as a result,would it create a significant hazard to
the public or the environment?
e) For a project located within an airport land use plan or,where
such a plan has not been adopted,within two miles of a public
airport or public use airport,would the project result in a safety
hazard for people residing or working in the project area?
f) For a project within the vicinity of a private airstrip,would the _X_
project result in a safety hazard for people residing or working
in the project area?
g) Impair implementation of or physically interfere with an __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 residences are intermixed
with wildlands?
a). Proposed trail construction will occur on serpentine soils and parent materials,which are assumed to have some level
of naturally occurring asbestos(NOA). Use of dust masks by trail volunteers, use of water to wet soils where feasible,and
revegetation of disturbed areas are expected to mitigate this potential hazard to a level of less than significant.. No other
proposed actions are expected to create.a situation which is a potential hazard to the local population or to the environment.
Conclusion.
Proposed actions will have less than.significant im act upon the environment with mitigation inco orated.
9. HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY. Would the ro'ect:
a) Violate any water qualitystandards or waste discharge -X—
requirements?
b) Substantially deplete groundwater supplies or interfere
substantially with with 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 or planned uses for which permits have been
granted)?
c) Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or X—
area, including through the alteration of the course of a stream
or river,in a manner which would result in substantial erosion
or siltation on or offsite?
d) Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or
area,including including through the alteration of the course of stream
or river,or substantially increase the rate oramount of surface
runoff in a manner which would result in,flooding on or off
site?
e) Create or contribute runoff water which would exceed the __X__
capacity of existing or planned storm water drainage systems or
provide substantial additional sources of polluted runoff.•
0 Otherwise substantially degrade water quality?
g) Place housing within a 1007year flood hazard area as mapped -X--
on a federal Flood Hazard Boundary or.Flood Insurance Rate
Map or other flood hazard delineation map? _____
CITY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO 9 INITIAL STUDY ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST 2010
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ATTACHMENT 2
Issues, Discussion and Supporting Information Sources Sources Potentially Less Than Less Than No
Significant Significant Significant Impact
ER#47-11 Issues with Impact
Mitigation
Incorporated
h Place within a 100- ear flood hazarstructures
y d area strucctt ures which
would impede impede or redirect flood flows?
i) Expose people or structures to significant risk of loss,injury or deathinvolvinginvolving flooding,including flooding as a result of the
failure of a levee or dam?
D Inundation by seiche,tsunami,.or mudflow?.- —X—
Conclusion
Proposed actions will have no adverse effect on hydrology or water quality.
10. LAND USE AND PLANNING. Would the rgiect:
a) Physically divide an established community? --X--
b) Conflict with any applicable land use plan,policy,or regulation --X—
of an agency with jurisdiction over the project (including, but
not limited to the general plan, specific plan, local coastal
program, or zoning ordinance) adopted .for the purpose of
avoiding or mitigating an environmental effect?
c) Conflict with any applicable habitat conservation plan or --X—
natural community conservationplan?
Conclusion
Proposed actions will have not conflict with any other land use. Ian,nor physically divide an existing community.
11. MINERAL RESOURCES. Would the prgieq:
a) Result in the loss of availability of a known mineral resource X--
that would be of value to the region and the residents of the
state?
b) Result in the loss of availability of a locally-important mineral X—
resource recovery site delineated on a local general plan,
Specificplan or,other land use plan?- _
Conclusion
Proposed actions will have no adverse effect the availability of mineral resources.
12.NOISE. Would the project result in: __
a) Exposure of persons to or generation of noise levels m excess of -X—
standards established in the local general plan or noise
ordinance,or applicable standards of other agencies?
b) Exposure of persons to or generation of excessive groundbome --X--
vibration or groundbome noise levels?
c) A substantial permanent increase in ambient.noise levels in the —X—
project vicinity above levels existing without the project?
d) A substantial temporary or periodic increase in ambient noise levelsinin the project vicinity above levels existing without the
project?
e) For a project located within an airport land use plan,or where --X--
such a plan has not been adopted,within two miles of a public
airport or public use airport,would the project expose people
residing or working in the project area to excessive noise
levels? --X--
f) For a project within the vicinity of a private airstrip,would the
project expose people residing or working in the project area to
excessive noise levels?
Conclusion
Proposed actions will have no effect on ambient noise levels.
13. POPULATION AND HOUSING. Would theproject:
_a) Induce substantial population growth to an area, either clirecqy,I —X—
CITY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO 10 INITIAL STUDY ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST 2010
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\� U
ATTACHMENT 2
Issues, Discussion and Supporting Information Sources Sources Potentially Less Than Less Than No
Significant Significant Significant Impact
ER#47-11 Issues with Impact
Mitigation
Incorporated
(for example, by proposing new homes and businesses) or
indirectly (for example, through extension of roads or other
infrastructure)?
b) Displace substantial numbers of existing housing, necessitating theconstructionconstruction of replacement housing elsewhere?c) DisplaceDisplace substantial numbers of people, necessitating the
construction of replacement housing elsewhere?
Conclusion
Proposed actions will have no population growth or housing.
14.PUBLIC SERVICES. Would the project result in substantial adverse physical impacts associated with the
provision of new or physically altered governmental 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) Other public facilities? __X__
Explanation
The proposed management plan may add some additional workload to the City's Ranger Service. However, most of the
activities proposed fall within the normal daily operations of the Ranger Service. Labor-intensive projects will be completed
by volunteers or external contractors.
Conclusion
Proposed actions will have no substantial adverse effect on public.services.
15.RECREATION.
a) Would the project increase the use of existing neighborhood or regionalparksparks or other recreational facilities such that
substantial physical deterioration of the facility would occur or
be accelerated?
b) Does the project include recreational facilities or require the —X--
construction or expansion of recreational facilities which might
have an adverse physical effect on the environment?
Evaluation
The proposed management plan is designed to accommodate passive recreational activities while avoiding detrimental
effects to the environment. No net expansion of recreational activities is proposed.
a). Proposed minor modifications to the existing trail system could potentially have a minor effect on the amount of use of
the area.
b) Proposed construction or realignment of existing and new trails may require the removal of some native brush and may
cause minor erosion.
Conclusion
Proposed actions will have a less than significant effect on the site as erosion control techniques will be incorporated in to
trail design and careful attention will be paid to ensure that no sensitive plant.species are disturbed.Proposed actions will not
increase recreational use of the site to levels that are detrimental to the physical environment.
16. TRANSPORTATION/TRAFFIC. Would theproject:
a) Conflict with an applicable plan,ordinance or policy __X_
establishing measures of effectiveness for the performance of
the circulation system,taking into account,all modes of
transportation including mass transit and non-motorized travel
__and relevant components of the circulation system,including___
✓� CITY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO INITIAL STUDY ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST 2010
B3-19
ATTACHMENT 2
Issues, Discussion and Supporting Information Sources Sources Potentially Less Than Less Than No
Significant Significant Significant Impact
ER#47-11 Issues with Impact
Mitigation
Incorporated
but not limited to intersections,streets,highways and freeways;
pedestrian and bicycle paths,and mass transit?
b) Conflict with an applicable congestion management program,
including,but but not limited to level of service standards and travel
demand measures,or other standards established by the county
congestion management agency for designated roads or
highways?
c) Result in a change in air traffic patterns,including either an
increase in in traffic levels ora change in location that results in
substantial safety risks?
d) Substantially increase hazards due to a design feature(e.g.,sharpcurvescurves or dangerous intersections)or incompatible uses
(e:g.farm equipment)?
e) Result in inadequate emergency access? --X—
f) Conflict with adopted policies,plans,or programs regarding --X—
public transit,bicycle,or pedestrian facilities,or otherwise
decrease the performance or safety of such facilities? .
Conclusion
Proposed actions will have no adverse effect on traffic or transportation.
17.UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS. Would the roject:
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—
or wastewater treatment facilities or expansion of existing
facilities,the construction of which could cause significant
environmental effects?
c) Require or result in the construction of new storm water --X--
drainage facilities or expansion of existing facilities,the
construction of which could cause:significant environmental
effects?
d) Have sufficient water supplies available to serve the project --X—
from existing entitlements and resources,or are new and
expanded entitlements needed?
e) 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 commitments?
f) Be served by a landfill with sufficient permitted capacity to --X—
accommodate the project's solid waste disposal needs?
g) Comply with federal,state,and local statutes and regulations --X—
related to solid waste?
Conclusion
Proposed actions will have no adverse effect on traffic or transportation.
18.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`ma'or. eriods of California history,or
CITY OF SAN Luis OBISPO 12 INITIAL STUDY ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST 2010
B3-20
0 ATTACHMENT 2
Issues, Discussion and Supporting Information Sources Sources Potentially Less Than Less Than No
Significant Significant Significant Impact
ER#47-11 Issues with Impact
Mitigation
Incorporated
prehistory?
b) Does the project have impacts that are individually limited,but X--
cumulatively 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 —X—
substantial adverse effects on human beings,either directly or
indirectly?
Vr CITY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO 13 INITIAL STUDY ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST 2010
B3-21
ATTACHMENT 2
19.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 followin .items:
a Earlier analysis used. Identify earlier analyses and state where they are.available for review. _
"Conservation Plan for the Irish Hills Natural Reserve"and Initial Study,approved in April 2003 by the City Council of the
City of San Luis Obispo,is available at the Administration Department,C ity of San Luis Obispo,San Luis Obispo,CA.
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 b mitigation measures based.on the earlier analysis.,
Effects anticipated in 2003 included the potential for minor increases in erosion potential, and the possibility of impacting
southern steelhead, red-legged frog, San Luis Obispo mariposa lily, and Chorro Creek bog thistle populations. Mitigation
proexams were put into place to address the possibilities.
c) Mitigation measures. For effects that are "Less than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated,"describe the mitigation
measures which were incorporated or refined from the earlier document and the extent to which they address site-
.specific conditions of the project..
Mitigation measures incorporated included use of standard Best Management Practices to minimize and contain disturbed
soil in trail construction,pre-construction surveys for the.named species of concern,and general avoidance of areas of
such species,especially springs and waterways.
20. SOURCE REFERENCES.
1. Conservation Plan for the Irish Hills Natural Reserve City of San Luis Obispo,2003
2.
3.
4.
5.
Attachments:
REQUIRED MITIGATION AND MONITORING PROGRAMS
1. Mitigation: Trail construction crews shall utilize standard,accented Best Management.Practices
(BMPs) in undertaking realignment of existing trails and construction of new trails in order to minimize
and contain potential losses of soil to erosion and discharge into waterways.
Monitoring Program: Trail construction shall be undertaken under the direction of City Natural
Resources and/or Ranger Service staff, who shall monitor compliance with this mitigation.
2. Mitigation: Site-specific and season-specific surveys shall determine the presence or absence of
southern steelhead, California red-legged frog, San Luis Obispo Mariposa lily,or Chorro Creek bog
thistle on or near potential routes of trail realignments or new route construction. Modifications to
construction such as rerouting_chanzing of time of construction, or other appropriate mitigations shall
be followed in the event of observations of the above species on or near such alignments in order to
avoid impacts. Protocols will be established for trail workers.regarding proper response in the event of
discovery of such species during the course of construction activities.
B3-22
ATTACHMENT 2
Issues, Discussion and Supporting Information Sources Sources Potentially Less Than Less Than No
Significant .Significant Significant Impact
ER#47-11 Issues with Impact
Mitigation
incorporated
• Monitoring Program: Pre-construction surveys, and actual trail construction shall be undertaken under
the direction of City Natural Resources and/or Ranger Service staff, who shall monitor compliance with
this mitigation.
3. Mitigation: Trail workers shall be provided with dust masks and,to the extent feasible, access to
water for dust control, in order to minimize potential exposure to naturally occurring asbestos(NOA) in
trail construction. Timing of constructionactivitiesin coniunction with timing for avoidance of
biological mitigations will be coordinated in order to minimize construction during the summer and fall
as a dust reduction mitigation measure.
• Monitoring Program: Trail construction shall be undertaken under the direction of City Natural
Resources and/or Ranger Service staff,who shall monitor compliance with this mitigation.
�r CITY OF SAN LUIS OsisPo 5 INRIAL STUDY ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST 2010
B3-23
l
C
City of San Luis Obispo
Natural Resources Program.
I
/ / o
Ivis His Natural Ke5erve
..��a nse rva ion P an Udate
6 - 2011
Natural'Resources Protection Program
C,ItN/ of City of San Luis Obispo
.\Il LUIS OBISPO 990 Palm Street
S
�' San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
City of San Luis Obispo
Natural Resources Protection Program
www.slocity.org/naturalresources
Irish Hills Natural Reserve
Conservation Plan
® raft 2011 Update
Neil Havlik, Ph.D.
Natural Resources Manager
Freddy Otte
City Biologist
Bijan Riley
Park Ranger/Masters Candidate
City and Regional Planning
June 2011 Draft Update
t IItt' p IN
iintenance of existing high quality
CCY1 E I ha bitat withi n I H N R;
OPEN > Protection of sensitive resources and
The Irish Hills Natural Reserve (IHNR) habitats;and
i is a 1110-acre area in the City of San
Luis Obispo,west of Los Osos Valley > Proper development and functioning
Road. of trail systems.
• It consists of serpentine hill lands The 2003 Conservation Plan has begun
dominated by chaparral, oak wood- to achieve these goals by:
Land,and grassland.Two perennial
streams, Prefumo Creek and Froom > Completion of King Trail and Mariposa
Creek,cross portions of the Reserve. Trail loops,serving access point;
The site is known for its views,its > Closure and revegetation of a portion
The relatively pristine landscape,and of Froom Creek Jeep Road;
trail system,which is a holdover from
Conservation past mineral exploration. > Closure and revegetation of several
sections of trail with excessive erosion
Plan protects The property was acquired by the problems;
P City of San Luis Obispo in several in-
dividual stages between 1998-2011. > Continued fire management pro-
existing grams,involving management of fuel
Important Natural Features loading,especially at the urban/wild-
resources at land interface; and
IHNR contains a number of sensitive
Irish Hills or otherwise important natural and > Installation of an interpretive and
historical features,including: informational kiosk at the Madonna
Natural trailhead.
>Threatened Steelhead trout in the
Reserve two streams; The Updated Conservation Plan will
continue to achieve these goals by call-
> Endangered plant species(Chorro ing for:
and balances Creek bog thistle);
> Completion of trail linkages to estab-
recreational > Several rare plant and animal spe- lish several new loop systems;
cies;
use, > Complete decommissioning and
> Chaparral,oak woodland,and revegetation of the Froom Creek jeep
fire safety, grassland on serpentine soils; road and several other roads and trails;
and resource > 4 former mine sites; and > Continued development of interpre-
tive and informational trailhead signage
> Large tracts of intact, high quality to assist visitors; and
protection. wildlife habitat.
> A continued fire management pro-
Goals and concerns associated with gram,involving management of fuel
IHNR include: loading, at the urban/wildland inter-
face and possible use of prescribed
Issues and concerns related to IHNR burning in certain locations.
were generated through feedback
from community workshops. The Conservation Plan's primary aim
is to protect the existing resources at
> Erosion problems associated with IHNR and to balance recreational use,
the Froom Creek jeep road; fire safety, and resource protection.The
plan is considered not to have a signifi-
UNHIIVIIIHN PITH iuR iRi > Need for fire and fuel load manage- cant effect upon the environment.
IIISH EM NIiHIII IMM ment at the wildland/urban inter-
mi � face;
1abIC 01' C00Ce0�S
APPENDIX].........................................34
EXECUTIVESUMMARY..................................2 APPENDIX2........................................36
I.INTRODUCTION........................................A APPENDIX3........................................40
2.INVENTORY..............................................6
2.1.SOILS......................................6
23.HABITAT"TYPES.........................8
Serpentine Chaparral and L J J I Ir I G J
Black Sage/Coyote Brush
Scrub Habitat...................8 FIGURE I-Regional Setting of the
Coast Live Oak Irish Hills Natural Reserve..... ..05
Woodland Habitat............8
FIGURE 2-IHNR'I'opography............. ....07
Grassland Habitat.............8
FIGURE 3-IHNR Physical Features..........09
Riparian Habitat...............8
FIGURE 4-IHNR Soil'I'ypes....................11
Aquatic Habitat................10
2.4.WILDLIFE................................10 FIGURE S-IHNR Habitats......................13
Birds...............................12 FIGURE 6-IHNR Sensitive Species...........17
Mammals........................12 FIGURE 7-IHNR Land Use
Reptiles...........................12 Designations.........................21
Amphibians.....................12 FIGURER-IHNR Wildfire
Fish................................14 Preparedness Plan..................27
Invertebrates...................14
Species of Special Concern...14
2.1.BU1LT'FEATra'URES ..14 lilt O[ 1a b I e I-
NewTralls........................16
Unpaved Roads.................16 'FABLE 1-List of Bird Species
Paved Roads.....................16 Identified within
Electrical UtilityTowers.....16
the IHNR...............................15
Access Points....................18 'FABLE 2-List of Mammal Species
Power Driven Identified within
Mobility Devices................18
the IHNR...............................15
25.CULTURAL RESOURCES................18
2.6.ARCHEOLOGICAL RESOURCES........18
2.7.LEGALAGREEMENT5....................19
3.GOALS&RECOMMENDATIONS......................22
4.CONSERVATION PLAN.................................22
4.1 SYSTEM MAP.............................22
4.2 NEEDS ANALYSIS.........................23
43 WILDFIRE PREPAREDNESS PLAN...30
4.4 IMPLEMENTATION......................31
5.FISCAL SFA'IT:MENT'....................................31
REFERENCES...............................................31
UNION PIRN Ho 1H,
IRIRR RIAS NRRUH MMI
mi 3
1. in
dKIM
imsisgenerallygood, andthey
support populations of threatened
southern steelhead trout and other
This Conservation Plan Update lays native fishes.
out the general practices and poli-
cies for the continued preservation The Irish Hills area was identified as a
of natural resources in the Irish Hills significant natural resource in a study
.r Natural Reserve. carried out by the Nature Conservancy
of California (Nature Conservancy of
The protection of natural resources, California 2001), and the area has also
development of a green belt, and recently been recognized by both the
provision of passive recreation op- State Coastal Conservancy and the
portunities are all stated goals of Wildlife Conservation Board as an area
the open space element of the City of interest.The Irish Hills support a
'6 of San Luis Obispo general plan.The rich and diverse wildlife population
conservation of land as open space and the entire range,including that
f' " is a desirable and effective means of portion under city ownership,is excel-
-. ,..
7lent habitat. Over two hundredspecies
y: .•�,,�, � meeting these goals. Planners and of- p
ficials for the City of San Luis Obispo of birds have been identified in the
4 have envisioned the creation of an area and many amphibians, reptile and
open space greenbelt around the City mammal species occur there as well.
and have actively pursued this objec- Deer are commonly seen and local
tive.The creation of the Irish Hills residents occasionally report mountain
Natural Reserve(IHNR)is the result lion sightings.
of efforts to conserve five contiguous
The parcels of land in the eastern section IHNR is one of several areas of ser-
of the Irish Hills to the west of the pentine-derived soils in the San Luis
Irish Hills
City of San Luis Obispo (Fig. 1). Obispo region.Those soils have un-
support a rich usual chemical characteristics to which
The City-owned Irish Hills Natural only a few species of plants have been
and diverse Reserve (IHNR)encompasses 1110 able to adapt.As a result,the serpen-
wildli a acres of land consisting of grasslands, tine areas support a vegetative com-
f oak woodland,and chaparral, on gen- munity quite different from the sur-
population erally steep terrain ranging from 140 rounding non-serpentine sites.These
feet to just under 1,160 feet at the areas are also usually free of weed
highest point(Fig. 2).The substrate is species. Because of the relative scarci-
mostly derived from heavily serpen- ty of serpentine habitats, many of the
tinized parent materials,which have plants found there are considered rare
given rise to a thin serpentine soil or threatened.
supporting a unique vegetation com-
plex of serpentine adapted grassland, The earliest record of historical use
woodland and chaparral.The area is of the Irish Hills dates back to chro-
CUHSffl MIN YIflN ioR iHi drained by two small coastal streams, mite deposit mining activities in the
MH NIffl HIM HIR both tributaries of San Luis Obispo late 1800's and early 1900's(Smith
mi 4 Creek.The water quality in these &Griggs, 1944). Several abandoned
F armed by Tenera Consulting,and
an archeological studies performed by
Gibson's Archeological Consulting, and
Heritage Discovaries, Inc.
9
--- — - — a 2.1. SOILS
o. There are a variety of soil types within
IHNR, providing a variety of habitat op-
portunities (Fig 3.)
• • • o Survey maps(U.S. Soil Conservation
Service, 1984))indicate that more than
75%of the area within IHNR consists
of Obispo-Rock outcrop complex soils
(Fig.4),derived from serpentine par-
ent materials. Other soil types listed
open-faced mine sites and prospects within IHNR include Los Osos-Diablo
exist within the Irish Hills Natural complex 15 to 30% slopes; Lodo clay
Reserve (coordinates: 35015'18"/ loam, 30 to 50%slopes; Gaviota sandy
120042'45"). In more recent years, loam, 50 to 75%slopes; Salinas silty
the primary use patterns have in- clay loam, 0 to 2% slopes; Lodo- Rock
volved recreational activities for outcrop complex, 30 to 75%slopes;
City residents and visitors to the and Diablo and Cibo clays, 30 to 50%
area.An extensive trail network has slopes.These soils are present in rela-
been established consisting of nar- tively small areas (<50 acres) on the
row trails(commonly referred to as lower slopes along the northeastern
'single-track') linking dirt roads and boundary of IHNR.They are composed
a 1.2 mile section of sealed asphalt. of material weathered from sandstone,
The primary recreational activities shale, red rock, mudstone,and sedi-
currently occurring within IHNR are mentary rocks.Soil depths range from
hiking, mountain biking, and limited shallow to very deep and most are de-
equestrian use. scribed as well drained (see Appendix
uppt r 1 for a full description of soil types).
• I�Y U��OI Within IHNR area there is an abun-
dance of Serpentine soil.The term
IHNR contains a variety of soil types Serpentine refers to a group of miner-
providing habitat for over four hun als that make up serpentinite rock.
dred and fifty species of plants and Serpentinite is a type of ultramafic
animals.An inventory of these re- rock consisting predominantly of
sources has been compiled through magnesium silicate and iron oxide
a variety of means including infor- minerals. Most ultramific rocks,includ-
UNSIPUNN PION In 1E mation from The Soil Conservation
NIH flM NIINIII M1111ing Serpentinite,contain naturally
?w 6 Service's 1984,a biological survey occurring asbestos (NOA) particles.
FIS P_arOc 1
�vv sffe ) PaTk�
Lake -�
Cause
I
f l
1 f
® IHNR BOUNDARY o 0.7 Miles
>
f FIGURE 2.
CI HY1111H MIN i�l iui
T®PO(GRAPHV OF THE VISI IVIS III1HII IMPI
' URIsm HILLS NATURAL RESERVE ml 1
� ,particles are a known human , dentine soils along hillsides and
health risk.Asbestos has been clas- swales that face north/northeast. Oak
sifted as a carcinogen by state and woodland habitat vegetates the slopes
federal agencies and if encountered around riparian areas and upwards to
proper measures should be taken. If grasslands or scrub/chaparral habi-
trail work is performed in areas with tats. Generally,a mixed coast live oak/
serpentine soils, protective measures toyon community vegetates the drier
should be taken. upper slopes and a coast live oak/Cali-
fornia bay Laurel community is present
2.2. HABITAT TYPES on lower slopes adjacent to and within
Both vegetative and aquatic habitats the riparian corridor.
Prefumo exist within IHNR(Fig.4).
Canyon Road Grassland Habitat
Serpentine Chaparral, Black Sage,
and Madonna and Coyote Brush Scrub Habitat This habitat type is present in patches
Road will be and discontinuous bands in the north-
Serpentine chaparral covers 832 eastern and north-central regions of
designated acres of IHNR, making it the pre- IHNR,and occupies a combined area of
dominant natural community by area. approximately 74 acres.Areas identi-
as official Black sage/coyote brush scrub covers fied as grassland habitat consist of a
gateways an additional 22 acres. Leather oak variable mixture of native and non-
is endemic to serpentine soils and is native grass species. Generally,grass-
to the found extensively throughout IHNR in lands on the lower slopes are domi-
scrub and chaparral habitats. nated by annual grasses; however, in
Irish Hills serpentine areas native bunch grasses
Natural A number of seep areas are present are much more prevalent.
in chaparral and scrub habitats.Wa-
Reserve. ter from these seeps descend hun- Riparian Habitat
dreds of feet in some areas through
watercourses carved into underlying Riparian habitat exists as a narrowband
serpentine rock.These seep areas of vegetation lining the stream banks
constituted an important water of Prefumo Creek, Froom Creek and the
source for birds, mammals, reptiles unnamed tributary of Prefumo Creek
and amphibians,and habitat for the that flows past Sterling Drive.This
endangered Chorro Creek bog thistle. riparian habitat occupies a total area of
approximately 30 acres within IHNR.
Coast Live Oak Woodland Habitat
The main stem of Prefumo Creek is
Oak woodlands cover approximately a relatively low gradient stream seg-
166 acres of IHNR.As with scrub ment with a diverse riparian canopy
and chaparral habitats,the species of mature coast live oak,willow,and
composition, density, and height of sycamore.The understory consists of
the coast live oak community varies toyon, blue elderberry, blackberry,
CUNflffl HI
PIIU [ iai considerably.The live oak woodland poison oak,coyote brush and monkey
IIISN HIIIS HIIUIUI IISfHYf Y• P Y Y
PRG[ 8 habitat is primarily found on non- flower. Several introduced species are
• v
�
4Y f
.•-� J t ��' !� I CSM
t
/ 0
J
0 0.6 Miles
0
EHNR R BouNDARY 0 CVB®
0 CONCEPCION 0 L®5 0505
0 a.®®® 0 GAVD®TA
0 DIABLO 0 ROCKOUTCROP
FIGURE 3.
W � COHSEflV9i1011 PPflll r: i:.i
S®UL TYPES UIQ 7H E MM NIlPS HIM BI [M
WSH HELLS MATURAL R[ESSEfRV E PPGf 9
a: , resent, including: blue gum, rk .-Is of Froom Creek in IHNR is pe-
Monterey cypress,date palm,fennel, rennial.The water quality in all three
French broom and chicory. creeks appears to be good,with water
temperatures in the range of 16.7 to
The unnamed tributary to Prefumo 17.8°C recorded on midsummer after-
Creek has a higher gradient than the noons.
main stem,with a riparian corridor
dominated in the lower reaches by The bed of all three creeks consists
California bay laurel, coast live oak of combinations of small boulders,
and toyon. Understory vegetation in cobble and sand. Overall,the aquatic
the shade of these mature trees is systems represent excellent wildlife
sparse but includes poison oak,wood habitat,and threatened steelhead
ferns and California blackberry. trout have been observed in both
Froom and Prefumo creeks.
Oak The reach of Froom Creek located
within IHNR has a low gradient and In addition,a number of seasonal
woodlands supports mature coast live oaks,Cali- seeps exist on the site,which are
cover about fornia bay laurel,and an occasional considered sensitive aquatic habitats
young sycamore. Understory vegeta- (Dugan, 2002).These seep areas are
140 acres tion is dominated by willows (includ- associated with stands of the endan-
ing the serpentine endemic Coulter gered Chorro Creek bog thistle and
of the Irish willow), poison oak,grasses and a are habitat for large populations of
Hills Natural variety of herbaceous species. unidentified amphibian larva (Clarke,
2002; pers obs).
Reserve. Aquatic Habitat
2.3. WILDLIFE
The major aquatic habitats repre-
sented on the site include 1 mile of IHNR is host to over four hundred and
Prefumo Creek and 0.5 miles of an fifty species of plants and animals (Fig.
unnamed tributary, both of which are s).
seasonal, having sections that are dry
I
uring the summer months.The 1.8 Focused wildlife surveys within IHNR
HUMID NN IIIA iIII
IIM IlM Hlfflll UP[
ml I
,�; � i _ a� v � ..,
..�•.
c-i �,
+�+�. ..\Jj \�.1" r'� rV' 111������'yyypl•.i,��ih'i aY ��.�/ Q P`��t11 vkl �y�'`�_.r
Yn� � 'L�{ l��R .� /� K 1�\�\ 111 CV
� 'h../moi Y,yG��'" bJ :�/� fr,�•, c ..�oSc�w4y".�{�
_ �... f� l
`{ -..i.� `-�1 . ..�h fi.�`t �T�l.'�r �,. fr.a�h'y� �� 11 i�'r�`T�^.C �all
\�\�" .. \...` �._,;�,., Vli ti.:�ilC'"•x ' ��,y��'��-s ?!tits �.,�•. �_7'¢I�i'I4
.. .
� `..;
_� ���
1_I. ,; .i, � is t
;-
.. ���
r- ! ��. �.:�-..
.:`� _ ��\ is -...\ /Y •�'' q�
i �•• .5�1
i 1 .
® � � �
_ 1
� � ' ' ' ' ' _
� • • 1 1
I i I I i
� ' ,.
i �; �, �,
Overall, v+ 'conducted during June,July and 6..Js
August 2002 by Tenera Environmen-
the aquatic tat.The primary objective of these A wide variety of birds have been
systems in surveys was to determine if listed or observed during surveys of IHNR.
special status species occurred on Seventy-four bird species are listed as
the IHNR the property. Each of the major habi- potentially occurring on, or directly ad-
tat types within IHNR was canvassed jacent to, IHNR(Appendix 3). Forty-two
represent thoroughly on foot during both day species of birds have been positively
excellent and nighttime surveys. Wildlife spe- identified within the boundary of IHNR
cies were identified through direct by City appointed biologists (Table 1).
wildlife observation,calls, or signs such as
habitat, and tracks,scat pellets, nests or dens. Mammals
Sampling was also conducted from
endangered various vantage points within each of Twenty-six mammal species are iden-
the major habitat types by stationary tified as potentially occurring on,or
steelhead observers. Points were sampled in directly adjacent to, IHNR(Appendix
trout have the morning and/or evening dur- 3). Fourteen of these species have
ing daylight hours for a duration of been positively identified as occurring
been observed between 15 to 30 minutes. within the boundaries of IHNR by City
in both Froom appointed biologists(Table 2). Most
Riparian areas were surveyed us- of the mammals observe were found
and Prefumo ing generally accepted methods in the riparian and scrub/ chaparral
for stream surveys.The banks and habitats.
creeks. surface of each stream were scanned
with binoculars as surveyors moved Reptiles
slowly upstream.
Seventeen reptile species have been
Small mammal trapping was con- listed as potentially occurring on or
ducted in one grassland,two oak directly adjacent to IHNR (Appendix
woodlands,one riparian, and three 3). Seven of these species have been
chaparral habitat areas.A total of ten identified as occurring within the
Tomahawk live traps or Havahart live boundary of IHNR,including:west-
traps were placed at various points ern pond turtle (Clemmys marmo-
within the sampling area. rata);western rattlesnake(Crotalus
viridis); ringneck snake (Diadophis
Four hundred and fifty-nine species punctataus); Southern alligator lizard
of plants and animals have been (Elgaria mulitcarinatus); common king
identified as potentially occurring snake(Lampropeltis getulus);gopher
on or directly adjacent to IHNR.Two snake(Pituophis melanoleucus);and
hundred and sixty two species have the western fence lizard (Sceleoporus
been positively identified as occur- occidentalis).
ring within the boundary of IHNR
MMMIN ZEIN iofl isi (Appendix 3).
IBISN BINS NIAIII RESERVE
PEI[ 1�
O
�LLWIM.��] , � ��,..-..-.��fl �7 ( .r'� J7 ~ � � C-.Gi tQ �VG� •1 .. T
�'�,�`e.:^ ern^ ��� x• c�\ M.� � s. .: �-
1� r
/ J v y l I � o�•�
�[. � ice.✓
77
ol
�S ♦ L
o� .J w ` n
' 1, '
�_. _ � ✓ yrs., �. '.�- ,o -
0 0.6 Miles
/
4
P
FIGURE S.
�pp COIISfOVEilUll PlBll r.: ISI
S ENSMVE SPECEES W57HIN THE IME 111M N lffl[ BISEBVI
MSH HPLLS NAWRAL RESERVE P9tl 11
There are Q .hibians b_.,ndaries of IHNR (Fig. 6).These in-
clude:Chorro Creek bog thistle (Cirsi-
262 species Six species of amphibians have been um fontinale var. obispoense); Brewer
ofplants and identified as potentially occurring on spineflower(Chorizanthe breweri);
or directly adjacent to IHNR(Appen- San Luis mariposa lily(Calochortus
animals that dix 3). However,only the Pacific tree obispoensis); Club-footed mariposa
have been
frog(Hyla regilla) has actually been lily(Calochortus clavatus var. clava-
observed within the boundaries of tus); Leopard lily(Lilium pardalinum
identified IHNR. var. pardalinum);western pond turtle
(Clemmys marmorata); and steelhead
within the Fish trout(Onchorhyncus mykiss irideus).
boundary
Threatened steelhead trout(Oncho- 2.4. BUILT FEATURES
of the rhynchus mykiss),and speckled dace
(Rhinichthys osculus) have both been There have been a number of man-
Irish Hills observed in the sections of Froom made changes to the face of IHNR over
Natural and Prefumo creeks that run through that past century.
IHNR.
Reserve. Physical changes to the landscape
Invertebrates resulting from past human activities
within IHNR include:an established
No surveys have been performed trail and dirt road system;installation
which focus specifically on the inver- of high-tension power lines and as-
tebrate fauna of IHNR, consequently sociated towers across the property;
current estimates are severely lack- - �_ ,, -•,
ing. However,four notable inverte-
brate species have been identified
as occurring in the Reserve, includ-
ing:tarantula spider(Aphonopelma
spp); Monarch butterfly (Dananus „ t
plexippus);tarantula wasp (Hemi- - ,
pepsis spp); and Callippee fritillary .
butterfly(Speyeria callippe).A non-
endangered subspecies of the Morro _a
shoulderband snail(Helminthoglypta
walkeriana morroensis) has been and several abandoned open faced
found within IHNR and in several chromite mines dating from the early
other areas around the city. 1900's. No other major development
sites exist within IHNR.
Species of Special Concern
Trails
Seven species of special concern (as
CINSEIVIIIIN PIIN 11 A, identified by the City or other state IHNR has an established network of
MM flM NIIIIII IMM and federal agencies) have been walking and hiking trails extending for
mi ]4 identified as occurring within the 8.5 miles,with 3.5 miles of proposed
Table 1. List of BIRD Species Identified Within the IHNR
ScrENmc NAME COMMON NAME SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME
Aphelocoma califomica Western scrub jay Hirundo pynfionta Cliff swallow
Aquila chrysaetos Golden eagle Junco hyemalis Dark-eyed junco
Bubo virginianus Great homed owl Melospiza lincolnii Lincoln's sparrow
Buteo lineatus Red-shouldered hawk Mimus polyglottis Northern mockingbird
Buteo jamaicensis Red-tailed hawk Parus inornatus Plain titmouse
Callipepla californica California quail Parus rufescens Chestnut-backed chickadee
Calypte anna Anna's hummingbird Passerculus sandwichensis Savanna sparrow
Carduelis psaltria Lesser goldfinch Picoides nuttallii Nuttall's woodpecker
Carduelis tristis American goldfinch Picoides pubescens Downey woodpecker
Carpodacus mexicanus House finch Pipilo crissalis California towhee
Cathartes aura Turkey vulture Pipilo erythrophthalmus Spotted towhee
Catherpes mexicanus Canyon wren Polioptila caerulea Blue-gray gnatcatcher
Ceryle alcyon Belted kingfisher Psaltriparus minimus Bushtit
Contopus sordidulus Western wood-pewee Regulus calendula Ruby-crowned kinglet
Corvus brachyrhynchos American crow Sayornis nigricans Black phoebe
Cyanocitto stelleri Steller's jay Selasphorus sasin Allen's hummingbird
Elanus leucurus White-tailed kite Thryomanes bewickii Bewick's wren
Empidonax difficilis Pacific-slope flycatcher Toxostoma redivivum California thrasher
Euphagus cyanocephalus Brewer's blackbird Tyto alba Common bam-owl
Falco sparvenus American kestrel Vireo huttoni Hutton's vireo
Geococcyx californianus Greater roadrunner Zenaida macroura I Mourning dove
Table 2. List of MAMMAL Species Identified Within the IHNR
ScmNmc NnME COMMON_ NAME SctENTmc NAME COMM7NAmE 7Canis latrans Coyote Mephitis mephitis Striped
Didelphis virginiana Virginia opossum Neotoma fuscipes Dusky-footed woodrat
Peromyscus boylei Brush mouse Odocodeus herionus Mule deer
Peromyscus californicus California mouse Spermophilus beecheyi California ground squirrel
Peromyscus maniculatus Deer mouse Sylvilagus bachmani Brush rabbit
Procyon lotor Raccoon Thomomys bottae Botta's pocket gopher
Lynx rufus Bobcat Urocyon cinereoargenteus Gray fox
UNHPINN PION AH IHI
IIISN HIIIS HIM MIM
PILI �S
The t, to be constructed in the future L..I)aved Roads
(Fig.6).Trails range from single-track,
San Luis less than 1 ft. in width,to trails up to There are 0.6 miles of unpaved roads
mariposa lily 4 ft.wide. Historically,the main uses within the conservation area with one
of the trail network have been for additional mile of unpaved road,that
(Calochortus hiking, mountain biking,and limited has recently been decommissioned
equestrian activities and they will and reduced down to single-track trail
obispoensis) continue to remain as such. within IHNR.These roads were origi-
is one of eight natty established primarily as a means
Several potential changes to exist- of moving cattle and farm equipment
species of ing trails include a realignment of through the area (Fig. 6).Today many
special concern Portions of trail where grades are of these roads are in a state of disre-
excessive and improvements can be pair,with some sections inaccessible
within the made without undue environmental to vehicular traffic. Portions of roads
damage. Candidate trails for these that have been cut into steep hillsides
boundaries improvements include Poppy Trail, have become major sources of soil ero-
of Irish Hills Mine Trail,Sterling Trait, and Ocean sion,causing sediment loading into the
View Trail.Any trails with a grade in creek system. Due to the environmen-
Natural excess of 12%-15%will be a candi- tat impacts on the Froom Creek sys-
date for realignment if possible to do tem, some road segments have been
Reserve. without undue environmental dam- decommissioned and converted to
age i.e.without the need for bridges, single-track trails in order to prevent
heavy grading, shoring and passage further erosion and sedimentation to
through wetlands or endangered the creek system.
plant communities.
Paved Roads
New Trails
A single paved road exists on IHNR.
Potential for the in- The road extends from a gated access
corporation of several point at the end of Sterling Drive up
new trails within IHNR the hillside to an abandoned develop-
include a "short cut" ment site just below the abandoned
V, connector from Froom chromite mine (Fig. 6).The road is 1.2
Creek to upper por- miles in length,sealed,approximately
tions of the proposed 10 ft wide,and generally in good re-
ti Froom property trails, pair. However,one steep stretch of ap-
'' _ Ocean View Trail from proximately 650 ft remains unpaved.
the lower gate to the The upper portion of the paved road is
road,a connector from being encroached upon by chaparral
Tower Trail to Froom and will need regular brushing in order
Creek,a loop trail at Froom Mine, to maintain vehicular access.
and a connector from Froom Mine
CIHSEBYfliIIN MN ioR iNi to Froom Creek via Old Prospectors
IIISI IIEIS HIM E BfHU Road and the continued exploration
PBI[ H of other possible trail extensions.
C C
U
69
49,
Y
� o -
a
A
0 0.6 Miles
MR B®URIDARV � AcCESS POINTS
CREEKS AND SEEPS MINES r
TRAILS ® POWER LINE TOWERS
UNPAVED ROADS v�
PAVED ROADS (�
PROPOSED TRAILS
_�
J
RGURE 6.
MIMMID Nil 1 iii
PHYSOCAL FEA7URIES 11H EM HIM IMP[
WSH GILLS NATURAL RESERVE ml 11
t trical Utility Towers 1.�.,n written request to the Parks and
Recreation Department dependent
OPEN Eight(8) PG&E electrical utility tow- upon and subject to approval by the
ers span the site and support high- Parks and Recreation Director.
tension electrical cables(Fig. 6).
Easements exist which allow PG&E to 2.5. CULTURAL RESOURCES
access the towers and cables to per-
form maintenance, repair work, and Chromite mining has left a number
management of vegetation below the of abandoned mine sites within IHNR
`- cables. (Fig. 6).The four mine sites within
IHNR are a remnant of the early 1900's
The Access Points when chromite (Cr203)was mined
Irish Hills extensively in the area. Up to 1944
IHNR currently has access at two the total production of chromite ore
Natural points from public streets. Primary and concentrates in San Luis Obispo
access is located at the terminus of County was greater than that from any
Reserve Madonna Road and secondary access other county in California (Smith and
should be is located on Prefumo Canyon Road, Griggs, 1944).The open-face mine
off of Los Osos Valley Road. Where site covers approximately 3 acres of
expanded necessary, parking facilities will be steeply graded hillside. Several pros-
when upgraded in these areas and informa- pects associated with the mines have
tional signage installed. New access been reported within IHNR.A recent
possible, points to IHNR will be updated as Study(Stantec 2009), searched for
they become available. evidence of elevated chromium levels
with the in Froom Creak and the study found
eventualgoal Access from Sterling Drive(coor- no evidence of chromium or other
dinates: 35015'22"/120042'07" is contamination, leaching, etc. For the
of linking limited to City maintenance crews, precise locations of these mines refer
local residents, and special access to figure 6.
City-owned for the handicapped,which can be
open space achieved by contacting the Parks and 2.6.ARCHEOLOGICAL RESOURCES
Recreation Department.
with the IHNR has a number of archeological
State-owned Power Driven Mobility Devices sites within its boundaries. Several ar-
cheological sites have been identified
Montana De The City of San Luis Obispo is com- in areas near IHNR, but only one small
miffed to include the disabled in all site has been identified within IHNR,in
Oro State of its services, programs and ac- studies conducted for various projects
Park. tivities.Although the use of Power in the past and by studies commis-
Driven Mobility Device (PDMD)are sioned by the City since the past two
permitted within IHNR, use is still years(Gibson 2009, Heritage Discover-
subject to all Open Space rules and ies 2010 and 2011). None of the sites
CINN"IIIN NIN in H, regulations as stated in Chapter are affected by anticipated trail align-
11A NIRS Nif flit I[Aq 12.22 of the Open Space Regula- ments,and because of slops and the
ml I tions. PDMD access will be provided nature of the vegetation of trail routes
easement in favor of the Pacific Provide the
Gas and Electric Company(PG&E).
This easement allows the construc- public with
tion and maintenance of power a safe and
transmission lines across a portion
of IHNR. The easement is 100 feet pleasing
wide and extends across IHNR for
a distance of approximately 9,500 natural
;. feet. A total of eight transmission environment
towers occur along this easement
. within the boundaries of IHNR. in which to
' ., v The easement also allows PG&E
reasonable access to the towers pursue passive
for maintenance purposes. Access recreational
` occurs primarily along several roads
constructed by PG&E when the activities,
-_•-,,i transmission line was installed in while
s �
the 1960's. These roads are there-
. -SrN
fore considered permanent and are minimizing
no further archeological studies are incorporated into the trail system of the impact on
considered necessary (Heritage Discov- IHNR as much as practical.
eries 2011). the wildlife
There are several other easements
The one site within IHNR will remain or similar land-use restricting cov- and habitats
unmarked in order to preserve its enants that affect all or portions of represented.
existing natural condition and prevent IHNR, some of which overlap one
disturbance or vandalism. another. These include:
2.7. LEGAL AGREEMENTS 1. Enrollment of the entire
property(except the BLM parcel)
The nature of land acquisitions that under CFR 6(03. This en-
rollment is a requirement
have led to the creation of IHNR have
resulted in a number of legal agree- of Federal grant monies ob- �1
ments. Legal agreements affecting the tained under the Land and Water
Irish Hills Natural Reserve fall into three
Conservation Fund program. The
categories: (1) easements allowing
requirement restricts the entire
certain physical improvements by other Property to park and recreation
parties; (2)conservation easements or purposes in perpetuity. -
other deed restrictions restricting the 2. Deed restriction for the
ability of the City of San Luis Obispo to former Foster property portion of "
undertake actions not consistent with IHNR. The 154 acre portion of IHNR
those easements,and (3)other types of was acquired in part with a grant
easements or deed restrictions. from the State Coastal Resource
By far the most important of the first
Assistance Grant program. A re- IBISNIWlI NITH11 15V
category above is the transmission line quirement of that program is a deed pflGf 11
r ction restricting the property t,._ Nature Conservancy grant. The
to park and recreation purposes in easement is held by the Land Con-
perpetuity. servancy of San Luis Obispo County,
3. Deed restriction for the Froom and restricts the property to open
Ranch portion of IHNR. This 310 space and passive recreational uses.
acre portion of IHNR was acquired The easement further gives the Land
in part with funds granted by the Conservancy the right to prevent
Nature Conservancy of California, or stop certain uses which it deems
which required a restrictive covenant inconsistent with the purposes of the
restricting that portion of the prop- easement,upon reasonable meet and
erty to park and open space uses, confer requirements.
In keeping with a penalty clause should any part
with the
of said property be lost to such use, The net effect of these restrictions is
whether or not the City of San Luis to make permanent protection of the
City's Obispo had any control over such natural resources of the property the
Loss. cornerstone of land use. Reasonable
commitment 4. Conservation easement for recreational uses consistent with the
to the the Froom Ranch portion of IHNR. wildland character of the site(i.e., hik-
This was another requirement of ing, biking,equestrian) uses are con-
conservation sidered consistent with the conserva-
tion purposes of
of native The land-use designations proposed for the IHNR the property.
wildlife and are shown in Fig. 7. Four designations are represent-
ed: The primary
vegetation, example of the
Habitat 1046.5 acres 94.3%
76.5% of the Cultural/Historic 3 acres 0.2% third type of
Management/Trail Corridor 47 acres 4.2% easement is an
Irish Hills Restoration 13.5 acres 1.3% avigation ease-
ment in favor of
Natural Agricultural land is not represented as there is none within the County of
Reserve the current boundaries of the IHNR that meet the criteria San Luis Obispo.
for agricultural land as defined in the "Conservation Guide- This easement
lines for Open Space Lands of the City of San Luis Obispo."
has been � permits the use
of the airspace
designated over IHNR for
as `Habitat' low-flying
aircraft on ap-
proaches to, or
departures from,
the San Luis
Obispo County
Airport,which is
about four miles
UN VIIIIN IIIN IN 11,
IIISN NIM NIME IISII11 CONTINUED
ml H ON PAGE 22
ce 3
.QI l
� S
0 0.6 Miles
0 VCS N R BOUNDARY 0 MANAGEMENT AREA
0 CREEKS AND SEEPS 0 HAEOTAT AREA
TRAILS 0 RESTORATION ARES
PROPOSED TRAILS � CULTURAL AREA (MINES)
FIGURE 7.
SYSTEM MAP - LAND USE DESOGMATMMS WOTHON 7HE MH 11M Nlf BN[ N[S m
WSH H5LLS MArURA0_ RG;sERvE PRG[ N
These tasks will t'k a east of IHNR. It would limit sN,rugs in a natural state, and provide
certain urban uses of the land, but suitable habitat to all native aquatic
be undertaken given the open space and recreation and riparian species.To minimize the
over the next designation,the easement does not impacts of harmful activities,such as
significantly restrict the use of the the release of pollutants,while main-
5- to 7-year cycle, reserve. taining the creek system as a means of
to accomplish conveying storm water within urban
�1 q areas.
the stated City �• UO(�IS
Y Y • To conserve and protect native
goals as well as �HIM
�M10—
plant and animal species and enhance
recommendations their habitats,in order to maintain vi-
able wildlife populations within baL-
from the general The document "Conservation Guide- anced ecosystems.
Lines for Open Space Lands of the
public. City of San Luis Obispo" describes To minimize the use of existing
management guidelines roads as hiking trails by properly plan-
^�' and policies designed to ning, designing, and executing the con-
achieve the stated goals struction of single-track trails in areas
$m Q O of the Conservation and where such construction can be done
` - R t Open Space Element of without undue environmental impact
b " P P
the City's General Plan,
o L which was updated in These goals will be achieved by the
a 2006.Among the poli- designation of land use categories
w i
cies in the Element that within IHNR as described in the "Con-
are relevant to IHNR are servation Guidelines." Designation of
the following: land use categories for IHNR is shown
on the system map in figure 7.
• To conserve,enhance, and
plant communities;
toprotect sensitive and endangered
�• CO�SerVa��On nlgn
II GI ur all
plant species and their habitats; and
to maintain biodiversity of native The Conservation Plan describes how
plants and animals. the City intends to manage IHNR to
fulfill adopted City goals and the
• To provide the public with a safe recommendations of the community
and pleasing natural environment in for the property.The land use designa-
which to pursue passive recreational tions proposed for IHNR are shown on
activities,while maintaining the the system map (Fig. 7).The general
integrity of the resource and mini- day-to-day management of these areas
mizing the impact on the wildlife and will be in accordance with the City-ad-
habitats represented. opted document"Conservation Guide-
CVNSfflVflilVN PIflN ioA iNi lines for Open Space Lands of the City
1111 HMHfl1VNfll RESERVE To preserve and restore creeks, of San Luis Obispo."The conservation
Pw Hwetlands and ephemeral seeps or plan also describes a series of tasks
to be implemented in order to achievio in community workshops and we3 Space
the recommendations from the general incorporated into the updated Con-
public. servation Plan to accomplish the is to place
stated City goals and recommenda- as eternity
4.1. SYSTEM MAP tions,identified in appendix 2.
is to time.
94% of IHNR has been designated as To achieve the previously men- _Joseph
'Habitat.'This figure will increase to tioned goals IHNR must be managed
approximately 95.4% as restoration in accordance with the City adopted Joubert
projects are completed and the restored policies described in "Conservation
Land upgraded. Guidelines for Open Space Lands of
the City of San Luis Obispo."
Three large tracts of uninterrupted,
wildlife habitat exist in the northwest Many of the policies described
and southern regions of IHNR(Fig. 7). in "Conservation Guidelines for
In the interest of wildlife conservation Open Space Lands of the City of
and the protection of several sensitive San Luis Obispo" are designed to
species,these areas shall be maintained protect City open space by restrict-
in their present condition and human ing activities that may negatively
intrusion discouraged. impact valuable resources(e.g.
prohibition of trail construction in
The areas identified as 'Management' 'Habitat' areas. Implementation of
include land adjacent to the open such restrictions requires no active
space/urban interface lying to the east management or changes in prevail-
of IHNR. Portions of these areas may ing conditions or activities. Howev-
require periodic pruning, mowing, or er, several other policies do require
clearing of vegetation to reduce fuel active management and will result
hazards for adjacent properties, main- in changes of resource conditions or
tain defensible spaces for fire fighting their use. Policies requiring active
capabilities,and protect power lines management are:
traversing the area.
4.2.1. Maintenance vegetation
The'Restoration' areas identified in thinning will be undertaken in
figure 7 include:two grasslands requir- 'Management/Trail Corridor' areas
ing a program of exotic vegetation as identified in figure 7. Thinning
removal,one bootleg trail which has of native vegetation will only occur
been created along a stream bed, exotic when necessary to improve public
plant control near the mine site,and the safety on trails, reduce fuel loads at
decommissioning of the remainder of the urban/open space interface,or
the Froom Creek jeep Road. as occasional maintenance under
power lines.
4.2. NEEDS ANALYSIS
4.2.2. Erosion control practices CM[PIMN MH iH W
The following tasks were identified will continue to be utilized in 'Trail IIM IlM NIMIt ICSR
through comments made by the public Corridor' areas and 'Restoration' Pw N
a identified in figure 7.This will
involve the implementation of ac- 4.2.7. Official trailheads have been es-
ceptable trail modifications to reduce tablished at Prefumo Canyon Road and
erosive forces caused by the accumu- Madonna Road, as shown in figure 6.
lation of water on the trail. Erosion
control measures will also incorpo- 4.2.8. Sections of trail identified as
rated into the restoration plan for 'Proposed'will be constructed over the
Froom Creek Trail. next 7 year cycle of this Conservation
4.2.3. Prescribed burning may be uti- Plan.
lized as a management tool to reduce
vegetative fuel loads in identified 4.2.9. Restoration activities have been
'Management' areas and 'Habitat' completed in six of the seven previ-
areas where these activities can be ously determined 'Restoration' areas
controlled in extent. Such activities identified in the 2003 IHNR Conserva-
will be conducted in accordance with tion Plan.These included the closure
the Wildfire Preparedness Plan for and re-vegetation of degraded sec-
The IHNR(Section 4.3), and shown on tions of the trail network,a program
current
figure 8. of exotic species removal(e.g. broom
[Cytisus]and pampas/jubata grass
trail system 4.2.4. Defensible spaces will be [Cortaderia],and a program to stabi-
maintained at the urban/open space lize an eroding section of Froom Creek
shall be interface in 'Management' areas.The Road.
width and location of these spaces
maintained will be in accordance with the Wild-
4.2.10. It has been deemed infeasible
as is, with the fire Preparedness Plan (Section 4.3). to allow for livestock grazing within
the grasslands in IHNR due primarily to
option to add a 4.2.5.All areas of IHNR maybe excessive infrastructure cost.The costs
loop should the closed to the public during periods associated with the installation and
of extreme fire hazard or other emer- maintenance of fencing, provisions
necessary land gencies. of adequate water, and gates needed
be acquired at to keep cattle within the designated
R 4.2.6. Hiking; bird watching etc.will grazing area outweighed the benefits
a future be permitted and encouraged in of doing so.Approximately i mite of
areas designated as 'Management/ fence was needed to enclose the des-
date. Trail Corridors'and 'Cultural/Historic' ignated grazing area,at an estimated
in Fig. 7. Passive recreation will be to cost roughly $20,000 in 2005.
discouraged in all other areas. Moun-
tain biking;equestrian activities etc. The following additional policies have
will only be permitted on designated been and will continue to be imple-
trails located in 'Management/Trail mented to address recommendations
Corridor' areas identified in Fig. 7. made by the public.
Trails which are susceptible to ero-
sion, pass through sensitive habitat, 4.2.11.As funding and purchasing
UN HIIIIN PION In JU or are in restoration areas may be opportunities arise IHNR will be ex-
EH HMIs NRIIII IMM closed to active recreational activi- panded,with the eventual goal of
% ties.
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(y � 1,�A �.4.' S 11 rl. Y T�� '. /li � � i�•-�'�)\ 1y 1�M NG I�r� � ,1' , t,. ` r" �-_S 1�,�,� « _y�
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+��,, �.r r ����•'�'"-��iy:�\ :Ca'���"Qt ..1�'i�1 i f ( "w� ''�'I \ V, �ar. l � �i n{+l` ''1
_,_C.•3,.,.t\'�_l.. i>,..eX".+ _ '.- yL,r. L teeli+, �..:'-��',_�.x_.... .\�, ..i�\�^\\tj.-iFv�,�� \�' • iL\?��ICI�,I��•
Active p ?rns of visitor use(e.g. hiking; pvied as access to IHNR for disabled
mountain biking;equestrian, etc.); persons and for emergencies is cur-
fire fighting changes in trail width; and popula- rently accessible, even closely after
areas act as a tion dynamics of the endangered rain events.Access via this point will
Chorro Creek bog thistle. Monitor- be restricted and gate keys will be
buffer between ing programs will be designed to available by request to the Parks and
surrounding
identify changes in the condition of Recreation Department(recommenda-
a given resource. Identification of tion 3.11).
urban such changes beyond an acceptable
level will result in the implementa- 4.2.17.The trail systems have been
developments tion of corrective measures. Update: and will continue to be mapped and
and pristine General observations have been routes identified with trail markers.
and will continue to be made by the All signage will be unobtrusive and of
habitat Ranger Service as well as City regis- a consistent style. Maps of approved
tered volunteers as to the state and routes and access points have been
where heavy needs of trails and these needs will made available at the Madonna trail-
equipment and be addressed by the Ranger Service head in the form of an informational
as they arise. kiosk,in IHNR brochure, and will be
fuel breaks can made available at the Prefumo Canyon
be utilized to 4.2.14• Fire risk warning signs have trailhead in the future.
been and will continue to be posted
protect life and at official access points to the prop 4.2.18.Vegetation alongside trails will
erty from May through October. be managed to increase visibility on
property from blind corners and reduce the risk of
an advancing 4.2.15.The current trail system shall collisions.Additionally,a code of trail
be maintained,with the option to etiquette will be published on IHNR
wildfire. add additional loops should the nec- brochure,and at the official trailheads,
essary land be acquired at a future in addition, "BeLL Boxes" have been
date, or if deemed necessary. installed at both the Madonna and
Prefumo Canyon trailheads and bells
4.2.16.The paved road extending have donated for mountain bike use,in
from Sterling Drive will be retained, order to notify hikers of their presence
but the unpaved section shall not be upon approach.
CRNSfflVflRIRN PIRN ioR 1H
IRISR NIIIS N11HRI RESERVE
0 0
C,��) �\ � /�; 0 9T Via c ,�"� r... � ' n 4,fp� -� • y, *u
aO i� ♦ .'c f ry ry ':
p s
G � �
0 0.6 Miles
VHNR BOUNDARY D FUEL MANAGEMENT AREA
CREEKS AND SEEPS ACTIVE FIRE FIGHTING AREA
TRAILS POTENTIAL PRESCRIBED BURN AREA
PROPOSED TRAILS PASSIVE FIRE FIGHTING AREA
FIGURE 8.
CUffSEflVBiION Pl9N r.:
MLDI� RIE PREPAREDNESS PLAN FOR 4Hff_ IRISN NIffS f�IHM BfS m
4 c19. Funding in the form of State, sled due to the potential for gas
federal and private educational accumulation within the openings and
grants shall be pursued to provide the fact that such areas may represent
educational resources on the site. habitat for sensitive wildlife species
Alternatively,funds may be collected such as bats.
to contribute to a single educa-
tional center providing information 4.2.21. No trash cans or toilet facili-
about the entire open space system ties will be provided within IHNR.At
planned for in the Laguna Lake Park trailheads,and on all IHNR educational
development plan. Educational materials, users will be encouraged to
resources will be made available adopt the 'pack-in, pack-out' philoso-
via IHNR brochure, and on trailhead phy with regards to garbage and waste.
signage. This principal has worked well at other
City open spaces in the past.
4.2.20. In the interest of public safety
the location of all mine openings on 4.2.22.The City biologist,in conjunc-
CUNSfPIMN PION joR iNi IHNR will be identified and fenced off tion with consultants and students.
IUISN NIM NIHIII flfUfflYf if they constitute a hazard. However, from Cal Poly,will expand the current
PflGf 28 openings will not be completely biological inventory for IHNR. Spe-
Specific Tasks, Years 1-2
> Construct connectors from Froom Creek Trail to Oceanview Trail, possibly including foot
bridge over Froom Creek. _ �_--.—.---.------ --
> Begin construction of connector-from�Powerline Trail to Froom Creek Trail.
> Improve trail to BLM"parcel and include vista point.
> Identify-and initiate trail realignments where feasible and appropriate.
> Make contact with PG&E regarding access road maintenance protocols.
> Develop and install interpretive signage.
>Cut back excessively steep banks along Froom Creek to reduce erosion into the creek using
SEP funds.
> Initiate brush thinning in wildland interface area from Isabella Drive to Partridge Drive and
in the vicinity of the"red house"at Madonna.Road.
>Initiate and seek completion of agreements to permit trail connections to Calle Joaquin and
Johnson Ranch.
> Identify and initiate trail realignments where feasible and appropriate
> Make contact with PG&E regarding access road maintenance protocols..
> Develop and install interpretive signage.
a
- - — —� '�L.f •o'er u J ` �
>Continue above items to completion.
>Begin woodland restoration,on lower Froom Creek.
�l nom•, �,. a�
rzo
>Continue�ovelter COTr1,�E`t]dTt
� , V ��
P
;'I� _ fill' s 0 0
cifically,data will be collected on the 4.2.25.The City will continue to
temporal dynamics of Chorro Creek bog pursue the acquisition of mecha-
thistle populations;and further identi- nized trail construction equipment
fication of invertebrate,amphibian and as a more efficient means of ex-
reptile species. panding its trail network.
4.2.23. Ongoing control of Coyote 4.2.26.When possible the City will
Brush will be performed in identified abandon and decommission old
areas,to ensure that the brush does roads due to their poor trail poten-
not take over open meadows where tial and environmental impact. In
native wild flowers occur. In specific particular the City will continue the
the City will undertake brush thinning/ decommissioning of Froom Creek
removal in identified meadows on King jeep road.
Trail,where Coyote Brush is taking over
grasslands and where excessive growth 4.2.27. As opportunities arise the
can lead to high fuel loads. City will expand access points to
trails to relieve pressure on existing
4.2.24. Existing access roads will be trailheads.
used as part of the trail system where
appropriate. However,steep stretches 4.2.28. If possible, connection loop
of such roads will be considered for trail may be constructed between
ancillary, easier gradient trails if such dead end trails in order to minimize
trails can be constructed with limited potential trespassing issues that are
environmental impact. Existing trails foreseen to arise from such trails.
will also be surveyed for their potential
for reducing grades. 4.2.29.Appropriate fuel manage- COIISf�YBilUll PIBII a
1Mil EM IMM IMM
ment practices will continued to be
Pill �9
p, armed,along all areas of the Irish F,,cparedness Plan be developed for
Hills Open Space abutting residential City open space lands.After consulta-
areas. tion with the City's fire department,
four areas have been identified that
4.2.30. Continue vegetation en- will receive specific treatment with
hancements at old quarry. respect to fighting wildfires and pre-
scribed burning(Fig. 8).The process of
4.2.31. Continue exotic species con- identification of these areas takes into
trol efforts at various locations within account a number of factors including:
IHNR. Some exotic species include the topography of the land; proximity
Castor Bean,Star Thistle, French to urban developments;vegetation
Broom, and Pampas Grass. type; and the presence of sensitive
species.The areas are:
4.2.32. Undertake establishment
of"dry riparian" corridor on lower Potential prescribed burning area—
Froom Creek. areas identified as supporting a high
Load of vegetative fuel that could be
4.2.33. Consider grading along safely reduced by burning under speci-
certain reaches of Froom Creek to fied weather and wind conditions.
improve flow conditions (i.e. uncover
buried portions of creek)and reduce Fuel management area—areas adja-
further potential for sediment entry cent to the urban/wildland interface
from the decommissioned road. that could not be safely burned in a
controlled manner.These areas will
4.2.34. Decommission BMX jumps require active pruning, mowing and/or
and track behind Costco and along other active management of the veg-
trails etation to reduce fuel loads adjacent
to developed areas.
4.2.35. Continue efforts to close
bootleg trails as problems arise. Active fire fighting area- areas acting
as a buffer between the surrounding
4.2.36.As deemed necessary,the urban developments and the pristine
construction of a connection loop habitat lying to the west of IHNR.Ac-
trail may be constructed between the tive fire fighting techniques such as
top of Froom Road and the BLM prop- the use of heavy machinery and cut
erty to minimize potential trespass- ting of fuel breaks can be utilized to
ing issues that are foreseen to arise protect life and property from an ad-
from dead end trails. vancing wildfire.These areas have also
been identified because the physical
4.3 WILDFIRE resources and topography are condu-
PREPAREDNE55 PLAN cive to successful restoration efforts
following a wildfire.
"Conservation Guidelines for Open
CINSfflYfl HIM 5 H Space Lands of the Ci of San Luis Passive habitat sensitive fire fight-
ml
HIIIS NfliVflfll flfSfflYf p City � ) g
ml H Obispo" recommend that a Wildfire ing area—areas of important wildlife
habitat, mostly on steep hillsides and` 5.2 Construction of several ne References
thin serpentine-derived soils.These trail connections.
areas are also somewhat removed > Dugan,D. (2002)
from urban development.They are 5.3 Closure and revegetation of Final Survey Report
particularly sensitive to aggressive fire unsuitable roads and trails. on the Wildlife Re-
fighting techniques such as the use of sources of the Irish
heavy machinery.Therefore,wherever 5.4 Exotic plant removal or Hills Ecological Area
Tenera Environmen-
practicable,fire-fighting strategies in control along Froom Creek,the mine tal, San Luis Obispo,
these areas should be limited to low sites,and adjacent to urban areas CA 93401
impact methods.The City will conduct At this time, ongoing open space
annual mowing in grassland areas be- trail maintenance costs are not > Nature Conservancy
hind homes on Isabella, Partridge, Eto, presently budgeted for,they are of California (2001)
and DeVaul Ranch Drives at a width of however completed on an as need- Coastal Watershed
20-30 feet.The City will also continue ed basis by the Parks and Recreation Conservation Plan❑
to mow the meadow at the North end Ranger and his part-time tempo- Irish Hills 99 pp
of Isabella Street on an annual basis rary staff. With the new proposed > Smith,C.T &
as well as conduct regular(every 5+ projects associated with the devel- Griggs,A.B.(1944)
years) brush abatement in the previ- opment of the trails in Froom Ranch Chromite Deposits
ously stated areas behind homes up to there is some minor funding antici- near San Luis Obispo,
a distance of 200 feet from homes and pated is anticipated in 2011-2012. San Luis Obispo
as deemed necessary. The first of the above projects is the County, California
most costly and will require specific Strategic Minerals
4.4 IMPLEMENTATION funding to construct. Investigations, United
States Department
The priority and order in which various The City Council is expected to al- of the Interior. U.S.printing Office,Wash-
tasks will implemented is detailed in locate an additional $85,000 during ington DC pp 23-44
the table identified as "Specific Tasks, fiscal 2011-2013 to provide fund-
Tears 1-2" on page 28. ing support for the other project >City of San Luis
types listed. This funding support Obispo,Natural Re-
s. �Ipngl S�aCe�eDt will primarily be in the form of sources Program
dllua ul alp+ IIIGII�I+ funds for materials,funding for part (2002)
time temporary ranger hours, and Conservation
for minor use of contractors where Guidelines for Open
The fiscal impact of the adoption of the Space Lands of the
Conservation Plan is expected to be necessary. City of San Luis
minor. It will consist of routine patrol Obispo
and monitoring of the property at es- The anticipated trail projects will 25 pp
sentially the same scale as occurs now, mostly be constructed using volun-
and implementation of several capital teer labor, coordinated by Ranger
improvements. Services;therefore no formal time-
These include: table is set for their completion.
This expansion of the trail system
5.1 Continued decommissioning of results in an increase in responsibil-
the Froom Creek jeep road and associ- ities for the City's Natural Resources
and Ranger staffs and equipment CUNSIU [ Nfl PIUU
NIIIiIH iHi
ated activity. gIRISN S fliUUfll flfS[flVE
Pfl6l 31
r, s,and some increase especially
of the latter may become necessary
in the future.
The Wildfire Preparedness Plan has
certain maintenance costs associated
with regular(annual in some cases,
every few years in others) mowing or
pruning of vegetation to ensure an
acceptable level of fuel load man-
agement between IHNR and adjacent
developed properties. Larger scale
efforts such as prescribed burning or
significant vegetation manipulation
(such as meadow restoration)will be
pursued as resources become avail-
able.
HUMID NIN oR ifl�
INISN NM NNINNNI IMP[
m[ R
G
THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
CRNSERVflIIRN PIRN iofl ihi
IIM RlM N111M IPSRIVP
ml 33
�. ."ENDIX 1 .
SOIL TYPE DESCRIPTIONS
FOR THE IRISH HILLS NATURAL RESERVE
LOS OSOS loams have developed consisting of chamise(Adenostoma
on 13.5 acres of the IHNR in the fasciculatum), scrub oak (Quercus
eastern corner of the property. berberidifolia), and, in protected
They occur above the sandstone sites, scattered coast live oak (Quer-
and shale in the melange (Francis- cus agrifolia).
can Formation). Los Osos clayloams
appear dark grayish brown and fi ne CIBO clays are found on 7.2 acres
textured at the surface. Underneath adjacent to Prefumo Creek in the
they are primarily brown to yellow- northern region of the IHNR. They de-
ish brown heavy clay loam. They velop primarily from shale and occur
have relatively slow permeability, above Toro and Melange.The Cibo
are well drained,and have medium clays are dark brown cobbly clays
runoff. The effective rooting depth over brown to dark brown heavy clay
is 20 to 40 inches.The pH is slightly loam or clay. They develop through
to medium acid to neutral.Vegeta- the weathering of basic igneous
tion is mostly annual grasses and. rocks.They have slow permeability,
forbs with some perennial grasses, are well drained,and have medium
coastal sagebrush (Artemisia cali- to very rapid runoff.The effective
fornica),and coast live oak (Quer- rooting depth ranges from 20 to 40
cus agrifolia). inches. Cibo clays can be slightly acid
to mildly alkaline. Cover is usually
DIABLO complex soils are found in annual grasses and forbs.
association with Los Osos soils on
32 acres on sloping land to the east GAVIOTA soils are found on 20.5
of the IHNR. They are formed from acres in the northern/central region
weathered sandstone, shale, and of the IHNR. They are a brown to dark
conglomerate.The surface layers grayish brown fi ne sandy loam, de-
include brown gravelly loam un- veloped from light yellowish brown
derneath undecomposed leaves. sandstone.They have moderately
Beneath is a light yellowish brown rapid permeability,are well drained,
gravelly loam over bedrock. May- and have medium to rapid runoff.
men sandy loams have relatively Their effective rooting depth is from
slow permeability, are well drained, six to 20 inches. They are medium
and have medium runoff.The ef- acid to neutral. Uncultivated areas
fective rooting depth is approxi- have a cover of annual grasses and
mately 15 inches,with a few large forbs. Steeper areas usually have a
woody roots that grow through cover of brush.
the rocky substrate to 60 inches in
CIISIIMII depth. Maymen soils are medium OBISPO-ROCK OUTCROP is the most
VISI Alli ILIUM WIVE to strongly acidic.Vegetation is common substrate type within the
ml 3i usually open stands of chaparral IHNR,and is found on 600.5 acres.
These often support soils which arED spp.). Naturalized cover include Obispo-Rock
very dark gray at the surface. Be- annual grasses and forbs.
neath the top layer is black,yellowish Outcrop is the most
brown, or olive colored serpentinite. SALINAS soils are typically deep common substrate
This soil type has very slow perme- and well drained,formed in a
ability. Obispo rock-outcrops are very luvium or weathered from sand- type within IHNR,
well drained and have rapid to very stone and shale. Salinas soils are
rapid runoff.Their effective rooting found on alluvial plains,fans, and
depth is between eight and 20 inches. terraces and have slopes of 0 to 9
Their pH ranges from moderately percent. Within the IHNR Salinas
alkaline to neutral.The sparse vegeta- soils are found on 7.3 acres adja-
tive cover on Obispo-rock outcrops cent to Prefumo Creek to the north
and associated soils consists of scat- of the property.They are found at
tered shrubs such as leather oak elevations of 50 to 2,000 feet.The
(Quercus durata),toyon (Heteromeles climate is dry subhumid meso-
arbutifolia), and sagebrush (Artemisia thermal with cool to warm rainless
fasciculatum),as well as grasses and summers with some fog and cool
forbs. moist winters. Mean annual pre-
cipitation is 12 to 20 inches.They
Henneke soils and clays associated are well drained soils, with slow
with Obispo-rock outcrops often have to medium runoff and moderately
a half-inch covering of fresh or partly slow permeability.
decomposed leather oak leaf litter
mixed with dark reddish brown very CONCEPCION soils are deep and
gravelly loam. Beneath this surface moderately well drained,formed
layer is brown,very cobbly or gravelly from weakly consolidated stratifi
clay loam or clay over serpentinite. ed alluvium or wind-deposited
The permeability of these soils is sandy material. Concepcion soils
moderately slow.They are somewhat found on terraces adjacent to, or
excessively drained. They have an ef- within several miles of the Pacifi
fective rooting depth of approximate- c Ocean and are found on just 5.2
Ly ten to 20 inches.Their pH ranges acres adjacent to Prefumo Creek
from mildly to moderately alkaline. within the IHNR. Slopes are 0 to
50 percent.The mean annual pre-
LODO is a grayish brown to very dark cipitation is about 17 inches and
grayish brown shaly clay loam over the mean annual air temperature
dark grayish brown hard shale. It has is about 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
moderate permeability,is somewhat Concepcion soils are on nearly
excessively drained, and has medium level to steep terraces adjacent
to rapid runoff. Lodo soils are found at elevations of is 40 to 200 feet.
on 28.5 acres within the IHNR.The The climate is subhumid meso-
effective rooting depth is from four thermal with cool, rainless, but
to 20 inches. It is slightly acid. Native foggy summers, and cool moist
vegetation is primarily chaparral,with winters. IBISNINIIISflNI1V8Bl 8f HU
some buckwheat(Eriogonum fascicu- PflG( 35
Tatum) and scattered oaks (Quercus
n
E._ ANDIX 2. U
PUBLIC COMMENT
FOR THE IRISH MILLS NATURAL RESERVE
2003 Public Comment of'Limits of Acceptable Change' de-
scribed in "Conservation Guidelines
The Conservation Plan aims to for Open Space Lands of the City of
accommodate the desires and San Luis Obispo." Where possible,
wishes of the general public for volunteer groups should be used to
the IHNR, as well as addressing help with the monitoring program.
the goals of the City's Open Space Long-term trends in the popula-
Element. The specific recommen- tion dynamics of sensitive species
dations detailed below are the should be monitored.
result of input from members of
the public during a workshop, and Warnings of the level of fire risk
suggestions from the City Plan- should be posted at trailheads Bur-
ning Commission, and the Parks ing the summer months.
and Recreation Commission.
Mountain biking within the IHNR
The IHNR should be expanded should be permitted, and the local
when possible,with the eventual mountain bike community encour-
goal of linking City-owned open aged to be actively involved in the
space with the State-owned Mon- maintenance of the trail system.
tana de Oro state park. Linkages
(trails) at the perimeter of the The extent of the trail system on
property should be preserved in the IHNR should not be reduced
anticipation of this expansion. Up- from its current size; a ridge loop
date:These goals have continued trail should eventually be estab-
to be considerations of The City lished. [Update: With this conserva-
and will continue to be worked tion Plan Update several miles of
towards. new trails will be added to the Irish
Hills Natural Reserve.]
All documentation relating to the
management of the IHNR should The paved road originating at Ster-
be subject to public review and ling Drive and extending up to the
should be readily available via the old mine site should be maintained
City's website, except when the and made available to provide
information is privileged or sensi- wheelchair access. [Update: This has
tive. been deemed unnecessary because
access to the top of Irish Hills is eas-
The status of the resources rep- ily accomplished in a vehicle, even
tWIIYIiINN NIN IN resented on the IHNR should be shortly after rain events. Further-
111M NIIIN NfllUflfll flfSfflYf
monitored using the principals more the environmental impacts of
Pw 36
expanding and paving the 200-ya* [Update:Signage has been odoD
section of steep hillside would cause to the Madonna trailhead and is
unnecessary damage.] proposed for the Prefumo Canyon
trailhead as well.]
Signage on the IHNR should be
small, unobtrusive and of a con- Mountain bike access should be
sistent style. The use of fencing prohibited/discouraged during,
and flagging should be kept to a and immediately following, peri-
minimum, and a 'natural' look main- ods of heavy rain when trails are
tained wherever possible. susceptible to erosion.
The use of the IHNR for eques- Entrances to disused mine shafts
trian and mountain biking activi- should be marked and barred
ties should be monitored closely, in the interest of public safety.
and such activities prohibited if an However, shafts should not be
unacceptable level of damage to the completely sealed as they may
resource is being caused. Update: provide habitat for wildlife such
[Update. Because no current eques- as bats. Other areas, which may
trion groups have expressed interest be a hazard to public safety,
in the Irish Hills area nor have eques- should be identified and posted.
trian users been observed by The
Rangers or other user groups, within Grasslands should be preserved.
Irish Hills no further restrictions have Livestock grazing should only
been made.] be permitted in areas able to
withstand such pressure without
In the interest of safety, measures damage to the resource. Grazing
should be explored to minimize activities will be subject to the
potential conflicts between moun- conditions of a City—approved
tain bike users and hikers (e.g. grazing plan. (Update:It has been
elimination of blind corners; prun- deemed unfeasible to allow for
ing of vegetation; segregation of livestock grazing within the grass-
trail uses, etc.). [Update:Additional lands in the IHNR due to several.
signage has been put at all trailheads reasons. The negative environ-
to Irish Hills, educating users on trail mental impacts of grazing within
etiquette and "bike "Bell Boxes"have the IHNR were too high. The costs
also been installed with bells, do- associated with the installation
nated by local organizations, which and maintenance of fencing, and
can be attached to bicycles in order gates needed to keep cattle within
to notify hikers of their proximity.] the designated grazing area
outweighed the benefits of doing
Educational and interpretive sig- so. Approximately 1 mile offence
nage should be provided to increase was needed to enclose the des-
the public awareness of the value of ignated grazing area, at an esti- CVNSfVYViIVN PIVN ioa N
the resources on the property (e.g. mated to cost roughly$20,000 in INISN NIIIS NViVVVI VISENYE
serpentine soils and rare plants). 2005.1 PVVf 3)
F `.ities such as trash cans and _.en possible the City should
toilets should not be provided as abandon and decommission old
this will add to the maintenance road trails due to their poor trail
costs of the open space. potential and environmental im-
pact.
Inventory of natural resources on
the IHNR should continue. Ad- Access points to trails should be
ditional information on grasses, expanded to relieve pressure on
amphibian, and invertebrate existing trailheads.
populations is required.
Fire management practices should
2011 Public Comment continued, especially near resi-
dences.
The Conservation Plan aims to
accommodate the desires and If mine faces pose a threat to hikers
wishes of the general public for they should be fenced off or sealed.
the IHNR, as well as addressing
the goals of the City's Open Space Resource health issues should have
Element. The specific recommen- first priority over other uses, par-
dations detailed below are the titularly when it comes to rerouting
result of input from members of or installing new trails.
the public during a workshop, and
suggestions from the City Plan- Give special attention to contin-
ning Commission, and the Parks ued improvements to Froom Creek,
and Recreation Commission. Prefumo Creek and other unnamed
waterways and springs, especially
Active removal of Coyote Brush in regard to health of aquatic and
should be followed to mitigate for riparian resources.
the brushes removal which used
to occur when grazing was prat- Continue to utilize concept of"Lev-
ticed in the area to ensure that els of acceptable change" in moni-
the Mariposa Lily remains preva- toring resource and trail condition.
Lent in the area.
Prepare a grazing plan, or prohibit
Whenever possible and economi- grazing.
tally feasible the City will not use
existing fire roads or old PG&E Protect visual resources.
roads as trails as they tend to
erode quickly and require more
maintenance than single track
trails.
UNSINVNIINN FINN Boa IF The City will pursue the acquisi-
INISN NIIIS NNINNNI NIi1NVI tion of mechanized machinery in
PNsi 38 order to build more sustainable
trails in a timelier manner.
. � � C
COHSfBVfliINH PIBN iofl iAi
IRISH NIIIS NRRRRRI RfSERVf
PRGf 3S
City of San Luis Obispo Irish Ecological Area Wildlife Survey
APPENDiX 3.
Updated Biological Inventory
ESL02002-195 0 TENERA
Irish Hills Ecological Reserve—b,�I cal Inventory C
The following species have been identified as potentially occurring on, or directly adjacent to, the Irish Hills
Ecological Area open space. The references in the last column are the City report that cites the relevant
information. Entries in bold indicate species have been positively identified by City staff, or a staff
appointed biologist, as occurring on the Irish Hills Ecological Area open space.
Trees
Scientific Name Common Name Comments. Status Source
Ailanthus altissimus Tree of heaven,Simaroubaceae Introduced 3,4
Cu ressus macrocarpa Monterey cypress, Cu ressaceae Introduced to SLO 114
Eucalyptus globulds Blue gurn, Myrtaceae Introduced 114
Heteromeles arbutifolia To on, Rosaceae Native 1, 4
Phoenb(dactyfffiera Date pain Arecaceae Introduced 3, 4
Pinus spp. Unidentified pine 4
Platanus racemosa S camore,Platanaceae Native 1, 4
Pyrus communis Pear, Rosaceae Persisting from 1, 4
cultivation
Quercus a rifolia Coast live oak Fa aceae Native 114
Salix lasiole is Arroyo willow, Salicaceae, Native 1, 4
Salix coulter! Coulter willow, Salicaceae I Native 1, 4
Umbellulada califomica California bay-laurel, Lauraceae Native 114
Shrubs
Scientific.Name Common Name Comments Status $ounce
Adenostoma fasdculatum Chamise Rosaceae Native 1, 4
Arctostaphylos Obispo Manzanita, Ericaceae Native 1, 4
obis oensis
Artemisia califomica California sagebrush,Asteraceae Native 1, 4
Baccharis pilularft Coyote bush Asteraceae Native 19 4
Bacchans salicifolia Mule fat Asteraceae Native 1, 4
Ceanothus cuneatus Buckbrush, Rhamnaceae Native 1, 4
Ceanothus spinosus Greenbark ceanothus Rhamnaceae Native 1, 4
Cercocar us betuloides Mountain mahogany, Rosaceae Native 3, 4
Clematis fi usticifolia Virgin's bower, Ranunculaceae Native 1, 4
Cotoneasterpannosa Cotoneaster, Rosaceae Escaped from 1
cultivation
Dendromecon rigida Bush poppy, Pa averaceae Native 114
Enoponum elongatum Tall buckwheat Polyponaceae Native 3
Enogonum parviloluirn Coast buckwheat Polygonaceae Native
&iopftfflurn confertlflorum Golden-yarrow,Asteraceae Native 114
Galium porrigens Climbing bedstraw, Rubiaceae Native 1 4
Genista Monspessulana French broom, Fabaceae Introduced 1, 4
Hazardia s uarrosa Saw-toothed goldenbush, Asteraceae Native 1, 4
Heteromeles arbutffolia Toyon, Rosaceae Native 1, 4
Holodiscus discolor Oceanspray, Rosaceae Native 1, 4
Lonicera hispidula Honeysuckle, Ca rifoliaceae Native 1,4
Lotus scoparius Deerweed, Fabaceae Native 1,4
Mahonia pinnata Barberry,Berberidaceae Native 4
Marrubium vul are Horehound Lamiaceae Introduced 3, 4
Mimulus aurandacus Bush monkeyflower, Native 1, 4
Scrohulanaceae
Myoporum Iaetum Myoporum, Myoporaceae Escaped from 1, 4
cultivation
Osmaronia cerasHbrrrris Osoberry, Rosaceae Native 4
I
Irish Hills Ecological Resa Biological inventory
P!ckerin is montana Chaparral pea, Fabaceae Native 19 4
Prunus ilicifolia Holly-leaved cherry, Rosaceae Native 3, 4
Quercus berbendlfolia Scrub oak Fa aceae Native 3
Quercus durata Leather oak Fa aceae Native 1, 4
Rhamnus callfomica Coffee-berry, Rhamnaceae Native 1 4
Rhamnus crocea Redberry,Rhamnaceae Native 1, 4
Ribes malvaceum Chaparral currant Grossulariaceae Native 1, 4
Ribes speciosum Fuchsia4lowered gooseberry, Native 1, 41
Grossulariariaceae
Rosa califomica Rose, Rosaceae Native 1, 4
Rub us procerus Himalaya blackberry, Rosaceae Introduced 1, 4
Rubus ursinus California blackberry, Rosaceae Native 19 4
Salix lasiole is Arroyo willow, Salicaceae Native 1, 41
Salvia meflifiera Black sae Lamiaceae Native 1, 4
Sambucus mexicana Elderberry, Ca rifoliaceae Native 1 4
S m honcar us albus Snowberry, Ca rifoliaceae Native 1
Symphoncarpos mollis Snowberry, Ca rifoliaceae Native 1
Toxicodendron Poison-oak,Anacardiaceae Native 1, 4
diversilobum,
Yucca whipplei Yucca, Liliaceae Native 19 4
Herbs
Sciendfic Name Common Name Comments Status Source
Achillea millefolium Yarrow Asteraceae Native 1, 4
Acourtia micrwe hala Saca ellote Asteraceae Native 3
Acro tilon re ns Russian knapweed, Asteraceae Introduced 3
Adiantum 'ordanii Maidenhair fern Pteridaceae Native 1, 4
A oserls grandiffora Mountain dandelion,Asteraceae Native 1, 4
A rostis pallens Bent grass, Poaceae Native 1 4
A rostis viddis Water bent grass, Poaceae Introduced 1
Airs caryophyflea Hairgrass, Poaceae Introduced 1, 4
Allium lacunosum Onion Liliaceae Native 1, 4
Amaranthus albus Amaranth Amaranthaceae Introduced 1
Anagaffis arvensis Scarlet pimpernel, Primulaceae Introduced 1,3, 4
Ana halis mar aritacea Pearly everlasting,Asteraceae Native 1, 4
Anthemis cotula Mayweed Asteraceae Introduced 1, 3
A vile is formosa Crimson columbine Native 4
Arctosta h los morroensis Morro manzanita Native List 18 2, 4
Artemisia dou laslana Mu wo Asteraceae Native 11314
Asclepias fascicularis Milkweed Ascle iadaceae Native 1
Asparagus otficinalis Garden asparagus, Liliaceae Introduced 3
Aster chilensis Aster Asteraceae Native 1, 3, 4
Asterradulinus Aster Asteraceae Native 1,3, 4
Astragalus curb es Locoweed Fabaceac Native 3
Avena barbata Slender wild oats Poaceae Introduced 11314
Avena fatua Common wild oats Poaceae Introduced 1,3, 4
Avena sativa Cultivated oats Poaceae Introduced 3
Bacchans dou lash Marsh baccharis Asteraceae Native 3, 4
Bloomerla crocea Golden stars Liliaceae Native 1,3, 4
Brach odium distachyon False brome grass,Poacea, Introduced 1,3, 4
Brassica nigra Black mustard Brassicaceae Introduced 1, 3, 4
Briza minor Little quaking grass, Poaceae Introduced 114
Bromus cannatus Brome grass, Poaceae Native 3 4
Bromus catharticus Rescue grass, Poaceae Introduced 3
Bromus diandrus RipgLd brome, Poaceae Introduced 1,3, 4
Irish Hills Ecological Reserve—6':Ical inventory C
Bromus hordeaceus Soft chess brome grass, Poaceae Introduced 11314
Bromus madritensis ssp. Spanish brome, Poaceae, Introduced 1
madritensis
Bromus madritensis ssp. Red brome, Poaceae Introduced 1
Rubens
Brom us sp Perennial brome Poaceae Native 1
Calochortus albus Fairy lantern, Liliaceae Native 1737 4
Calochortus argillosus Adobe mariposa lily, Liliaceae Native 1, 3
Calochortus clavatus var. Club-haired mariposa lily, Liliaceae Native 1,3, 4
clavatus
Calochortus obis oensis San Luis mariposa lily, Liliaceae Native 1, 4
Calystegia macrostegia Wild morning to Convolvulaceae Native 1,3, 4
Calystegia subacaulis var. San Luis Obispo County morning Native 1,3, 4
episcopalism glory,Convolvulaceae,
Capsea bursa astons Shepherd's purse, Brassicaceae Introduced 1, 4
Cardamine ofigospenna Bittergrass, Brassicaceae Native 3
Carduus pycnocephatus Italian thistle,Asteraceae Introduced 1,3, 4
Carex obis oensis San Luis Obispo sedge, Cyperaceae Native List 1 B 1, 2 3 4
Carex senta Sedge, Cyperaceae Native 1, 4
Carex subfusca Sedge, Cyperaceae Native 1
Casolleja affrnis ssp. Indian paintbrush, Scrophulariaceae Native 1,3, 4
Affrnis
Centaurea calcitra a Purple star thistle Asteraceae Introduced 314
Centaurea melitensis Tocolote, Asteraceae Introduced 11314
Centaurea solstitialis Yellow star thistle Asteraceae Introduced 1,3, 4
Cerashum glomeratum Mouse-ear chickweed, Introduced 1, 4
Caryoph laceae
Chamomilla suaveolens Pineapple weed Asteraceae Introduced 1, 3, 4
Chlorogalum Soap plant, Liliaceae Native 1, 4
pomeddianum ssp.
Pomeridianum
Chondrilla juncea Skeleton weed, Asteraceae Introduced 3
Chorizanthe brewed Brewer's s ineflower Polygonaceae Native List 1 B 1 2 3,4
Chonzarithe palmen Palmer's s ineflower Polygonaceae Native 3
Cichrium in us Chicory,Asteraceae Introduced 3, 4
Cirsium brevislylum Indian thistle Asteraceae Native 1, 4
Citsium fontinale var. Chorro creek bog thistle Native List 1B :214
obis oense
Cirsium vul are Bull thistle Asteraceae Introduced 1, 3, 4
Clarkia purpures ssp. Wine cups, Onagraceae Native 3. 4
uadrivulnera
Conium maculatum Poison hemlock A iaceae Introduced 1, 4
Convolvulus arvensis Bindweed Convolvulaceae Introduced 1, 3, 4
Conyza bonariensis Con za Introduced 3
Conyza canadensis Horseweed Asteraceae Introduced 1, 4
Cord lanthus.ri idus Bird's beak Scro hulariaceae Native 1, 3
Crassula cannata PVgrny weed Crassulaceae Native 1
Cryptantha clevelandii Cryptantha,Bora inaceae Native 1,3,4
C nodon dact lon Bermuda grass, Poaceae Introduced 1, 3, 4
Cyperus eragrostis Umbrella sedge, Cypemceae Native. 1, 3, 4
Cyperus involucratus Umbrella sedge,Cyperaceae Introduced 1, 4
Dactylis glomerata Orchard grass, Poaceae Introduced 1, 4
Danthonia califomica Oatgrass, Poaceae Native 1 4
Datura stramonium Jimson weed Solanaceae Introduced 1
Daucus carota Carrot, A iaceae Introduced 3
3
Irish Hills Ecological Rese -Biological Inventory
Daucus pusillus Wild carrot A iaceae Native 1 3, 4
Delphinium parryl Larkspur, Ranunculaceae Native 3, 4
Descharnjos4a elongata Hair grass, Poaceae Native 1
Dimorphotheca sinuate African daisy, Asteraceae Escaped from 1
cultivation
Di sacus sativus Teasel, Dipsacaceae Introduced 1, 4
Diyopteris ar uta Wood fern, Dryopteridaceae Native 1,3, 4
Dudleya abramsii San Luis Obispo dudleya, Native 3
Crassulaceae
Dudleya bettinae San Luis serpentine dudleya, Native List 1 B 2
Crassulaceae
Dudleya blochmaniae Blochman's dudle s Crassulaceae Native 3
Dudleya lanceolata Dudleya, Crassulaceae Native 1, 4
Eleocharis macrostach Spike-rush, Cyperaceae Native 1, 4
Elymuse oides Squirreltail grass, Poaceae Native 1,3 4
El us laucus Blue wild rye, Poaceae Native 113, 4
4
E ilobium brach car um Annual willow-herb Ona raceae Native 3
E ilobium cavum Califomia-fuchsia Ona raceae Native 1, 3
E uisetum telmateia Giant horsetail E uisetaceae Native 1L4
Eremobarpus seti eros, Turkey mullein Eu horbiaceae Native 1, 4
Erigeron foliusus var. Fleabane daisy, Asteraceae Native 1, 3
foliosus
Erodium botrys Storkbill filaree Geraniabeae Introduced 3, 4
Erodium cicutanum Redstem filaree Geraniaceae Introduced 1, 3, 4
Erodiun moschatum Green-stem filaree Geraniaceae Introduced 3, 4
Eschscholzia calffomica California poppy, Pa averaceae Native 1,3, 4
Eu horbia peplus _Pettysure Eu horbiaceae Introduced 1, 4
Eu horbia s athulata Sure Eu horbiaceae Native 1, 3
Fila ocalifomica Herba im is Asteraceae Native 1, 3
Filago gaffica Herba im is Asteraceae Introduced 1
Foeniculum vul are Fennel A iaceae Introduced 1, 3, 4
Fritillaria Mora Chocolate bells, Liliaceae Native 1,3, 4
Fntillana vindea San Benito fritillary Native List 1 B 2
Fra aria vesca Strawberry, Rosaceae Native 1, 4
Galium andrewsonii Prickly bedstraw, Rubiaceae Native 1 3
Galium californicum California bedstraw, Rubiaceae Native 1 3, 4
Galium porngens Climbing bedstraw, Rubiaceae Native 3
Gastridium ventricosum Nit grass, Poaceae Introduced 1 3
Geranium dissectum Annual geranium, Geraniaceae Introduced 1 3
Gilia achilleifolia Gilia Polemoniaceae Native 3
Gna halium bicolor Everlasting, Asteraceae Native 1
Gna halium califomicum Everlasting,Asteraceae Native 1, 3,4
Gnaphafiurn canescens Everlasting,Asteraceae Native 114
Gna halium luteoalbum Cudweed Asteraceae Introduced 1, 3
Gna halium purpureurn Everlasting,Asteraceae Native 1, 4
Gnaphafium stramineum Everlasting,Asteraceae Introduced 1 4
Grindelia hirsutula Gum dant Asteraceae Native 3
Hainardia c lindncal 1
Hazardia s uarrosa Saw-toothed goldenbush, Asteraceae Native 3, 4
Helenium puberulum Sneezeweed,Asteraceae Native 1,3, 4
Helianthus annuus Sunflower Asteraceae Native 3
Heltotro ium curassavicum Heliotrope, Bora inaceae Native 3
Hemizonia congests ssp. Hayfield tarweed, Asteraceae Native 1, 3, 4
luzuilfolia
Hemizonia parryi Con don's tarplant, Asteraceae Native 3
4
lnsh Hills Ecological Reserve—b,)gical Inventory 0
Hes erevax sparsiflora Hes erevax Asteraceae Native 3
Hes tenon micranthum Miniature flax Linaceae Native 1, 4
Heterotheca grandiflora Telegraph weed Asteraceae Native 1
Hirschfeldia incana Perennial mustard Brassicaceae Introduced 1, 3
Hoita orbicularis Hoita Fabaceae Native 1
Hordeum brach antherum Native barley, Poaceae Native 1
Hordeum marinum Mediterranean barley, Poaceae Introduced 1,3, 4
Hordeum murinum Foxtail barley, Poaceae Introduced 1,3, 4
Hordeum vul are Cultivated barley, Poaceae Introduced 3
H___ochaeris glabra Smooth cat's ear, Asteraceae Introduced 1,3, 4
Hypochaens radicata Rough cat's ear, Asteraceae Introduced 3
Juncus bufonius Toad rush Juncaceae Native 1
Juncus patens Spreading rush Juncaceae Native 1737 4
Juncus phaeocephalus Brown-headed rush, Juncaceae Native 1
Juncus xi hioides Rush, Juncaceae Native 3, 4
Koeleria macrantha June grass, Poaceae Native 3
Lactuca sali na Slender lettuce Asteraceae Introduced 1,3 4
Lactuca serriola Prickly lettuce,Asteraceae Introduced 1,3, 4
La o h Ila ramosissima La o h Ila Asteraceae Native 1, 3
Lamarckia aurea GoIdentop grass, Poaceae Introduced 3, 4
Lasthenia califomica Gold fields Asteraceae Native 3
Lathyrus odoratus Sweet pea, Fabaceae Escaped from 1
cultivation
Lathyrus vestitus var. Sweet pea, Fabaceae Native List 1B 1, 2, 3
vestitus
La is jonesii Jones la is Native List 1 B 2
Le idium nitidum Peppergrass, Brassicaceae Native 3
Le idium oblong um Peppercress, Brassicaceae Native 1, 3
Lessingia filaginifolia var. California-aster, Asteraceae Native 1, 3
filaginifolia
Loyinus condensatus Giant wild—rye, Poaceae Native 1,3, 4
Le mus triticoides Beardless wild-rye, Poaceae Native 1, 4
Lilium pardalinum var. Leopard lily Native 4
rdalinum
Lobularia maritime Sweet alyssum, Brassicaceae Introduced 1
Lolium multiflorum Ryegrass, Poaceae Introduced 1,3, 4
Lomatium carufolium Biscuit root A iaceae Native 3
Lomatium parvithhurn Small-leaved lomatium,A iaceae Native 3, 4
Lomatium utriculatum Biscuit root A iaceae Native 1,3, 4
Lotus corniculatus Birds foot trefoil Fabaceae Introduced 1 3
Lotus humistratus Deervetch Fabaceae Native 1
Lotus junceus Deerweed Fabaceae Native 3, 4
Lotus purshianus Spanish-clover, Fabaceae Native 1
Lotus sp Deervetch Fabaceae Native 1
Lupinus latifolius Perennial lupine, Fabaceae Native 1
Lupinus ludovicianus San Luis Obispo County lupine, Native List 1 B 2
Fabaceae
Lu inns microcarpus Chick lupine, Fabaceae Native 1
Lu imus succulentus Succulent lupine, Fabaceae Native 1,3, 4
Lythrum h sso ifolia Loosestrife, Lythraceae Introduced 1
Madia exi ua Miniature tarweed,Asteraceae, Native 1, 4
Madia gracifis Slender tarweed Asteraceae Native 1737 4
Madia sadva Coast tarweed Asteraceae Native 1 4
Malva parvqom Mallow Malvaceae Introduced 1, 3, 4
Marah fabaceus Wild cucumber vine Cucurbitaceae Native 1, 3, 4
5
Irish Hills Ecological Rese. -Biological inventory
Medi o. o rw ha Bur-clover,Fabaceae Introduced 1137 4
Melica califomica Melic Ormss, Poaceae Native 1 4
Melica ifterfecta Melic grass, Poaceae Native 1,3, 4
Mehlotus indica Yellow sweet clover, Fabaceae. Introduced 1
Mentha pipenta Peppermint, Lamiaceae Introduced 3
Mimulus cardinalis Scarlet monkeyflower, Native 1
Scro hulariaceae
Mimulus guttatus Common monkeyflower, Native 1,3, 4
Scro hulariaceae
Monardella villosa ssp. Monardella, Lamiaceae Native 1, 3, 4
Obispoensis,
Muhlenbe is n ens Deer grass, Poaceae Native 1
Nassella le ida Slender needlegrass, Poaceae Native 1, 3, 4
Nassella pulchra Purple needlegrass, Poaceae Native 1, 3, 4
NavanWia s uarrosa Skunkweed, Polemoniaceae, Native 1, 41
Oxalis pescaprae Bermuda-buttercu Oxalidaceae Introduced 1, 4
Paeonia ca!lfomlca California peony, Paeoniaceae Native 1,374
Pellaea andromedifolia Coffee fem Pteridaceae Native 1, 3, 4
Pennisetum villosum Fountain grass, Poaceae Introduced 1
Pen gamma Irian ulans Goldback fem, Pteridaceae Native 1, 3, 4
Phacelia imbncata Phacelia H dro h Ilaceae Native 3
Phalans aguabca Harding grass, Poaceae Introduced 1, 3
Phalans minor Canarygrass, Poaceae Introduced 3
Phalans paradoxa Canary grass, Poaceae Introduced 1, 3
Phyla nodiflora Phyla, Verbenaceae Introduced 1
Picrisechioides Bristly ox-tongue, Asteraceae Introduced 1 3
Pi tatherum miliaceum Smilo Poaceae Introduced 1, 3
Plantago erecta Plantain,Planta inaceae Native 1,3, 4
Plantago lanceolata English plantain, Planta inaceae Introduced 1,374
Planta o ma or Common plantain, Planta inaceae Introduced 1, 4
Plectritis ciliosa Plectritis Valerianaceae Native 1
Poa annua Annual blue rass Poaceae Introduced 1, 3
Polygala califomica Milkwort, Polygalaceae Native 1, 4
Polygonum arenastrum Knotweed, Polygonaceae, Introduced 1
Polypodium californicum PolypodV fern Polypodiaceae Native 1, 3, 4
Pot on interru tus Ditch beard grass, Poaceae Introduced 1, 3
Polypogon monspeliensis Rabbitfoot grass, Poaceae Introduced 1,3, 4
Pteridium aquilinum Bracken fern Dennstaedtiaceae Native 1,3, 4
Ranunculus californicus Buttercup, Ranunculaceae Native 1, 3, 4
Ra Nanus sativus Wild radish Brassicaceae Introduced 1 3 4
Rorippa nasturtium- Watercress, Brassicaceae Introduced 1
uaticum
Rumex acetosella Sour dock"Polygonaceae Introduced 1, 4
Rumex conglomerates Knotted dock, Polygonaceae Introduced 1
Rumex cris us Curly dock Polygonaceae Introduced 1, 3, 4
Rumex pulcher Fiddle dock Polygonaceae Native 1, 3
Rumex salicifolius Willow-leaved dock Polygonaceae Native 1, 3
Salvia spathacea Hummingbird sae Lamiaceae Native 19394
Sanicula crassicaulis Sanicle A iaceae Native 1
Sanicula hoffmanii Hoffman's sanicle A iaceae Native 1, 3
Sanicula laciniata Sanicle A iaceae Native 3
Sanicula mantima Adobe sanicle A iaceae Native List 1 B 2
Satur a dou lasii Yerba buena, Lamiaceae Native 1,3, 4
Scandixpecten-veneris Darning needle A iaceae Introduced 1
Scrohularla califomica I Figwort, Scro hulariaceae Native -- 1,3, 4
6
Irish Hills Ecological Reserve—bical Inventory
Senecio vulgaris Common groundsel, Asteraceae Introduced 1
Sidalcea hickmanii sp. Cuesta Pass checkerbloom, Native List 1 B 2
anomala Malvaceae
Sidalcea malviflora Checker mallow, Malvaceae Native 1, 4
Silene galfica Windmill pink, Caryophyllaceae Introduced 1, 3, 4
Silene laciniata Indian pink, Caryophyllaceae Native 3
Sil bum mananum Milk-thistle Asteraceae Introduced 1, 3, 4
Sis mbnum officinale Hedge mustard Brassicaceae Introduced 1, 3
Si$yrinchidrn bellum Blue-eyed-grass, Iridaceae Native 1,3 4
Solanum douglasfi Black nightshade, Solanaceae Native 1, 3
Solanum nodiflorum Black nightshade, Solanaceae Native 3
Solidwo califomica Goldenrod Asteraceae Native 1 3 4
Sonchus asper Prickly sow-thistle,Asteraceae Introduced 1,3, 4
Sonchus oleraceus Common sow-thistle,Asteraceae Introduced 1,3, 4
Spergulana bocconii Sand spurry, Caryophyllaceae Introduced 1
Stack s bullata Hedge-nettle, Lamiaceae Native 1,3, 4
Stacks pycnantha Hedge-nettle, Lamiaceae Native 3
Stellaria media Chickweed Caryophyllaceae Introduced 1, 3
Stebbinsoseris Stebbinsoseris, Asteraceae Native 1, 4
heterocarpa
Ste hanomeria cichonacea Silver rock-lettuce Asteraceae Native 3
Stephanomeria exigua ssp. Slender rock-lettuce, Asteraceae Native 1
carotifera
Taraxacum officinale Dandelion Asteraceae Introduced 1, 3
Thermo sis macro h Ila False-lupine, Fabaceae Native 3
Torilis arvensis Hedge-parsley, A iaceae Introduced 1, 3
Torilis nodosus Knotted hedge-parsley, A iaceae Introduced 1, 3, 4
Tragcpogon porrifolius Salsify, Asteraceae Introduced 1, 3
Tnfolium fragiferum Strawberry clover, Fabaceae Introduced 3
Tnfolium hirtum Rose clover, Fabaceae Introduced 1
Tr folium s p Annual clover, Fabaceae Native 1, 4
Tro aeolum maws Garden nasturtium Tro aeolaceae Introduced 3
Urous lindle i Silver puffs, Asteraceae Native 1
Verbena lbsibstachys Vervain,Verbenaceae, Native 1,3, 4
Vicia sativa Vetch Fabaceae Introduced 1, 3, 4
Vicia villosa Vetch Fabaceae Introduced 1, 3
Viola pedunculata Johnny jump-up, Violaceae Native 1 3 4
Vu► is inicrostachys Annual fescue Poaceae Native 0
Vul ism uros Rattail fescue Poaceae Introduced 1, 3
Xanthium spinosum Clotbur, Asteraceae Native 1, 3
Xanthium strumanum Cocklebur Asteraceae Introduced 1
Birds
Scientific Name Common Name Comments Status Source
Acci iter coopen Coopers hawk Native 2 3
Acci iter stnatus Sharp-shinned hawk 3
A elaius phoeniceus Red-winged blackbird 3
Anas platyrhyrichos Mallard duck 3
A helocoma calitnmica Westem scrub-jay scrub—jay3,4
Aquila chrysaetos Golden eagle Native 3, 4
Bubo virginianus Great homed owl 314
Butriodes striates Green heron 3
Buteo lineatus Red-shouldered hawk Native 3, 4
Irish Hills Ecological Rase. -Biological Inventory
Buteo 'amaicensis Red-tailed hawk Native 394
Calli ala califomica California quail Native 3,4
Cafypte anna Anna's hummingbird 3,4
Carduelis psaffila Lesser goldfinch 374
Carduelis tristis American goldfinch 3,4
Carpodacus mexicanus House finch 3, 4
Car acus puroureus Purple finch 3
Cathartes aura Turkey vulture Native 3,4
Cath es mexicanus Canyon wren 4
Cer le alc on Belted kingfisher 3, 4
Chamaea fasciata Wrentit 3
Coccyzus americanus Western yellow-billed cuckoo Native 2
occidentalis
Cola tes auratus Northern flicker 3
Conto us sordidulus Western wood-pewee 4
Corvus brachyrhynchos American crow 3,4
Cyanocifto steAen Steller's jay 314
Dendroica coronata Yellow-rumped warbler 3
Dendroica ni rescens Black-throated gray warbler 3
Dendroica townsendii Townsend's warbler 3
Elanus leucurus White-tailed kite 4
Em idonax ditTici►is Pacific-slope flycatcher 3,4
Eu ha us cyanocephalus Brewer's blackbird 3,4
Fafco sparvedus American kestrel Native 3 4
Geococc califomianus Greater roadrunner 4
Geothl is trichas Common ellowthroat 3
Hirundo onta Cliff swallow 3,4
Icterus bullocki Bullock's oriole 3
Junco h emalis Dark-e ed junco 3, 4
Lanus ludovicianus Loggerhead shrike 3
Melaner es formicivorus Acorn woodpecker 3
Melospizalincolnii Lincoln's sparrow 3,4
Melon iza melodia Song sparrow 3
Mimes Polygloffis Northern mockingbird 3,4
Molothrus ater Brown-headed cowbird 3
M iarchus cinerascens Ash-throated flycatcher 3
Parus inomatus Plain titmouse 3,4
Parus rufescens Chestnut-backed chickadee 394
Passer domesticus House sparrow 3
Passerculus Savanna sparrow 3,4
sandwichensis
Passerella iliacs Fox sparrow 3
Phalaenoptilus nuttalli Common poorwill 3
Pheuetieusmelanoce halus Black-headed grosbeak 3
Picoides nuttallii Nuttall's woodpecker 3,4
Picoides pubescens Downey woodpecker 3,4
Pipilo crissalis California towhee 3,4
Pipilo etyMrophdw1mus S _-tted towhee 3,4
Polio _ ila.caerulea Blu"ray gnatcatcher 3,4
Psaltri ares minimus Bushtit 3,4
Regulus calendula Rub crowned kinglet 3,4
Sayomis nigricans Black phoebe 3,4
Seta hone sasin Allen's hummingbird 4*
Sifia mexicana Western bluebird 3
Sturnella neglecta Western meadowlark 3
s
Irish Hills Ecological Reserve—i gical Inventory O
Tach cineta bicolor Tree swallow 3
Tach cineta thalassina Violet-green swallow 3
Th manes bewickii Sewick's wren 3,4
Toxostoma redivivum California thrasher 4"
Troglodytes aedon House wren 3
Tyto alba Common barn-owl Native 3,4
Vermivora celata Orange-crowned warbler 3
Vireo huttoni Hutton's vireo 374
Wilsonia pusilla Wilson's warbler 3
Zenaida n►acroura Mourning dove Native 394
Zonotrichia atnca ilia Golden-crowned sparrow 3
Zonotnchia leuco h s White-crowned sparrow 3
Mammals
Scientific Name Common Name Comments Status Source
Canis latrans Coyote 3,4
Didelphis virginiana Virginia opossum 314
Dipodomys heemani Morro Bay kangaroo rat Native 2
morroensis
Pe nathus califomicus California pocket mouse 3
Peromyscus boytei Brush mouse 3,4
Perom sous califomicus California mouse 314
Peromyscus maniculatus Deer mouse 3,4
Proc n lotor Raccoon 314
Rheithrodontom s megalotis Western harvest mouse 3
Scapanus latimanus Broad-footed mole 3
Sorex ornatus Ornate shrew 2
Lasiurus borealis Red bat 3
Lasiurus cinereas Hoary bat 3
Lynx rufus Bobcat 3,4
Mephids mephids Striped skunk 3, 4
Microtus californicus California vole 3
Mustella frenata Long-tailed weasel 3
M otis volans Long-legged m otis 3
Neotorm fusel es Dusky-footed woodrat 3,4
Odocoileus herfonus Mule deer 394
Sciurus gnseus Western gray squirrel 3, 4
S ermo hilus beeche i California groundsquirrel 3,4
SyWagus bachmani Brush rabbit 3,4
Tadanda brasiliensis Brazilian free-tailed bat 3
Thomom s bottae Botta's pocket gopher 3,4
Urocyon cinereoargenteus Gray fox 3,4
Amphibians
Scientific Name Common Name Comments Status _Source
Amedes lu ubris Arboreal salamander 3
Batrachoseps ni riventris Black-bellied slender salamander 3
Bufo boreas Western toad 3
Ensatina eschscholtzii Ensatina 3
Hyla regilla Pacific treefrog 4
Tancha torosa California newt 3
9
Irish Hills Ecological Reser _,�-Biological Inventory
Re tiles
ScienWeName Common Name Comments Status Source
Anniella pulchra California legless lizard 3
Channa bottae Rubber boa 3
Clemm s marmorata Western pond turtle 334
Coluber constrictor Racer 3
Crotalus viridis Westem rattlesnake Native 3,4
Diado his punctalaus Rin neck snake 314
EI aria mukicarinatus Southern alligator lizard 3,4
Eumeces skiltonianus Western skink 3
Lam ro ekis getulus Common kin snake 3,41
Mastrcophis lateralis California whipsnake 3
Phrynosoma coronatum Coast horned lizard 3
PiWo his melanoleucus Gopher snake 3 4
Scelo onus occidentalis Western fence lizard 3,4
Thamno his couchii Western aquatic garter snake 3
Thamno his elegans Western terrestrial garter snake 3
Thamno his sirtalis Common garter snake 3
Uta stansbunana Side-blotched lizard 3
Fish
cienlWc Name. Common_Name. . _ __ COMM-ents _ Status Source
Onchorhynchus mykss Rainbow/Steelhead trout Native 4
Rhinichthys oscu/us Speckled dace I Native 4
Invertebrates
Scientific Name._- _ _ _._ _ ConFmon Name - Comments Status Source
Dananus Lexi us Monarch butterfly 4
Polyphylla nubile Atascadero polVphylian scarab beetle Native 2
Helminthoglypta Morro shoulderband snail Native 2,4
walkeriana
Hemi sis s Tarantula wasp 4
S e eria callippe Callippee fritillary butterfl 4
References
1 —Prefumo Creek Homes Development—Final EIR (1996)
2—Irish Hill Golf Course and Homesites Development—Preliminary Draft EIR (1990).
3—DeVaul Ranch Planned Development—Final EIR (1998)
4—Fie 16 observation by City Staff or biological consultant.
10
o 10
council memoizAnbum
icity of san Luis oats o, aatnmist"tion btztm t
DATE: July 19,2011 RED FILE
TO: City Council MEETING AGENDA
FROM: Neil Havlik,Natural Resources nager DATE a' 1 ITEM #-j23-
VIA:
Q3VIA: Katie Lichtig,City Manager
SUBJECT: Irish Hills Natural Reserve Conservation Plan Update and Froom Ranch Annexation
Councilmember Ashbaugh has inquired as to a memorandum received from Mr. Ben Parker, a City resident and
a former staff person with the California Division of Forestry, regarding annexation of the Irish Hills Natural
Reserve (IHNR). Staff is aware of Mr. Parker's concerns, and the matter of annexation of the Froom Ranch
portion of IHNR is one of the items that will be considered in the Land Use Update for the City, which is
scheduled to get under way later this year.
Proper management of City-owned open space lands is not affected by whether those lands are within the city
limits or not; rather it is determined by the policies contained in the City's Open Space and Conservation
Element and the "Conservation Guidelines for City-Owned Open 'Space Lands" documents. Therefore the
matter of annexation was not considered relevant to the decision about proper management and recreational
development of IHNR, and it was not included in the Update.
Mr. Parker's concern about the cost of wildfire suppression shifting from the State to the City upon annexation
is understood by city staff, and that is the reason why, as part of the Land Use Plan Update mentioned above,
city staff will be looking in detail at this and other matters associated with annexation of open space lands.
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Page 1 of 1
todron, Michael
From: Ashbaugh,John
Sent: Tuesday, July 19,2011 8:43 AM
To: Lichtig, Katie
Cc: Codron, Michael; Havlik, Neil;Hines, Charlie; sloparker.ben@gmail.com
Subject: FW: Draft Irish Hills Natural Reserve(IHNR) Conservation Plan Update
Since I'm not sure whether Ben cc'd staff with this communication, I'd like to make sure you
have received it and will respond to his concerns. Looking through the Conservation Plan, I
could find no specific reference either to current city limits or any proposal to annex lands within
the IHNR. Did I miss something? Should we add or subtract language at this point so that our
intent with respect to sharing wildland fire responsibility with the state is completely clear?
Thanks!
John B. Ashbaugh
San Luis Obispo City Council
From: Ben Parker[sloparker.ben@gmail.com]
Sent:Tuesday,July 19, 2011 1:59 AM
To: Marx,Jan
Cc: Ashbaugh,John; Carter, Andrew; Smith, Kathy; Carpenter, Dan
Subject: Draft Irish Hills Natural Reserve(IHNR)Conservation Plan Update
Dear Mayor Marx,
I am aware that the City is currently involved in the update of the Draft Irish Hills Natural
Reserve Conservation Plan.
I would like to comment on the open space policies that the City currently has. San Luis Obispo
has had a progressive program of open space acquisition and protection and the Council and staff
are to be commended for this. However, part of the acquisition process that has occurred
concerns me. Specifically the incorporation of open space lands that were previously outside the
City limits. When the City incorporates these previously "State Responsibility Area" lands the
land becomes "Local Responsibility Area" and the City of San Luis Obispo becomes responsible
for wildland fire protection. If the City assumes ownership and management responsibility but
the lands remain outside the incorporated City then the State remains fiscally responsible for fire
protection of this righteously wildland area.
A fire in an area like the Irish Hills Natural Reserve could become a significant financial liability
to the City, a two-day ,200 acre wildland fire with aircraft support could easily approach$1
million or more. There are mutual aid and other aggreements like the "Seven Points of Light"
that provide some assistance but may not always be available to the City.
The City can acquire open space ownership and control but leave the area in unincorporated
status and leave the financial liability for fire protection with the State.
Please email me if I can provide more information regarding these comments.
Ben Parker
4423 Poinsettia St.
San Luis Obispo,Ca 93401
sloparker.ben(a).emai I.com
7/19/2011
From: Ben Parker (sloparker.ben@gmail.com]
Sent: Tuesday, July 19, 2011 1:59 AM
To: Marx, Jan
Cc: Ashbaugh, John; Carter, Andrew; Smith, Kathy; Carpenter, Dan
Subject: Draft Irish Hills Natural Reserve (IHNR) Conservation Plan
Update
Dear Mayor Marx,
I am aware that the City is currently involved in the update of the
Draft Irish Hills Natural Reserve Conservation Plan.
I would like to comment on the open space policies that the City
currently has. San Luis Obispo has had a progressive program of open
space acquisition and protection and the Council and staff are to be
commended for this. However, part of the acquisition process that has
occurred concerns me. Specifically the incorporation of open space
lands that were previously outside the City limits. When the City
incorporates these previously "State Responsibility Area" lands the
land becomes "Local Responsibility Area" and the City of San Luis
Obispo becomes responsible for wildland fire protection. If the City
assumes ownership and management responsibility but the lands remain
outside the incorporated City then the State remains fiscally
responsible for fire protection of this righteously wildland area.
A fire in an area like the. Irish Hills Natural Reserve could become a
significant financial liability to the City, a two-day , 200 acre
wildland fire with aircraft support could easily approach $1 million or
more. There are mutual aid and other aggreements like the "Seven Points
of Light" that provide some assistance but may not always be available
to the City.
The City can acquire open space ownership and control but leave the
area in unincorporated status and leave the financial liability for
fire protection with the State.
Please email me if I can provide more information regarding these
comments.
Ben Parker
4423 Poinsettia St.
San Luis Obispo, Ca 93401
hard covr. emmh
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